If you have a passion for the outdoors and a knack for working with trees, starting a tree service business could be an exciting and profitable opportunity. The tree care industry is growing quickly — increasing demand for residential and commercial landscaping, storm damage cleanup, and routine tree maintenance are all driving this growth. 

Want proof? The U.S. tree trimming services market has grown at an annual rate of 5.8% over the past five years, with an estimated value of $35.6 billion in 2025 (IBIS World). The sector is expected to continue expanding as property owners prioritize maintenance and sustainability.​

Owning a tree service business offers some serious advantages:

• High demand: Trees require care throughout the year, from winter pruning to summer storm cleanup.​
• Profit potential: Depending on your location and specialization, annual earnings can range from $50,000 to over $200,000 (Profitable Venture). ​
• Be your own boss: Enjoy the flexibility to set your schedule, select clients, and build a business that matches your lifestyle.​

This is all great, but starting a tree service business involves more than just using a chainsaw. To be successful, you’ll need to plan strategically, follow industry regulations, and invest in the right tools — both in the field and in the office. 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of building a profitable tree service business. Let’s jump in.​

Understanding the tree service industry

Before you launch your new company, it’s important to understand the types of services you can offer and the trends shaping the tree service industry.

5 common tree services

Tree pruning and trimming are common tree services. (Source)

Tree care businesses provide a range of services, including:

• Pruning and trimming: Regular maintenance to improve tree health and visual appeal.
• Tree removal: Cutting down dead or hazardous trees.
• Stump grinding: Removing leftover stumps after tree removal.
• Emergency storm cleanup: Responding to tree damage caused by storms and natural disasters.
• Planting and transplanting: Helping homeowners and businesses establish new trees.

Offering a variety of services can help you stay busy throughout the year and maximize your income.

Seasonal demand and market trends

Tree care is a seasonal business, with peak demand in the spring and summer months. Homeowners want their trees to look good before storm season, and municipalities often schedule large-scale maintenance projects during these months. 

That doesn’t mean that winter is a dead zone, though. Pruning during the cold, dormant months is beneficial for many tree species, and emergency removals happen year-round.

Two current trends in the tree service industry include: 

• Eco-friendly tree care: Clients are seeking sustainable services, such as organic pesticides and pest control, and tree preservation rather than removal. 
• Technology adoption: More tree service companies are using software to manage scheduling, invoices, and customer communication, helping significantly streamline operations. This is where tree service management tools like GorillaDesk come in, enabling business owners to automate and simplify operations and stay better organized.

Developing a business plan

A solid business plan is the foundation of any successful business. This written document typically outlines your company’s goals, target market, services, financial projections, and strategies for launching and growing your business. Here’s what to consider when starting a tree service business.

Define your business model and services

First, decide which services you want to offer. Some options include:

• Residential tree care
• Commercial contracts
• Municipal projects 

Then think about what your scope of services will be: 

• Year-round services like full-service tree care 
• One-time services like emergency tree removals or storm clean-up

Whether you plan to offer recurring services like quarterly tree care or one-time emergency services, this will determine your business model — and from there, you can figure out your pricing, equipment needs, and marketing strategy.

Conduct market research

Before launching, take time to research your local market. Think about:

• Who are your competitors? Identify existing tree service providers in your area and analyze their pricing and services.
• Who are your ideal customers? Residential homeowners, property managers, HOAs, and government contracts all present different opportunities.
• What’s the demand like? Some areas may experience a shortage of tree services, while others may be highly competitive. 

This information will help you make informed decisions to ensure your business is competitive from the outset.

Set short-term and long-term goals

Reflect on what you want to accomplish in your business. Then outline clear business objectives:

• Short-term goals: For example, book your first 10 clients, break even within six months, and invest in basic equipment.
• Long-term goals: Expand to a second service area, hire a full-time crew, and generate six-figure revenue.

