How much does tree removal cost in Alpharetta?+
Most single-tree removals fall between about $200 and $2,000. National data puts the average around $750 (Angi, 2026). Four things drive the price most. Height: under 30 ft runs about $150–$450, and over 80 ft about $1,000–$2,000+. Access: a backyard tree that bucket trucks can't reach has to be climbed and lowered in pieces. Closeness to the house, fences or power lines: more rigging and risk mean more cost. Stump and cleanup: often priced separately. Get at least two written quotes for the same scope.
Will my homeowners insurance pay to remove a tree?+
Usually only if a covered peril, such as wind, lightning, hail or the weight of ice, knocks the tree onto an insured structure like your house, garage or fence. In that case the structural damage is covered, and removal is typically capped at about $500–$1,000 per event, not per tree. A tree that falls in the yard without hitting anything generally isn't covered, though some policies pay if it blocks your driveway. Removing a healthy or dying tree before it falls is maintenance and isn't covered (Insurance Information Institute). Check your own policy's debris-removal limit and photograph everything before work starts.
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Alpharetta?+
Often, yes. For detached single-family homes, the City of Alpharetta requires a tree removal permit to remove any living tree. Dead or already-fallen trees don't need one, but photograph them for your records. Replacement trees may be required. "Specimen" trees (large trees, e.g. pines of about 30 in. diameter and most hardwoods of about 24 in.) are generally approved for removal only if they're in declining health, backed by a professional risk assessment. Trees in imminent danger of falling can be removed without waiting for a permit, but the city asks you to photograph them and notify it. Apply online, or contact the City Arborist at 678-297-6229 / [email protected] to confirm your situation (City of Alpharetta). Your HOA may have separate rules.
A neighbor's tree fell on my property. Who pays?+
In most cases you file with your own homeowners insurance for damage to your property, even when the tree was your neighbor's, and you pay your deductible. If the tree was visibly dead or diseased and your neighbor knew or should have known, your insurer may try to recover the cost from your neighbor's insurer (called subrogation), and you may get your deductible back (III). If you're worried about a neighbor's tree now, tell them in writing and keep a copy. For disputes over liability, talk to your insurer or a Georgia attorney.
A storm just brought a tree down. What should I do first?+
Get everyone out of the area under damaged limbs, and stay at least 30 ft away from any downed or sagging power line and anything touching it, including the tree, a fence or puddles. Assume every line is live. If a tree is on or against a power line, call your electric utility (for many Alpharetta homes that's Georgia Power), and call 911 if anyone is hurt or a line is sparking. Don't try to cut it yourself. Then photograph the damage for insurance, and request removal quotes once the utility has made any lines safe.
Is the stump and haul-away included in the price?+
Not always, so ask. Many quotes cover cutting the tree down only, and stump grinding, hauling away logs and brush, and raking out wood chips are listed separately. Before you accept, make sure the written quote spells out: stump grinding (and how deep), whether the wood is hauled off or left cut to length, cleanup of the lawn and beds, and any damage protection for driveways and lawns. Comparing quotes with the same scope is the only fair comparison.
