How Much Does Tree Pruning Cost in Calgary?

May 3, 2025

General, Plant Health Care, Pruning, Tree Care

A Practical Guide for Homeowners

Pruning can be one of the best things you can do for your trees—when it’s done right. Whether it’s shaping an overgrown lilac, clearing branches from your roofline, or giving a massive poplar some much-needed deadwood removal, regular pruning keeps trees healthy, safe, and looking sharp. But it’s more than just maintenance—it’s an investment in living assets. Well-maintained trees can boost property value, contribute to curb appeal, and offer real social and environmental benefits.

One of the most common questions we get is: “How much does tree pruning cost in Calgary?”

The short answer? It depends. But we’re not going to leave you hanging. In this post, we’ll walk through real-world pricing ranges, explain what affects cost, and help you understand what a good pruning job should include—no fluff, no sales pitch, just the straight goods.

What Affects Tree Pruning Costs in Calgary?

Tree pruning isn’t one-size-fits-all with many variables affecting the cost of tree pruning. Here’s what arborists look at when pricing a job:

Tree Size & Species

Larger trees or those with complex structures take more time, more gear, and often more crew. A crabapple might take an hour, while a 60-foot elm might need a full day, ropes, rigging, and a chip truck. Some species (like spruce or poplar) have awkward growth patterns that make them harder to work on.

Type of Pruning Needed

There’s a big difference between quickly thinning an ornamental tree and carefully removing storm-damaged limbs over a garage. Common types of pruning include:

Structural pruning (formative pruning especially important for young trees) and can help keep larger trees from becoming hazardous
Clearance pruning (for buildings, sidewalks, power lines)
Crown reduction and thinning
Dead/diseased wood removal
Vista pruning (to open up views or to ensure privacy is maintained)
Specialty pruning – Includes topiary, espalier, and pollarding; often aesthetic or space-driven and may require regular follow-up

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Site Access

Is the tree hanging over a house or power line? Is it in a tight backyard with no alley access? Difficult locations can mean more time, specialized rigging or equipment, and skill.

Cleanup & Disposal

Most professional crews (ours included) chip and haul away branches, rake up debris, and leave the site tidy. That adds time—but it saves you a weekend with a handsaw and a truck rental.

Deferred Maintenance

If your tree hasn’t been pruned in years—or if it’s never been structurally trained—expect a more involved process. This is what we call deferred maintenance: routine pruning was skipped, and the tree has grown in ways that may now require more time and care to manage appropriately.

In other cases—like trees that have been topped, storm-damaged, or poorly pruned in the past—we may recommend corrective pruning, also known as crown restructuring. This typically includes:

Removing weak or poorly attached limbs
Re-balancing an uneven or overloaded canopy
Addressing stub cuts, non-viable branches and other poor pruning wounds
Encouraging stronger, more stable growth patterns

A common issue we address during corrective pruning is stub cuts—branches that were cut but left too long. This type of pruning cut never seals (like any improper pruning wound), inviting decay and pests, and often need to be carefully corrected.

Addressing deferred maintenance or crown restructuring is not a one-and-done fix. It’s usually phased over multiple visits (pruning doses) to protect tree health. This prevents the removal of too much live wood at once, which can shock a tree and cause more harm than good. Whether it’s deferred maintenance or damage from a storm or poor past work, we offer phased, priority-based plans that protect your tree’s long-term health.

We don’t believe in quick fixes. When needed, we break pruning into stages to safeguard your tree’s long-term health—not just manage the budget.

Tree Size	Typical Price Range	Examples
Small Ornamental Trees	$150–$500	Lilac, Mayday, Schubert Chokecherry
Medium Trees	$500+	Crabapple, smaller Elm or Ash
Large Trees	$1,000+	Legacy Elm, Birch, Poplar, Cottonwood

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Credentials & Insurance: An Investment in Quality

Hiring an ISA Certified Arborist isn’t just a recommendation—it’s a necessity for ensuring the health and safety of your trees. Certified professionals bring extensive training, adhere to industry best practices, and carry proper insurance, safeguarding both your property and peace of mind.

While uncertified individuals might offer lower prices, the risks include improper pruning techniques, potential property damage, and liability issues. In the long run, investing in a qualified arborist can save you from costly mistakes and ensure the longevity and health of your trees.

If you’re uncertain about your tree care needs, an ISA Certified Arborist in Calgary can provide a comprehensive assessment and recommend a pruning plan tailored to your situation. For guidance on selecting the right professional read our guide on how to select an arborist in Calgary — it’s full of practical advice on what to look for (and what to avoid).

Frequently Asked Questions About Tree Pruning in Calgary

How much does tree pruning cost in Calgary?

Tree pruning in Calgary typically ranges from $150 to $1,500, depending on the size of the tree and the scope of work. Small ornamental trees (like lilac or Schubert chokecherry) usually fall between $150–$500. Medium trees often start at $500, and larger or complex trees commonly exceed $1,000. That said, costs are always based on the pruning specification—not every recommendation needs to be done all at once. At Chinook Arbor, we provide prioritized pruning plans, so clients can make informed decisions and phase work if needed.

Is tree trimming the same as pruning?

They’re often used interchangeably, but trimming usually refers to shaping or maintenance cuts, while pruning is more focused on the tree’s structure, health, and long-term stability. A certified arborist will know what type your tree needs.

When is the best time to prune trees in Calgary?

While we often prune in late winter or early spring, the right timing depends on the tree species and the goals of the pruning—whether it’s structural training, hazard mitigation, or aesthetics. Elm trees must be pruned between October 1 and March 31 to comply with Alberta’s Dutch elm disease prevention rules. Some light pruning (especially for clearance or safety) can be done at other times, but timing is always best decided in consultation with an ISA Certified Arborist.

Can I prune my own trees?

You can prune small trees or shrubs yourself if you make proper cuts. But for anything over 20 feet tall, near buildings or power lines, it’s safest to call a professional with insurance and the right gear.

What’s included in a professional tree pruning job?

A professional job includes an on-site estimate and a written quote detailing the work to be done and the specific pruning goals. Cleanup and disposal are typically included.

Do I need a permit to prune a tree in Calgary?

Not for private trees on your own property. If the tree is on a boulevard or city land, you’ll need permission. We can help you determine ownership and assist with the City process if needed.

How often should I prune my trees?

It depends on the species, age, and structure of the tree:

Ornamental and fruit trees: Every 1–3 years to maintain shape and encourage production
Young shade trees: Every 2–3 years for structural training and good form
Mature shade trees (ash, elm, maple, etc.): Every 4–7 years, or as needed to manage risk or clearance

We provide custom pruning schedules based on your tree’s condition, location, and site context. Not every tree needs regular pruning—it’s about need, not habit.

Tree Care Tree Health Tree Pruning