Develop financial projections and a budget

Wood chippers and tree trimming trucks need to be factored into your budget. (Source)

Now that you have a good foundation for your business, it’s time to invest in the right tools. Starting a tree service business comes with some upfront costs, like:

• Equipment: Chainsaws, ropes, harnesses, stump grinders, wood chippers, and trucks ($10,000–$50,000+ depending on scale).
• Licensing and insurance: Varies by state, but you can expect to spend at least $2,000 to $5,000 per year.
• Marketing: Website, local advertising, business cards, and branded uniforms (over $ 1,000).

The costs for marketing could be much higher, depending on whether you hire professionals to help you. Doing it yourself to start (using premade website templates, etc.) will be more cost-effective. Then, you can always invest more in marketing down the line once your business gets off the ground. 

With an idea of your ballpark costs, now you can project your monthly expenses and potential revenue. These details will ensure that you price your services profitably.

Legal considerations and compliance

As with most businesses, there are a few legal hoops to jump through when you’re getting started. Make the best choice for you now, while also considering your long-term business plans, so that you have a strong legal foundation and are well-positioned for growth from the Outset.

Register your business entity

To operate legally, you’ll need to register your business. Common structures include:

• Sole proprietorship: Easy to set up, but it doesn’t offer liability protection, which is very important for tree service businesses that involve some safety risks.
• LLC (Limited Liability Company): Often the preferred business structure for small business owners, an LLC provides personal asset protection and tax flexibility.
• Corporation: Ideal for larger businesses, but comes with more regulations, and you will likely need help in navigating the legal requirements.

Check with your state’s business registration office to complete this step.

Obtain necessary licenses and permits

Obtaining your arborist certification is an excellent way to build credibility. (Source)

Tree service businesses often require specific licenses. While other certifications are optional, it’s worth considering obtaining them because they can help establish credibility for your business. Common licenses include:

• Arborist certification: Optional, but it can be very beneficial for credibility.
• Tree removal permits: Requirements vary by city and state, so do your research.
• General business license from your local government: This is always required. 

Understand local, state, and federal regulations

Generally, there are minimal regulations governing tree service businesses. But regulations vary, so make sure to check the rules in your area around:

• Environmental laws: Some states require special permits for tree removal in protected areas.
• OSHA safety requirements: If you’re hiring employees, you must comply with federal safety standards for climbing and equipment use.

Insurance requirements

Tree care comes with certain safety hazards, so insurance is a must. Key policies include:

• General liability insurance: Protects your business if a tree falls on a house or vehicle.
• Workers’ compensation: Covers the costs associated with employee injuries (required if you have a crew).
• Commercial auto insurance: Covers company vehicles used for transporting equipment.

Most tree service companies spend between $3,000 and $10,000 per year on insurance, depending on coverage levels. Having the right policies in place protects your business and reassures clients that you’re running a professional, upstanding company.

Securing financing

When people think about how to start a tree service business, they often don’t think about the full financial investment that it requires. If you can’t cover the funds yourself, then securing funding is a crucial step. First, estimate your startup costs (calculated above), which may range from $10,000 for a small operation to over $100,000 for a fully equipped team with trucks, lifts, and commercial insurance. Equipment, insurance, and marketing will be your biggest initial expenses.

Common funding options include: 

• Small business loans
• Equipment financing
• Grants for new businesses/small businesses 

If you have personal savings, using some of those funds to cover initial costs can help reduce debt. Managing cash flow effectively from the start will enable you to handle unexpected expenses, like emergency repairs or seasonal downturns. Consider using a financial tracking tool or accounting software to stay on top of your revenue and expenses.

A small business loan is one financing option when starting a tree service business. (Source)

Acquiring equipment and tools

Having the right equipment is essential for running a professional tree service business. At a minimum, you’ll need: 

• Chainsaws
• Safety glasses
• Safety helmets
• Climbing gear
• Safety harnesses
• Ropes
• Stump grinder(s)
• Wood chipper(s)
• Trucks for hauling debris

When deciding between new and used equipment, think about your budget and the long-term costs of maintenance. While used equipment can save money upfront, it may require more frequent repairs in the long run. 

