What to do when a tree comes down
Keep everyone away from the tree, and call 911 if anyone is hurt or in danger. If a line is down, stay away from it and call your electric utility: the Texas A&M Forest Service says to "stay away from any downed utility lines" (TFS). Once it's safe, send the form, and we connect you with a local tree pro who can cut it up and clear it.
What counts as an emergency
- A tree or big limb on the house, a car, a fence or the driveway.
- A broken limb still hanging in the tree, over a spot people walk.
- A split trunk. The Forest Service says that damage is "too severe for the tree to recover from" (TFS).
- A tree on or against a power line. Call your electric utility first: that one isn't a tree pro's job.
When you look it over, "look up and look down" (TFS): for limbs about to fall, and for lines on the ground.
What emergency tree removal costs
Cost guides don't publish an emergency rate. A tree that's already on the ground is the cheaper case: $85 to $300 to clear (LawnStarter, October 2026). A tree on a roof that needs a crane is the expensive one: a crane runs $250 to $600 a day, and a hard job can reach $6,000 or $7,000 (HomeAdvisor, June 2026). For a standing tree, see tree removal costs by height.
Can the tree be saved?
Often, yes. "Trees have an uncanny ability to recover from storm damage," the Forest Service says (TFS). Its rough guide (Can my tree be saved?):
- A tree with less than half its crown left may not survive.
- A split trunk is too much damage to recover from.
- A large tree under a power line may be best removed.
- For a large tree, have a certified arborist look at the damage before anyone cuts.
Oaks need one more step. A storm wound from February through June is a way in for oak wilt, so paint the wounds right away (texasoakwilt.org). And don't let anyone top a damaged tree: the Forest Service says not to top trees.
Hiring after a storm
"Don't hire just anyone who comes by after a storm," says the Forest Service (TFS). AgriLife Extension's storm guide adds: "It isn't wise to choose any person who comes to your door with a chainsaw. If an accident happens, you, the homeowner, can be held liable" (AgriLife ER-040). Its checklist:
- Ask for proof of insurance.
- Get two or three bids if the job can wait.
- Ask for references.
The branches and debris
Ask your city or county about storm debris pickup. In the country, don't burn brush piles soon after a storm: "burn bans may still be in effect" (AgriLife ER-040). Check your county on the Texas A&M Forest Service burn ban map before you light anything. Don't count on the power company for the branches: in Kerrville, KPUB says its crews "will not remove tree debris" after storms (KPUB). Each town has its own brush pickup and burning rules: see your town's page.
Questions people ask
How much does an emergency tree removal cost?
From $85 to $300 for a tree that's already down, to several thousand dollars for one on a roof that needs a crane. The figures and sources are above.
What is considered emergency tree removal?
A tree or limb that has fallen on something, is hanging where it could fall on someone, or has split. A tree touching a power line is an emergency for the electric utility first.
Who do I call if a tree is down in my yard?
If anyone is hurt or in danger, 911. If a power line is involved, your electric utility. If it's only the tree, a tree pro: send the form, and we pass it to one local tree pro who calls you back.
Can you get a tree removed for free?
Rarely. Utilities trim trees near their own lines, and there is oak wilt cost-share money. What help exists.
How much does it cost to take down a 30 ft tree?
About $150 to $450 for a standing tree up to 30 ft (HomeAdvisor). The full answer.