How much does tree pruning cost on the Northern Beaches?

Tree pruning across the Northern Beaches — including Manly, Dee Why, and Frenchs Forest — typically costs $300–$1,500 depending on tree size, access, and work required. Small tree pruning starts around $300, while large tree crown reduction may cost $800–$1,500. All work follows Australian Standard AS 4373. We provide free on-site quotes with no obligation. See our tree services cost guide for more pricing detail.

What is the best time to prune trees on the Northern Beaches?

Most trees are best pruned in late winter to early spring before new growth begins. However, dead or hazardous branches can and should be removed any time of year. Native Australian species such as eucalyptus and Angophoras often respond well to autumn pruning. For species-specific advice, see our guide to the best time to prune trees .

What's the difference between pruning and lopping?

Pruning is the selective removal of specific branches following Australian Standard AS 4373 to improve tree health and structure. Lopping traditionally refers to more aggressive, indiscriminate cutting. Our qualified arborists (Certificate III in Arboriculture minimum) use proper pruning techniques that promote tree health rather than harmful lopping practices.

How often should trees be pruned?

Most mature trees benefit from pruning every 3–5 years. Fast-growing species or trees near buildings may need attention every 2–3 years. Young trees should be pruned more frequently to develop good structure. We can recommend a maintenance schedule tailored to the species on your Northern Beaches property.

Are your tree pruning arborists qualified and insured?

Every arborist on our team holds a minimum Certificate III in Arboriculture (AQF Level 3), with senior consulting arborists qualified to AQF Level 5. We are members of Arboriculture Australia, carry $20 million in public liability insurance, and complete all pruning to Australian Standard AS 4373. We have been serving Northern Beaches homeowners since 1995.

Do I need council approval for tree pruning?

Generally, you can prune up to 10 per cent of a tree's canopy without Northern Beaches Council approval. More extensive pruning — such as major crown reduction — may require permission, particularly for protected species. Our AQF Level 5 consulting arborists can advise on what's permitted and prepare any necessary applications. Read our tree permit guide for full details on what requires approval.

Can you prune trees near power lines?

Yes, our qualified arborists are trained and equipped to work near power lines safely across the Northern Beaches. For trees in contact with live wires, we coordinate with Ausgrid for isolation. We carry $20 million in public liability insurance and maintain required clearance distances around all power infrastructure.

Can you prune to improve my view?

Yes, selective crown thinning and reduction can significantly improve views while keeping your trees — a popular service in coastal suburbs like Collaroy, Dee Why, and Seaforth. We work with you to achieve the right balance between views and tree retention.

What's the difference between crown thinning and crown reduction?

Crown thinning removes select branches throughout the canopy to increase light and airflow without changing the tree's overall size. Crown reduction lowers the height and spread by cutting back to suitable growth points. Both techniques follow Australian Standard AS 4373 and are performed by our qualified arborists.

Do you clean up all the branches after pruning?

Yes, complete cleanup is included in every pruning job. We remove all cut material, rake the area, and leave your property spotless. We can also mulch material on-site for your garden beds if you prefer.

Tree Pruning Northern Beaches

Expert tree pruning to enhance health, safety and appearance of trees throughout Northern Beaches.

$20M Public Liability Insurance

AS 4373 Pruning Standards

Storm Damage Prevention

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Trusted by Northern Beaches homeowners since 1995 for expert tree pruning

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Tree Pruning

Tree Pruning Across the Northern Beaches

What you can expect when you work with us

Tree pruning Northern Beaches is essential for maintaining healthy, safe, and attractive trees on your property. Whether you need crown reduction on a mature eucalyptus in Frenchs Forest, deadwood removal from a Norfolk Pine in Manly, or formative pruning on young trees in Dee Why, our qualified arborists deliver professional results to Australian Standard AS 4373. Tree pruning starts from $300 with complete site cleanup included in every quote.

With over 30 years of experience serving the Northern Beaches since 1995, our arborists understand the unique pruning requirements of local tree species — from Sydney Red Gums and Angophoras in Belrose and Davidson to Bangalow Palms along the coastline and Brush Box street trees in Brookvale. Every arborist on our team holds a minimum Certificate III in Arboriculture (AQF Level 3), with senior consulting arborists qualified to AQF Level 5. We are members of Arboriculture Australia and carry $20 million in public liability insurance.

We offer all types of pruning services including crown thinning, crown reduction, deadwood removal, canopy lifting, and formative pruning for young trees. Strategic pruning before storm season (October to March) reduces wind resistance and prevents branch failure during severe weather — a critical service across exposed coastal suburbs from Collaroy to Palm Beach. Whether you have a single tree that needs attention or an entire property requiring regular maintenance, we deliver consistent, professional tree care across all 48 Northern Beaches suburbs.

Crown thinning, reduction and shaping to AS 4373

Deadwood and hazard branch removal

Storm damage prevention pruning

Formative pruning for young trees

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Qualified arborist performing professional tree pruning on the Northern Beaches

Common Scenarios

When You Need Tree Pruning

Regular pruning keeps your trees healthy and your property safe. Here are the key signs it's time to call one of our qualified Northern Beaches arborists.

Dead branches visible in the canopy that could fall in wind

The tree is blocking light to your home, garden, or solar panels

Branches are touching or rubbing against your roof, gutters, or fence

The tree hasn't been pruned in 5+ years and is overgrown

You want to reduce the tree's height or spread for safety

Preparing trees for storm season to reduce wind resistance

Council or neighbour has requested you manage overhanging branches

You notice signs of disease such as dieback, cankers, or unusual leaf drop

Service Features

Tree Pruning Capabilities

Specialist tree pruning techniques and equipment for every situation

Crown Thinning

Selective removal of inner branches throughout the canopy to increase light penetration and airflow — ideal for overgrown trees in suburbs like Frenchs Forest and Belrose. Reduces wind load while preserving the tree's natural shape and overall size.