Another option to consider is whether to rent some equipment in the beginning until you save up enough money to purchase higher-priced items like stump grinders or bucket trucks. While this can be a useful short-term solution, keep in mind that rental costs can add up quickly, and availability may be limited during peak seasons. Many new business owners choose a hybrid approach — buying essential tools and renting larger machinery as needed.

Regardless of what avenue you choose, regular equipment maintenance is key. Dull chainsaws and malfunctioning lifts can slow down jobs and create safety hazards.

Safety should be a top priority when working with tree service equipment. Make sure to: 

1. Implement strict equipment maintenance protocols.
2. Provide proper training for employees on handling machinery. 

OSHA guidelines for tree care operations require safety gear like helmets, gloves, and eye protection to minimize risks on the job. Make sure you and every employee use all required personal protective equipment (PPE) for your industry.

Building a skilled team

Even if you’re starting solo, growing your tree service business will eventually require hiring a team. A skilled crew improves your company’s efficiency, safety, and customer satisfaction. These three steps will get your tree services team started off on the right foot.

1) Hire qualified arborists and support staff

When it comes to building a team, start small with the essential personnel, and hire additional staff as your company grows. Your team may include:

• Certified arborists: Professionals trained in tree health, disease management, and advanced pruning techniques.
• Tree climbers: Skilled workers who can safely ascend trees to perform trimming and removals.
• Ground crew: Workers responsible for hauling branches, operating wood chippers, and ensuring safety on-site.
• Office staff: If your business expands, an office manager or administrative assistant can handle scheduling, invoicing, and customer service.

Look for employees with prior experience in tree care, landscaping, or construction. Offering on-the-job training can also help new hires develop essential skills and ensure that they follow the standards you’ve established for your company.

On-the-job training gives employees a strong start in your tree service business. (Source)

2) Run training programs and require certifications

Investing in proper training keeps your team safe and professional. We recommend requiring your workers to maintain certifications such as:

• ISA Certified Arborist: Offered by the International Society of Arboriculture, this certification enhances credibility.
• OSHA Safety Training: Covers essential workplace safety guidelines.
• CPR and First Aid Certification: Essential in an industry where injuries can happen.

If you hire entry-level workers who don’t yet have these certifications, you can also offer incentives or professional development resources to complete their certifications as part of their employment. 

Run new employee training as well as ongoing training whenever you invest in new equipment. Make sure to teach your team proper: 

• Climbing techniques
• Rigging
• Equipment handling
• Chainsaw safety 

This type of on-the-job training helps keep your team members safe and protects your high-cost equipment and tools.

Ongoing education can set your business apart and enable you to take on more specialized jobs, such as hazardous tree removal, pest management, or tree health assessments, giving you a competitive edge in the market. 

3) Establish a positive company culture

A strong company culture makes it easier for you to attract and retain top talent. To achieve this, it is essential to cultivate an environment that prioritizes teamwork, safety, and professionalism. Other efforts that can help boost employee morale include offering:

• Competitive wages
• Performance bonuses
• Safety incentives 

Happy employees lead to better service, which keeps customers coming back.

Marketing and branding strategies

You can have the best tree service in town, but without a solid marketing plan, customers won’t know you exist. A strong brand identity and digital marketing strategy will help you stand out.

Create a professional brand identity

A dependable tree service brand conveys professionalism and reliability. To convey a professional image, consider:

• A memorable business name and logo.
• Branded uniforms and vehicle wraps for a polished look.
• A clear mission statement that emphasizes safety, quality, and customer service.

Develop a user-friendly website with SEO optimization

An attention-grabbing website with clear call-to-actions and keywords is essential. (Source)

A professional website is a must. Effective websites for tree care companies usually include:

• A list of services with clear descriptions.
• Customer testimonials and reviews.
• An easy-to-find contact form or booking option for quick scheduling.
• SEO optimization with keywords like “tree service near me” to attract local customers. 

