Tree Service & Land Clearing in Putnam County — Costs & How to Hire

Rural, wooded, and storm-prone, Putnam County keeps tree crews busy — from clearing a lot to build on, to dropping a hazardous oak, to hurricane cleanup. Here’s how to do it safely and legally.

What it costs

Tree removal: roughly $400–$2,000+ per tree, by size, health, and access. A big oak over a house is the priciest job; an open-yard pine is the cheapest.
Stump grinding: usually a $100–$400 add-on.
Land clearing: roughly $1,500–$4,000+ per acre, depending on density and haul-off. Palmetto-heavy, wooded lots run higher. Always get an on-site quote.

When you need a permit

Routine removal of a hazardous tree on your own lot usually doesn’t require a permit — but clearing near wetlands, buffers, or the St. Johns River, or removing certain protected trees, can require county and/or St. Johns River Water Management District approval. When in doubt, check with the county before you clear — it’s cheaper than a fine.

Storm cleanup

Hurricanes and summer storms are a fact of life here. Licensed tree services handle emergency removal of downed and leaning trees. Use insured pros — storm season draws unlicensed operators, and tree work is genuinely dangerous.

How to hire

Use a licensed and insured tree service — verify insurance before any climbing or felling.
Confirm whether your job needs a permit near water or protected trees.
Get a written estimate covering removal, stump, and cleanup/haul-off.
Get two or three quotes for larger clearing jobs.

Local tree and land-clearing pros are listed below. Tap to call.

Common questions

How much does it cost to remove a tree in Putnam County?

Tree removal typically runs roughly $400–$2,000 or more per tree, depending on size, health, and how tricky the access is. A large live oak near a house costs far more than a small pine in an open yard. Stump grinding is usually an add-on of about $100–$400.

How much does it cost to clear land per acre?

Land clearing generally runs roughly $1,500–$4,000+ per acre in this area, depending on how dense the trees and brush are and what has to be hauled off. Wooded, palmetto-heavy Putnam County lots sit toward the higher end. Get an on-site quote.

Do I need a permit to clear land or remove trees in Putnam County?

Sometimes. Routine removal of a hazardous tree on your own lot usually doesn't, but clearing near wetlands, buffers, or the St. Johns River, or removing certain protected trees, can require county and/or St. Johns River Water Management District approval. Check with the county before clearing.

Who handles storm-damaged trees?

After hurricanes and storms — a regular event in Putnam County — licensed tree services handle emergency removal of downed and hazardous trees. Use insured pros; storm cleanup draws unlicensed operators, and tree work is dangerous.