These are the questions homeowners and businesses in Palmdale, Lancaster, Quartz Hill, and the surrounding Antelope Valley ask us most — about trimming, removal, stump grinding, permits, and price. The answers draw on 20+ years of experience in high-desert tree work, and they're the same ones we give standing in your driveway.
FAQ
How much does tree trimming cost in Palmdale or Lancaster?
Most residential trimming jobs in Palmdale and Lancaster run $150 to $800 per tree, depending on the tree's size, how many there are, and how complicated the job is. Large trees, palms, and anything near power lines cost more. Estimates are free with no obligation — we come out, look, and give you an honest number before any work begins.
How much does tree removal cost in Palmdale?
Tree removal pricing in Palmdale and Lancaster comes down to size, location, and access. Small trees under 30 feet typically run $300 to $700. Medium trees, 30 to 60 feet, run $700 to $1,500. Large trees over 60 feet can run $1,500 to $3,000 or more. Stump grinding is usually extra. Every property is different, so a free no-obligation estimate is the way to get a number specific to your job.
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Palmdale or Lancaster?
Depends on the tree and the city. Palmdale may require a permit for certain protected or heritage trees, and Lancaster has its own ordinance protecting specific species. We know the local permit requirements and will tell you during your free estimate whether your tree needs one.
As a general rule, Joshua Trees are protected statewide and cannot be removed without a permit, no matter where you live in the Antelope Valley.
How often should trees be trimmed in the Antelope Valley?
Most trees in the Antelope Valley should be trimmed every 1 to 3 years, depending on species and growth rate. Palms need it once a year to clear dead fronds, which are a fire hazard. Fast growers like eucalyptus may need it more often. The heat and dry air of Palmdale and Lancaster stress trees, and regular trimming is what keeps them healthy and structurally sound.
Is tree trimming dangerous? Should I do it myself?
It can be, and no. Falls from ladders and trees are one of the leading causes of serious injury for homeowners doing their own tree work, and cutting near power lines, rooflines, or structures takes professional knowledge to avoid property damage or electrocution. Our crew is fully trained, licensed, and insured — that protects you and your property on every job.
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes. UFO Tree Trimming is fully licensed and insured in California — license #1091603 — with liability insurance and workers' compensation on every job. Ask any tree company for proof of license and insurance before they set foot on your property, us included. An unlicensed or uninsured crew leaves you holding the financial and legal risk if something goes wrong.
Do you offer emergency tree service in Palmdale and Lancaster?
Yes — throughout Palmdale, Lancaster, and the Antelope Valley. If a tree or a large branch is on your house or your car, or blocking access to your property after a storm, call 661-644-7347. We respond to emergency calls and can assess and remove dangerous trees and limbs quickly, before they do more damage.
What is stump grinding and do I need it?
Stump grinding uses a dedicated machine to grind a stump down below ground level after the tree comes out. Skip it and the leftover stump attracts termites, beetles, and other pests, trips people, sprouts unwanted regrowth, and gets in the way of mowing and landscaping. We grind stumps in Palmdale and Lancaster as a standalone service or bundled with a removal.
Do you trim palm trees in the Antelope Valley?
Yes — palm trimming is one of our most requested services in Palmdale and Lancaster. Full skinning, frond removal, and seed pod removal, so your palms stay healthy and safe. Untrimmed palms are a serious fire hazard in the Antelope Valley, especially through the dry summer months. Have them trimmed at least once a year.
How long does tree removal take?
Most residential removals in Palmdale and Lancaster take 2 to 8 hours, depending on tree size, property access, and whether stump grinding is included. We work as a crew to keep the disruption short, and we handle all cleanup and debris removal — the yard is clean when we leave.
Can you remove a tree that is close to my house or power lines?
Yes — this is one of our specialties. Trees near structures, fences, pools, or power lines come down in sections, with careful planning and rigging, not in one drop. We have the equipment and experience for tight-access removals throughout Palmdale, Lancaster, and the Antelope Valley. Never attempt a tree near power lines yourself — that is a job for a licensed professional, every time.
Do you clean up after the job?
Yes — full cleanup and debris removal is included with every job. Branches, logs, and green waste leave in the truck. If you want the wood chips or logs for firewood, tell us before the job starts and we'll leave them for you.
What areas do you serve?
UFO Tree Trimming serves the entire Antelope Valley and surrounding areas — Palmdale, Lancaster, Quartz Hill, Littlerock, Pearblossom, Santa Clarita, Simi Valley, Burbank, Glendale, Pasadena, and San Fernando. Not sure about your address? Call and we'll tell you.
How do I get a free estimate?
Two ways, and one of them doesn't involve talking to us at all. Our instant estimator gives you the published range for your job in about ten seconds — no name, no email, no callback. When you want the exact number, call 661-644-7347 or email photos of the tree to info@ufotreetrimming.com, and we'll come look. No pressure, no deposit, no obligation.
Why should I choose UFO Tree Trimming over other tree services in Palmdale?
Honestly? Check us against the others on the things that are checkable, not the things everyone claims. We're CSLB #1091603 (C-61/D49), active through 05/31/2028, with a $25,000 bond and workers' comp through State Fund — all of it verifiable at cslb.ca.gov in about a minute, for us or anyone else you're considering. We publish our price ranges instead of making you call to find out. We're locally owned, with 20+ years of experience in the Valley, and not a franchise. Everything past that — professional, punctual, thorough — is what every tree company on earth says about itself, so weigh it accordingly.