Crown Reduction

Lowering the overall height and spread of the canopy while maintaining the tree's natural form. A popular service in Dee Why, Collaroy, and Seaforth where mature trees obstruct views or encroach on buildings. Cuts are made to suitable growth points so the tree recovers with a balanced, healthy structure.

Deadwood Removal

Elimination of dead, dying, and hazardous branches from the canopy before they fall — particularly important before storm season (October to March). Essential for safety around homes, footpaths, and outdoor living areas across the Northern Beaches.

Formative Pruning

Shaping young trees to develop strong, well-spaced branch architecture for the future. Especially important for newly planted natives across Northern Beaches developments. Early intervention prevents structural defects and reduces the need for costly corrective work later.

Our Process

What to Expect — Tree Pruning

Professional tree pruning is more than just cutting branches. Here's our process for delivering results that improve your trees' health and appearance.

Tree Assessment

Our qualified arborist (minimum Certificate III in Arboriculture) examines each tree's structure, health, and growth patterns. We identify which branches to remove and which to retain for optimal tree health.

Pruning Plan Discussion

We discuss your goals—whether that's improving light, reducing size, clearing structures, or improving appearance—and explain what's achievable while maintaining tree health.

Preparation & Safety Setup

Drop zones are established, garden beds protected, and all safety equipment set up. Neighbouring properties are notified if work is near boundaries.

Precision Pruning

Following Australian Standard AS 4373, our arborists make proper cuts to branch collars and natural growth points, removing selected branches. No indiscriminate cutting or harmful topping.

Quality Check & Cleanup

The arborist reviews the completed work from ground level, making any final adjustments. All debris is removed and your garden is left clean.

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Pricing

Tree Pruning Cost & Pricing Guide

Transparent pricing for tree pruning services across the Northern Beaches

$250–$500

Small Tree Pruning

Small ornamental trees and hedging. Crown shaping, deadwood removal, and light reduction.

$500–$1,000

Medium Tree Pruning

Standard pruning for backyard trees. Crown thinning, reduction, and deadwood removal.

$1,000–$2,000

Large Tree Pruning

Mature trees requiring climbing or elevated work platform. Crown reduction and complex canopy work.

$1,500–$4,000

Multi-Tree Package

Multiple trees on one property. Discounted rate for comprehensive property maintenance.

Factors That Affect Cost

Tree size and canopy spread

Type of pruning required (thinning vs reduction)

Access for equipment

Height and climbing difficulty

Number of trees to be pruned

Proximity to structures and power lines

Regular pruning is more cost-effective than emergency work. Ask about our annual maintenance programs for ongoing tree care.

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Our Advantages

Why Choose Us for Tree Pruning

Experience, reliability, and a genuine commitment to quality, safety and customer satisfaction throughout the Northern Beaches.

Fully Licensed & Insured

Our team holds all required NSW licences and comprehensive insurance coverage, providing complete protection and peace of mind throughout your tree services project.

30+ Years Experience

With over thirty years of experience, we've developed specialised knowledge of arboricultural techniques suited to Sydney's unique climate and native species.

Comprehensive Services

From tree removal and pruning to stump grinding, arborist reports, emergency services, and land clearing, we provide end-to-end tree solutions.

Transparent Pricing

We offer detailed, itemised quotes with no hidden fees and competitive rates that reflect the high quality of our professional workmanship.

Fast Response Times

Our team responds promptly to all enquiries with 24/7 emergency services available when you need urgent assistance for storm damage or hazardous situations.

Satisfaction Guarantee

We stand behind our work with a comprehensive satisfaction guarantee, ensuring complete peace of mind with every tree service we provide.

FAQs

Tree Pruning Northern Beaches FAQs

Common questions about tree pruning services across the Northern Beaches

Reviews

What Our Customers Say

Trusted by Northern Beaches homeowners for tree pruning

"Sam and his team were great! Job well done on removing two large trees, plus the customer service, promptness and communication side was excellent. Very impressed. Highly recommend."

Lucy Butler

Forestville

"Very happy to recommend Sam and his team to everyone. They did an incredible job removing a couple of very large cypress pine trees that were very close to our house. The team were very professional and quite impressive to watch at work. They did a very thorough job with the stump grinding and their overall price was very competitive. They cleaned up everything very well afterwards as well. Will definitely be getting Sam back if we end up getting a tree removed again. Thanks guys!"

Adam Sargeant

Frenchs Forest

"I can wholeheartedly recommend Sam and his team. The job was priced fairly and competitively and the team were prompt and worked solidly until the work was done. They cleaned up everything after as promised and did a fantastic job pruning some very large viburnums! Sam was very easy to deal with and also gave some great advice around how best to maintain them ongoing. Thanks guys!"

Steve B

Manly

"Highly recommend Sam and his team. The job of removing a large eucalypt tree next to my home was done with precision that was awe-inspiring. It wasn't an easy job, but they nailed it. Fair pricing without any problem, good communication throughout and tidy, really hard working team with all the gear and knowledge. Absolutely 10/10."

John Reid

Mona Vale

"A large branch came down in the storm and blocked our driveway in Narrabeen. Called Sam and he had a team out within the hour. They cleared everything safely and even checked the rest of the tree for us. Brilliant emergency response — so grateful for the fast turnaround."

Michelle Torres

Narrabeen

"Sam and his team cleared a large section of overgrown land at our Duffys Forest property for bushfire preparation. They were thorough, efficient and took care with the native species we wanted to keep. Very knowledgeable about BAL ratings and council requirements. Highly recommend."

Mark Henderson

Duffys Forest