Tree stump removal cost in Sydney typically runs from $170 to $1025 per stump when you grind it out, with a typical price of $230 for a small stump up to $690 for a large one (October 2026). Stump diameter, access and the number of stumps drive the price most.
This guide shows what stump grinding is, what each size costs, how to compare quotes and when to book a professional. For the wider picture, read our main guide on how to prune and manage trees.
Key points
- Stump grinding costs about $170 to $345 for a small stump, $290 to $575 for a medium one and $460 to $1025 for a large one (October 2026).
- Diameter is the biggest cost driver, followed by access, roots and how many stumps you have in one visit.
- Booking several stumps in one job is usually the cheapest way to pay, since the crew sets up once.
- DIY is realistic only for small stumps with hand tools, and grinders are hazardous and best left to professionals.
What is stump grinding?
Stump grinding uses a machine with a rotating cutting wheel that chips the stump and upper roots into mulch below ground level.
| Term | Meaning | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Stump grinding | A machine grinds the stump down below the surface | The usual method, and the one that most price lists describe |
| Stump removal | Taking the whole stump and main roots out of the ground | Leaves a large hole to fill, so ask for it to be quoted separately |
| Wood chips | The mulch left after grinding | Can be raked into beds or removed for an extra fee |
| Diameter | The width of the stump across the top | The measurement most quotes are based on |
| Surface roots | Roots that run close to or above the soil | Add time if they need to be ground as well |
| Council approval | Permission that many councils require before a tree is removed | Needed before the tree comes down, so the stump is a second step |
Tree stump removal cost: price table
These figures come from Sydney price surveys for October 2026 and include GST.
| Stump size | Low | Typical | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small (under 30 cm) | $170 | $230 | $345 |
| Medium (30 to 60 cm) | $290 | $400 | $575 |
| Large (60 cm and over) | $460 | $690 | $1025 |
How much does stump grinding cost?
The table above gives per-stump prices, and your property decides the rest.
- A small stump under 30 cm typically costs about $230, and it can take under an hour for a crew with the right machine.
- A medium stump between 30 and 60 cm typically costs about $400, with extra if roots run under paths.
- A large stump over 60 cm typically costs about $690, and big stumps may need a larger machine.
- Multiple stumps in one visit often get a better per-stump rate, so ask for a combined quote.
- Cost of stump grinding goes up where a machine cannot fit through gates, so measure your side access first.
- Ask for the total price including GST and clean-up, so you can compare quotes fairly.
Tree stump removal cost Melbourne and other cities
Sydney figures are verified, and other capitals vary with local wages, disposal fees and access.
| City | What to expect | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sydney | $170 to $1025 per stump by size (October 2026) | Verified range used throughout this guide |
| Melbourne | Similar structure, with price rising by stump width (indicative — ask for local quotes) | Check council tree rules before any work |
| Brisbane | Broadly similar to Sydney for comparable stumps (indicative — ask for local quotes) | Fast-growing species can mean larger root systems |
| Perth | Varies with access and sandy soils (indicative — ask for local quotes) | Sandy ground can ease grinding but affect machine access |
| Adelaide | Varies with stump size and access (indicative — ask for local quotes) | Ask whether quotes include chip removal |
| Regional areas | Travel charges often apply (indicative — ask for local quotes) | Batch several stumps into one visit |
What affects tree stump removal cost
Price changes with the job, not just the stump.
- Stump diameter sets the base price band, as the table above shows for small, medium and large stumps.
- Access through narrow gates or steep paths means smaller machines, more time and sometimes a higher quote.
- Hardwood stumps are tougher to grind than softwood, and old stumps can be harder than fresh ones.
- Large surface roots add time, so ask whether roots are included in the quote.
- Wood chip removal is often an extra charge, while leaving chips as mulch costs less.
- Number of stumps changes the per-stump rate, because setup and travel are shared across one visit.
DIY vs hiring a pro
| Factor | DIY | Hiring a pro |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Lower cash cost, but hire and tools add up | About $170 to $1025 per stump by size (October 2026) |
| Suitable stump size | Small stumps only | Any size, including large hardwoods |
| Safety | Higher risk of injury from tools and kickback | Trained operators with the right gear |
| Time | Often a full weekend for one stump | Usually hours, including clean-up |
| Underground services | Risk of hitting pipes or cables | Checks before the grinder starts |
| Result | Often a partial job with a rough hole | Ground below the surface, ready to backfill or turf |
If you have not removed the tree yet, work above head height, near power lines or on large trees is for a qualified arborist, not a weekend project.
How to save on tree stump removal cost
- Get at least three itemised quotes from local operators and compare the same scope of work.
- Book the stump grinding at the same time as tree removal or pruning, so travel and setup are shared.
- Clear the area around the stump so the crew can reach it quickly.
- Leave the wood chips as mulch for your beds if you are happy with them, instead of paying for removal.
- Group several stumps into one visit rather than booking them one at a time.
- Check your council’s tree rules first, since cutting without approval can cost far more than any saving.
What a fair quote should include
- Itemised pricing for each stump with its diameter, plus GST and the total.
- Access notes, such as gate width, slopes and any underground services to avoid.
- Clean-up details, including whether wood chips stay or go and who does the final raking.
- Proof of public liability insurance and the operator’s licence or business details.
- Workmanship warranty terms in writing, plus confirmation of any council approval needed.
- Payment terms and a start date, so there are no surprises on the day.
FAQ: stump grinding questions
What is stump grinding?
Stump grinding is the process of using a machine with a rotating cutter to chip a stump and its upper roots into mulch below ground level. It is faster and less disruptive than digging a stump out, and it leaves a spot you can backfill, turf or plant.
How much does stump grinding cost?
In Sydney, a small stump costs about $170 to $345, a medium stump about $290 to $575 and a large stump about $460 to $1025 (October 2026). Access, roots and the number of stumps move the price, so ask for an itemised quote.
How much does it cost to remove a tree stump?
Most Sydney operators price stump grinding by diameter, which is the verified range in this guide. Full removal means digging out roots and filling the hole, so ask for it quoted separately. Quotes depend on width, access and disposal. Ask each operator to itemise grinding, removal and clean-up so you can compare fairly.
How much to remove a tree stump yourself?
DIY costs less in cash, but hire fees, safety gear and your time add up, and the work is hazardous. It suits only small stumps with hand tools. For anything larger, book a professional and keep your weekends free.
Getting a stump ground in Sydney
If a stump is spoiling your lawn or garden, we help Sydney homeowners with tree pruning, garden clean-ups and stump work through qualified partners. Book tree pruning and stump work in Sydney and get an itemised quote. To plan the whole job, see our guides on tree removal cost and council tree removal permits.
