FAQ

1 How do I know when a tree should be removed instead of trimmed? Look for extensive trunk decay, large dead branches in the upper canopy, a noticeable lean > 15°, root damage (often revealed after storms or construction), or interference with structures or power lines. If two or more of these signs appear, a certified arborist or licensed tree expert will usually recommend removal for safety.
2 Do I need a permit to remove a tree on my property? Most municipalities require a permit for trees over a certain trunk diameter or within protected zones. We can assist you in the permitting process.  If the tree is dead, diseased or a hazard we can submit a letter to the town to get the approval for removal and possibly exempt you from having to put in replacement trees depending on the municipality’s ordinance.
3 What does tree trimming or pruning actually include? Professional trimming removes dead, diseased or crossing limbs, opens the canopy for light and airflow, and shapes the tree for structural strength. We use ISA‑approved cuts that encourage healthy regrowth and reduce the chance of storm breakage.
4 How often should my trees be trimmed? Most shade and ornamental trees benefit from trimming every 2–3 years. Rapid‑growing species (e.g., silver maple) may need annual attention, while mature, slow‑growing hardwoods can often wait 3–5 years.
5 What happens to the stump after a tree is removed? We grind 6–8 inches below grade and backfill with mulch from the stump.  Grinding is faster and the best option if you are not doing a major job like an addition to home, pool, new construction etc.  If this is the case then we leave the removal of the stumps up to an excavation company.
6 Can you remove stumps that are close to utility lines or foundations? Yes, our low‑impact, tracked stump grinders fit through 36‑inch gates and operate with precision around gas, water, or electrical lines. By law we need to stay 2 feet away from any underground utility.  Before we do any stump grinding we call 811 for utility marking.
7 Is it safe to remove a tree near my house during winter? Absolutely. Dormant‑season removals can be safer because leafless canopies offer better visibility and lighter branch weight. Frozen ground also protects your lawn from heavy‑equipment ruts.
8 Will my homeowner’s insurance cover tree removal? Insurance generally pays only when a tree falls due to a covered peril (wind, lightning) and damages a covered structure. Preventive removals of healthy but risky trees are usually out‑of‑pocket, but may qualify for mitigation discounts—check with your agent.
9 How do you protect my lawn and landscaping during the job? Every situation is different, we can go over how we plan to do the job once we come out and do the estimate.  Some jobs are easy where we put our crane in the driveway and take the tree down.  Other jobs may require us to put the crane in the yard, run small skid steers into the backyard etc.  It’s best to have us come evaluate the jobsite and let us tell you how we are going to do the job.
10 What certifications and insurance should a tree‑service company carry? In New Jersey the business must have a NJTC # along with either an LTCO #(Licensed Tree Case Operator) or LTE #(Licensed Tree Expert).  You can check if a company is certified by going to New Jersey Board of Tree Experts (njbte.org) and looking up their company name.  A tree company should have at least $1 million in general liability plus workers’ comp coverage. We meet or exceed all of these standards and will provide proof of insurance upon request.