Tree Trimming Cost in Denver, CO — 2026 Pricing Guide
Real Denver Metro pricing for tree trimming and pruning, published by the local crew that does the work. Tree Service Denver LLC has trimmed thousands of Front Range trees under the direction of ISA member arborist Eric Petruska. Every price below is what we actually quote in 2026.
How Much Does Tree Trimming Cost in Denver?
Tree trimming in Denver costs $150 to $800 per tree in 2026, with a metro average of about $480. Small ornamental trees run $150–$300, medium shade trees (25–50 ft) run $300–$500, and large trees over 50 ft — cottonwoods, silver maples, mature elms — run $600–$1,000+. Most Denver companies discount each additional tree by roughly $100 when trimmed in the same visit.
Tree Trimming Prices by Tree Size
Ranges below reflect our 2026 Denver Metro quotes and independent local cost data (Angi Denver average: $487; typical local range $286–$1,904 for heavy jobs).
6 Factors That Set Your Trimming Quote
Trees over 50 ft need climbers or a lift. Tight backyard access without room for a bucket truck adds labor time.
Crown cleaning (deadwood removal) is the cheapest. Crown thinning, raising, and structural pruning take more cuts and more time.
Denver’s semi-arid climate builds deadwood faster than wetter cities. Heavily neglected crowns can double the labor.
Branches within 10 ft of energized lines require special clearance work. Tip: Xcel Energy trims trees touching its distribution lines at no cost — call them first.
Elms can only be pruned October–March in Colorado (Dutch Elm Disease ban). Emergency-window elm work books out fast in fall.
Chipping and haul-away is included in our quotes. Some companies bill it separately at $75–$250 — always ask.
When to Trim Trees in Denver (and Save)
Late winter (February – early March) is the best and often cheapest window. Trees are dormant, wounds close quickly with spring growth, disease pressure is lowest, and crews have more open schedule before storm season. Never trim elm trees April through September — that is the Dutch Elm Disease transmission window and Colorado arborists will refuse the work. Dead, hazardous, or storm-damaged limbs should come off immediately regardless of season.
Denver Tree Trimming Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to trim a large cottonwood in Denver?
Mature cottonwoods are Denver’s biggest trimming jobs: expect $600–$1,200 for a standard crown cleaning and $1,000–$2,000+ for heavy reduction on an 80 ft tree. Cottonwoods grow fast, shed big limbs, and usually need attention every 3–5 years.
Is tree trimming cheaper than tree removal?
Almost always. Trimming a medium tree runs $300–$500 while removing the same tree runs $500–$900. Regular pruning also extends tree life and prevents the storm damage that forces emergency removals.
Do I need a permit to trim trees in Denver?
Not for trees on your own private property. Trees in the public right-of-way (between sidewalk and street) are managed by Denver’s City Forester — any contractor working on them must hold a City of Denver tree service license, which we carry.
Why do quotes for the same tree vary so much?
Insurance and licensing. A licensed, insured crew with an ISA arborist carries real overhead. A quote far below market usually means no insurance — and a homeowner liability problem if someone is hurt on your property.
Does trimming multiple trees lower the per-tree price?
Yes. Mobilization (crew, truck, chipper) is the fixed cost of any visit. We discount roughly $100 per additional tree, so a 4-tree job can cost 25–30% less per tree than four separate visits.
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