Average Cost of Tree Services

When property owners in Paso Robles or San Luis Obispo start planning tree work, one of the first questions is: “What’s the average cost of tree services around here?” At 4th Generation Tree, we’re upfront about pricing. While every tree and property is unique, these average ranges will help you budget before scheduling a free estimate.

Fruit Tree Pruning Costs

Average Cost: $100–$300 per fruit tree

Fruit trees like apple, peach, plum, and citrus benefit from seasonal pruning to stay productive and safe. Smaller yard trees usually sit near the lower end, while mature orchard trees with dense branching fall toward the higher side.

Olive Tree Care Costs

Average Cost: $400–$600 per olive tree

Olive trees are iconic across Paso Robles vineyards and San Luis Obispo landscapes. Dense canopies require selective thinning for airflow and weight reduction, especially on older specimens.

Palm Tree Trimming Costs

Average Cost: Around $400 per palm tree

Palm trimming requires climbing gear, special techniques, and legal licensing. Unlike most companies in San Luis Obispo County, 4th Generation Tree holds a C-49 Tree & Palm License, which qualifies us to perform advanced palm maintenance and removals safely and professionally.

Oak Tree Service Costs

Average Cost: Around $1,200 per oak tree

Oaks are iconic in San Luis Obispo County and require certified arborist care. Costs depend heavily on diameter, canopy spread, slope, and hazards like nearby structures or power lines.

Stump Grinding Costs

Average Cost: Around $225 per stump

Grinding removes stumps below grade to clear space for replanting or construction. Pricing depends on diameter, depth, and wood hardness, but $225 is the typical average for most residential jobs.

Brush Chipping Costs

Average Cost: Around $400

Brush chipping is popular for fire-safe defensible space. Instead of hauling, debris is chipped on-site into mulch. Pricing depends on brush volume, pile size, and accessibility.

Tree Spraying & Plant Health Care Costs

Average Cost: $6.75 per inch of trunk diameter, per chemical

Plant Health Care (PHC) is critical for long-term tree health. Treatments include fungicides, insecticides, and nutrient sprays, applied based on tree size.

Example: A 20-inch DBH oak treated with one chemical = about $135.

Multiple treatments may be recommended depending on pests or disease pressure.

These services prevent common Central Coast issues like oak moth infestations, fungal infections, and nutrient deficiencies.

Emergency Tree Removal Costs

Average Cost: $1,500–$3,500

Emergency removals are more expensive due to risk, equipment needs, and off-hour response. Costs vary depending on tree size, location, and hazards (such as storm damage near structures).

Factors That Affect Tree Service Costs

Tree Size & Species – Larger hardwoods like oaks require more time and equipment.

Access & Terrain – Steep slopes, fences, and tight spaces can affect setup.

Hazards – Trees near houses, roads, or power lines demand extra precautions.

Disposal Options – Leaving wood or chips on-site lowers costs compared to hauling.

Location – Paso Robles vineyards, San Luis Obispo neighborhoods, and coastal communities each come with unique site conditions and permit requirements.

Why Choose 4th Generation Tree

We’re one of the few companies in San Luis Obispo County that combines ISA Certified Arborist expertise, a CSLB Tree Service license, and a specialized C-49 Tree & Palm License. That means we’re legally qualified for technical palm work, large oak removals, and advanced tree spraying that many competitors cannot offer.

Licensed Contractor (CSLB #906700)

ISA Certified Arborist (WE-12338A)

C-49 Tree & Palm Licensed — rare in California tree care

Specialized Equipment for everything from stump grinding to brush chipping

Decades of Local Experience serving Paso Robles, San Luis Obispo, and the Central Coast

Don’t guess at costs — get a free on-site estimate today. Whether you need fruit trees pruned in Paso Robles, palms trimmed in San Luis Obispo, or plant health care treatments across your ranch or vineyard, 4th Generation Tree delivers expert service at fair, transparent prices.