Professional Small Tree Clearing & Yard Cleaning in Atlanta, Georgia, by Allatoona Tree Company

We evaluate tree health, structural defects, site constraints, and long-term landscape goals. Preservation is preferred when a tree is healthy and not a hazard; trimming is chosen for clearance or structural improvement. Removal is recommended for dead, diseased, or dangerously leaning trees, or when roots threaten structures. In Atlanta we also consider species, proximity to utilities, and municipal rules. We’ll explain risks, expected lifespan, and alternatives so you can make an informed, cost-effective decision.

Permit needs vary by city/neighborhood, tree size, and protective ordinances (especially for canopy or landmark trees). For most small residential jobs permits aren’t required, but for protected trees or certain developments they are. We can advise whether a permit is likely and, if requested, coordinate with local authorities or provide documentation you can submit. When permitting is required, additional lead time and fees may apply — we’ll clarify this upfront.

We plan access routes to avoid lawn damage, use matting or plywood where vehicles cross soft ground, and hand-work near delicate plants. Before work we mark no-go zones and cover or temporarily relocate potted plants when feasible. Crews use directional felling, rigging, and brush chipping to minimize impact. We also clean up debris and inspect for damage afterward. If heavy equipment is necessary, we’ll discuss potential turf repair options in advance.

Locating underground utilities is critical. We request the homeowner call 811 for utility marking before work; for larger jobs we perform our own visual checks and probe small areas by hand. If your property has private lines (irrigation, electrical to outbuildings, or dog fences) point them out beforehand. We won’t operate heavy equipment until utilities are marked and any risk mitigated. If active lines are present, we’ll adjust methods or recommend professionals.

We offer both options. Cutting flush is quicker and less expensive; however stumps can regrow, create trip hazards, and obstruct landscaping. Grinding removes the bulk of the stump, improves aesthetics, and reduces pest/decay attraction. Full stump extraction disturbs more soil and may require backfilling. We’ll recommend the best approach based on location, future use (patio, lawn, planting), cost, and timeline, so you know tradeoffs between price and permanence.

We separate material on site: chipper-sized branches are turned into wood chips (great for mulch or erosion control), larger logs can be cut to firewood, and unsalvageable debris is hauled off. We ask if you want firewood or chips returned; otherwise we recycle or responsibly dispose of material. In Atlanta we often reuse chips for paths and beds, which benefits soil and saves disposal fees. We’ll give options and associated costs before starting.

We carry liability insurance and workers’ compensation to protect you and our crew. Crews follow industry safety standards (PPE, rigging, traffic control) and we secure the work area to protect bystanders. For jobs near power lines we coordinate with the utility or use specialist crews. We’ll provide proof of insurance on request and explain how liability is handled for unexpected damage despite precautions.

Winter dormancy is ideal for many removals and inspection of structure, while spring/summer growth can complicate access and increase debris. Wet months soften soils, making heavy equipment problematic and increasing rutting risk; hot, dry periods increase wildfire risk for large piles. We plan timing to balance safety, local ecology (nesting seasons), and your timeline — avoiding bird-nesting periods where possible and recommending fall/winter for large clearance when practical.

Pricing is based on tree size and species, number of trees, ease of access, proximity to structures, stump work, required equipment, disposal needs, and site cleanup level. Hidden cost drivers include utility coordination, steep slopes, permit fees, and presence of invasive or protected species. We provide transparent estimates with line items and explain any add-ons so you can compare options and decide which services to include.

Removing trees changes water interception and root structure. In sloped yards especially, large removals can increase runoff and erosion risk. We assess slope, soil type, and downstream features and may recommend erosion control measures (mulch, wattles, planting native groundcover, or retaining features). If you plan landscaping or lawns after clearing, we’ll advise on best plants and soil stabilization to minimize water problems and support rapid revegetation.