Utilize digital marketing

Online marketing is one of the most cost-effective ways to attract clients. Key strategies include:

• Social media marketing: Create social media accounts on popular platforms, such as Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Post tree care tips, before-and-after photos, and customer testimonials to increase awareness of your brand. Use hashtags and keywords, and tag your geographical location to help users nearby find you.
• Google Business Profile: Claiming and optimizing your Google Business Profile enhances visibility in local searches, making it easier for nearby customers to find you.
• Email campaigns: From monthly email newsletters to promotional emails, email marketing is a great way to keep current customers engaged and re-engage previous customers. Consider sending seasonal reminders for pruning and storm prep services.

Network with local businesses and get involved in the community 

Forming relationships with people in your local community can help create a buzz for your business. Word-of-mouth referrals are especially powerful, and the more people know about your company, the more likely you are to get referrals. Consider:

• Partnering with landscapers, realtors, and property managers for cross-referrals.
• Attending home improvement expos and professional networking events.
• Sponsoring community events or offering free educational tree care workshops.

Pricing your services

Setting the right pricing structure helps keep your business profitable while remaining competitive in the market. Follow these steps for effective pricing:

Research competitor pricing structures

Check out other tree service businesses in your area to get a feel for standard rates. Factors that influence pricing include:

• Job complexity: Whether you’re removing a small tree vs. performing large hazardous removals.
• Equipment and labor requirements: Does the job require a bucket trump and stump grinder, or just pruning shears?
• Geographic location and seasonal demand: Pricing should be adjusted to the average cost of living in your area, and may be tweaked for seasonality as needed. 

Determine pricing models

Choose a pricing strategy that fits your business model. This will largely depend on the nature of the services you offer.

• Hourly rates: Common for jobs like trimming and pruning ($75–$200 per hour, depending on complexity).
• Flat fees: Best for stump grinding and tree removal (Removal runs $300–$2,000+ on average, based on tree size; stump grinding adds $120–$400 per stump).
• Emergency service surcharges: Additional fees can be added for after-hours or storm-related services.
• Full-service tree care packages: Ideal for large residences, commercial properties, or HOAs, these contracts offer year-round maintenance (pruning, inspections, storm prep, etc.) at a flat monthly or seasonal rate.

You may choose a hybrid approach, offering hourly fees for certain services and flat rates for others. You’re in charge, so do what makes the most sense for your business.

Offer estimates and quotes to clients

Transparent pricing builds trust with customers. Provide free estimates and clearly outline:

• The scope of work.
• Potential extra costs (e.g., stump grinding, haul-away fees).
• Expected timeline for job completion.

Send quick estimates from the field with GorillaDesk’s mobile app 

Using GorillaDesk, you can generate and send professional estimates quickly, improving client communication and closing more deals.

Implementing operational procedures

Running a smooth tree service business means scheduling efficiently, providing excellent customer service, and taking a proactive approach to handling feedback. Make sure to:

Schedule and dispatch jobs efficiently

Managing job schedules effectively can make or break your business. A well-organized calendar prevents double bookings, reduces travel time between job sites, and ensures your crew stays productive. 

Using job management software like GorillaDesk can help automate scheduling, send reminders to customers, and optimize your team’s routes for efficiency.

GorillaDesk automates scheduling, routing, and more. 

Follow customer service best practices

Your reputation depends on how you interact with customers. Always:

• Be professional, friendly, and transparent about pricing and timelines.
• Arrive on time and notify us if any delays occur.
• Follow up after jobs to ensure customer satisfaction.

Having one central system like GorillaDesk for all your customer data — from service schedules, to invoices, to follow-up communication — helps ensure consistency and professionalism to uphold the highest customer service standards at all times.

Handle customer feedback and complaints professionally

Even the best businesses receive complaints. The key is to handle them professionally and in a timely manner. We recommend:

• Listening actively and acknowledging the customer’s concerns.
• Offering solutions, whether it’s a discount, redoing the job, or simply an apology.
• Using negative feedback as an opportunity to improve your services.

