Why Trees Need to Be Removed
Not every tree can be saved, and sometimes removal is the safest option. Common reasons for tree removal in the Duluth area include:
Dead or Dying Trees: A dead tree is a hazard waiting to happen. Without the structural integrity of living tissue, branches and trunks can fail without warning. In Duluth’s harsh winters, dead trees are especially vulnerable to collapse under snow and ice loads. Not sure if your tree needs removal? Learn the signs a tree needs to be removed.
Hazardous Location: Trees growing too close to structures, power lines, or walkways may need removal even if healthy. A mature white pine leaning over your roof or an ash tree entangled with utility lines presents ongoing risk.
Storm Damage: Lake Superior storms can devastate even healthy trees. When major structural damage occurs—split trunks, uprooted root balls, or hanging branches—removal is often safer than attempting to save the tree.
Disease and Pest Infestation: Some conditions, like emerald ash borer infestation or severe birch decline, may warrant removal to prevent spread to healthy trees or eliminate an inevitable hazard.
Construction and Development: New construction often requires clearing trees from building sites, driveways, or utility corridors.
Our Tree Removal Process
Assessment and Planning
Every removal begins with a thorough assessment by our ISA Certified Arborist. We evaluate:
- Tree species, size, and condition
- Lean direction and structural weaknesses
- Proximity to structures, utilities, and obstacles
- Ground conditions and access for equipment
- Optimal removal method (climbing, bucket truck, or crane)
This assessment ensures we choose the safest, most efficient approach for your specific situation.
Equipment and Techniques
Duluth’s challenging terrain demands professional equipment and expertise:
Bucket Truck (65-foot reach): For trees accessible by road or driveway, our bucket truck provides safe aerial access for limbing and sectional removal.
Crane Service: For large trees near structures, trees on steep hillsides, or limited-access locations, our crane service allows controlled lowering of heavy sections without risk to your property.
Professional Rigging: When trees must be taken down in sections, our crew uses rope systems and rigging to lower branches and trunk sections precisely where needed.
Technical Climbing: In backyards and tight spaces where trucks can’t reach, our trained climbers use industry-standard ascent and descent techniques with proper safety gear.
Safety Protocols
Every Northshore Tree Service job follows strict safety protocols:
- All crew members trained in OSHA safety standards
- Hard hats, chaps, eye protection, and high-visibility gear required
- Traffic control for roadside work
- Drop zones cleared and secured before cutting
- Communication protocols between climber, ground crew, and crane operator
Complete Cleanup
We don’t leave until your property looks better than when we arrived:
- All brush chipped on-site with our commercial wood chipper
- Logs cut to length and hauled away (or left for you if requested)
- Wood chips can be spread in garden beds or removed
- Final rake and cleanup of work area
- Walkthrough with homeowner to confirm satisfaction
Special Situations We Handle
Steep Hillside Removals
Duluth’s terrain includes some of the steepest residential lots in Minnesota. Our crew has years of experience navigating:
- East Hillside’s dramatic grades
- Congdon Park’s wooded ravines
- Piedmont Heights’ rocky terrain
- Lakeside properties with limited access
We use cable systems, winches, and strategic rigging to ensure logs and debris move downhill safely and controlled.
Trees Near Structures
When a tree threatens your home, garage, or outbuilding, precision matters. Our combination of crane service and expert rigging allows us to:
- Remove trees leaning toward structures
- Cut sections away from roofs and siding
- Clear trees entangled with decks and fences
- Handle emergency removals when trees are already on structures
Power Line Clearance
Trees in contact with utility lines require special procedures. We coordinate with Minnesota Power and other utilities to:
- Ensure safe working clearances
- Follow utility company protocols
- Restore power access after removal
Insurance Documentation
For storm damage claims, we provide:
- Photos of damage before removal
- Written documentation of work performed
- Detailed invoices for insurance submission
- Direct communication with adjusters when requested
Serving All of Duluth and Beyond
We remove trees throughout Duluth’s diverse neighborhoods:
- Park Point: Sandy soil and wind-exposed trees
- Lincoln Park: Mature urban canopy
- Chester Park: University-area properties
- Congdon: Historic homes with large trees
- East Hillside: Steep grades and tight lots
- West Duluth: Established neighborhoods
- Spirit Valley and Morgan Park: Mill-era homes with overgrown trees
We also serve Hermantown, Proctor, Cloquet, Two Harbors, and Superior, WI.
Get Your Free Estimate
If you have a tree that needs to come down, don’t wait for it to become an emergency. Want to understand what to expect during tree removal or tree removal costs in Duluth? Our ISA Certified Arborist will visit your property, assess the situation, and provide a clear written estimate with no obligation.
Call (218) 555-0391 or fill out our contact form to schedule your free on-site assessment.