TREES / A SERVICE-PLANNING GUIDE

Tree pruning & trimming

A pruning request should describe the objective rather than simply ask for a smaller tree. Clearance, broken branches and long-term tree care can call for different decisions.

What to document before the visit

• Describe the clearance or condition that concerns you.
• Mark the tree on a photo taken from the ground.
• Explain whether the issue affects a roof, path or neighboring property.

Understand the proposed scope

Ask the provider to explain the proposed pruning objective and what will be removed. Specify cleanup and access arrangements. A qualified assessment can help distinguish work for tree health from work requested for visibility or clearance.

Questions worth asking

• What is the objective of the proposed cuts?
• Is this timing appropriate for the tree and work?
• How will cleanup and surrounding plants be handled?

Use the guide locally

Choose your city for the relevant local starting point. A guide’s availability does not mean a contractor or referral offer covers your address.

Buffalo · Rochester · Syracuse · Albany

Continue planning

• Tree service assessment
• Tree removal
• Stump removal & grinding