Ensuring safety and compliance

Tree care is a high-risk industry, so maintaining strict safety protocols is essential for protecting your team and your business.

Adhere to OSHA standards and guidelines

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets strict regulations for tree care businesses. Compliance helps prevent injuries and avoid hefty fines. Some key OSHA standards include:

• Providing personal protective equipment (PPE) like helmets, gloves, and eye protection to all employees.
• Ensuring employees are trained in proper climbing and chainsaw techniques.
• Following safe lifting and rigging practices for heavy branches.

Conduct regular safety training sessions

Regular training keeps employees prepared for potential hazards. Hold monthly safety meetings to cover topics like:

• Proper chainsaw handling and maintenance.
• Climbing techniques and rope safety.
• Emergency procedures for falls, power line contact, and injuries.

Learning proper chainsaw handling techniques is critical for tree service business employees. (Source).

Implement emergency response plans

Accidents happen, so it’s important for your team to have a plan. At a minimum, make sure that:

• Every job site has a first-aid kit and someone trained in CPR.
• Employees know emergency phone numbers and hospital locations.
• You have a procedure for reporting and documenting accidents.

Utilizing technology and software

Technology can make a world of difference in streamlining your operations, saving you time and money, and freeing you up to focus on growing your business. There are various types of tools to simplify and automate your operations.

Business management software

Managing appointments, invoices, and customer records manually can be overwhelming. A comprehensive business management tool like GorillaDesk helps with:

• Automated scheduling and dispatching.
• Customer relationship management (CRM) to track and communicate with clients.
• Billing and invoicing to keep cash flow steady.

GPS and routing tools 

Fuel costs and time on the road can add up quickly. Using GPS tracking and routing software — like the features built into GorillaDesk — can:

• Optimize travel routes to reduce drive time.
• Assign the closest crew to last-minute job requests.
• Prevent unnecessary mileage and fuel expenses.

Online invoicing and payment processing systems

Getting paid on time is crucial. To encourage timely payments, offer online payment options like credit cards, ACH transfers, and mobile payments. Digital invoicing platforms like GorillaDesk can send automated reminders for outstanding payments and provide customers with easy, one-click payment options.

GorillaDesk’s invoicing capabilities help you get paid faster. 

Scaling and growing your business

Once your tree service business is up and running, it’s time to think about expanding your footprint — from offering new services to moving into an additional market.

Expand your service offerings

Diversifying your services can attract new customers. Consider adding:

• Landscaping and tree planting services.
• Tree health assessments using arborist techniques.
• Storm damage contracts with local municipalities.

Enter new markets or regions

If demand is high, you might consider expanding to new neighborhoods, cities, or even states. Start by:

• Researching local competition and pricing in new areas.
• Hiring additional staff or subcontractors.
• Investing in marketing efforts to reach new customers.

Form strategic partnerships

Collaborating with other businesses can open new opportunities. Build relationships with:

• Landscapers who may refer customers needing tree care.
• Real estate agents looking to improve curb appeal.
• Property management companies that need ongoing tree maintenance.

Continuous improvement through customer feedback

To successfully scale your business, it’s important to continually refine what you already do. Regularly collect customer feedback — through customer reviews and one-on-one follow-ups — and adjust your processes to improve efficiency, service quality, and customer satisfaction.

Take the first step in starting a tree service business

Starting a tree service business in 2025 is an exciting and rewarding venture. With strong demand and a growing market, there are plenty of opportunities for success.

To recap, the key steps to getting started include:

1. Understanding the industry and identifying your niche.
2. Developing a solid business plan with clear financial projections.
3. Ensuring compliance with licenses, insurance, and safety regulations.
4. Investing in technology to streamline scheduling, payments, and operations.
5. Scaling your business by expanding services and forming strategic partnerships.

Most importantly, be consistent, professional, and customer-focused. With a strong brand reputation, your business will be more likely to grow through word-of-mouth referrals.

If you’re ready to take the first step, GorillaDesk can help. Start a free trial today to see how our tree service management platform can simplify your business operations from Day One.