Professional Tree Removal Services in Madison, Wisconsin
Williams Tree Maintenance has safely removed trees across Madison and Dane County since 1995. Our ISA-certified arborists handle everything from dying ash trees to storm-damaged oaks, with crane service available for difficult removals near structures.
Call (608) 448-8312) for a free estimate or 24/7 emergency service.
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Common Reasons for Tree Removal in Madison
Oak Wilt
This devastating fungal disease kills oak trees rapidly in Madison's neighborhoods. Infected trees must be removed completely, including the stump, to prevent spreading to nearby oaks through root grafts.
Storm Damage
Wisconsin's severe thunderstorms, ice storms, and heavy snow regularly damage trees. When a tree loses major limbs or develops a dangerous lean, removal is often safer than attempting to save it.
Too Close to Structures
Many older Madison neighborhoods have mature trees planted decades ago that now threaten foundations, roofs, or driveways. Removal and replanting is sometimes the only practical solution.
Emerald Ash Borer (EAB)
Thousands of ash trees in Dane County have died from EAB infestation. Dead ash trees become brittle and dangerous, requiring prompt removal.
Dead or Dying Trees
Dead trees are unpredictable liabilities. Brittle wood can fail suddenly, causing property damage or injury.
Tree Removal Cost in Madison
Most tree removals in Madison range from $800 to $3,500, depending on size, location, and complexity:
Small Trees (under 30 feet)
$500 - $1,200
Small Trees (under 30 feet)
$1,200 - $2,500
Large Trees (60-80 feet)
$2,500 - $4,500
Very Large Trees (80+ feet)
$4,500 - $8,000+
Crane-assisted Removal
Add $1,000 - $2,500
Emergency Service
1.5-2x standard rates
Our pricing includes complete removal, stump grinding 6-12 inches below grade, and all cleanup and debris hauling. Trees near houses or power lines cost more due to careful piece-by-piece dismantling required.
Emergency Tree Removal
We provide 24/7 emergency service throughout Madison and Dane County with typical response times under 2 hours. If a tree has fallen on your property or creates a dangerous situation, call (608) 448-8312) immediately.
Important: If a tree contacts power lines, call Madison Gas & Electric first at (608) 252-7222, then call us once MGE secures the lines.
Madison Tree Removal Permits
You generally don't need a permit to remove trees on private property in Madison. However, trees in the terrace (between sidewalk and street) are city property and require a permit from Madison Forestry at (608) 266-4816. Historic district properties may also have restrictions.
Why Choose Williams Tree Maintenance
30+ years Serving Madison
We know the neighborhoods, tree species, and local regulations
ISA-Certified Arborists
Professional training and industry best practices
Fully Insured
Comprehensive liability and workers' compensation coverage
Crane Service Available
For difficult removals near structures
Complete Cleanup
Stump grinding and debris removal included
Free Written Estimates
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does tree removal cost in Madison?
Average cost is $800-$3,500. Small trees (under 30 feet) cost $500-$1,200. Medium trees (30-60 feet) run $1,200-$2,500. Large trees (60-80 feet) cost $2,500-$4,500. Very large trees over 80 feet can cost $4,500-$8,000+. Price depends on size, location, and access for equipment.
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Madison?
No permit is required for trees on private property in most cases. Terrace trees (between sidewalk and street) are city property and require a permit from Madison Forestry at (608) 266-4816. Historic districts may have additional restrictions.
When is the best time to remove a tree in Wisconsin?
Dead or hazardous trees should be removed immediately. Winter is often ideal because frozen ground protects your lawn. For oak trees, avoid April through June when beetles that spread oak wilt are most active. Otherwise, any season works fine.
How long does tree removal take?
Most removals take 2-6 hours. Small trees in open areas take 1-2 hours. Medium trees near structures take 3-4 hours. Large or complex removals can take a full day. We'll provide a time estimate with your quote.
Is stump grinding included?
Yes, we grind stumps 6-12 inches below ground level as part of standard service. Wood chips can be left for mulch or hauled away—your choice. If you want the stump left, we can reduce the price accordingly.
What happens to the wood?
We haul away all wood and debris by default. If you want firewood, we'll cut logs into 16-inch lengths and stack them on your property at no charge. Just let us know when we provide your estimate.
Can you remove trees near power lines?
Yes, we're trained and insured to work around power lines. If a tree directly contacts power lines, Madison Gas & Electric must de-energize the line first. We coordinate with MGE regularly on these situations.
What if a tree falls on my house?
Ensure everyone is safe first. If power lines are down, call MGE at (608) 252-7222. Then call us at (608) 448-8312 for immediate assistance. We typically respond within 2 hours and can tarp roof damage to prevent water intrusion. Document everything with photos for insurance.
Do you offer emergency service?
Yes, we provide 24/7 emergency tree removal throughout Madison and Dane County. Response time is typically under 2 hours for the Madison metro area. Call (608) 448-8312 anytime. Emergency rates are 1.5-2x standard pricing due to after-hours service and urgency.
How do I know if my tree needs removal?
Warning signs include: severe lean (especially after storms), large dead branches throughout the canopy, trunk cracks or cavities, mushrooms growing at the base, significant storm damage, or disease symptoms like oak wilt (wilting leaves in summer). Call us for a professional assessment—we'll honestly tell you if the tree can be saved.
Can you remove multiple trees at once?
Yes, and it's often more cost-effective. When our crew and equipment are already on site, the per-tree cost decreases. Many Madison homeowners save money by scheduling multiple removals together.
Do you handle oak wilt and emerald ash borer trees?
Yes, we have extensive experience with both diseases in Dane County. For oak wilt, we follow proper protocols to prevent spread through root grafts. For EAB, we've removed hundreds of infested ash trees in Madison. The wood must stay within 10 miles due to quarantine regulations.
Service Area
We serve all of Madison and Dane County including
Middleton
Sun Prairie
Fitchburg
Verona
Waunakee
Monona
McFarland
Cottage Grove
Oregon
Stoughton
DeForest
and Cross Plains
Ready to Schedule Your Tree Removal?
Call (608) 448-8312 for free estimates or 24/7 emergency service
Williams Tree Maintenance - Serving Madison since 1995
