Middle Georgia’s tree canopy is both an asset and a liability. The region’s mature oaks, pines, and pecans provide shade, property value, and character, but they also create serious hazards during the severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, and straight-line wind events that hit the area multiple times per year. A single large pine falling during a summer storm can destroy a roof, crush a vehicle, or take down power lines. Dead limbs hanging over homes are a constant threat in a climate where heat stress, drought cycles, and pine beetle infestations weaken trees from the inside out without visible exterior signs. The red clay soil adds another risk factor: shallow root systems in compacted clay make otherwise healthy trees more vulnerable to toppling in saturated ground. Professional tree service in this region is not optional maintenance but risk management. The five companies below serve different parts of Middle Georgia, were verified through their own business websites, and confirmed to be currently operating. All carry liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage, which is particularly critical in tree work given the inherent danger of the profession. Each was confirmed active as of [YEAR] and offers emergency service for storm damage response. When hiring a tree service, always ask for a written estimate that specifies the exact scope of work, cleanup and debris removal responsibilities, and what happens if additional work is needed once the crew is on site.
Tree service is one of the most dangerous occupations in the country, and Middle Georgia sees its share of injuries and property damage from unqualified operators. Any tree service company should carry both general liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage. Ask for proof of insurance before allowing anyone to work on your property, because if an uninsured worker is injured while removing a tree on your land, you could face significant liability. Certification from the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) indicates a higher level of professional training, though not all competent tree workers hold this certification. Beware of companies that appear immediately after storms offering cut-rate pricing from the back of a pickup truck with a chainsaw and no credentials. These operators often leave debris behind, damage property, and disappear before you can follow up. After major storm events, legitimate local companies are busy and may have a waitlist, but the wait is worth the assurance of proper work, proper insurance, and proper cleanup.
1. Doyle Bennett Tree Service — Macon / Middle Georgia
Doyle Bennett Tree Service is a second-generation family-owned business based in Macon, originally started in 1960. That makes them one of the longest-running tree service operations in the region with over 60 years of continuous service. They specialize in residential tree work including removal, pruning and shaping, stump removal, debris and lot cleaning, and emergency services. They also serve commercial businesses with quick-response capability. The multi-generational knowledge of Middle Georgia’s tree species and soil conditions is a meaningful advantage for complex removal jobs.
Services: Tree removal, tree pruning and shaping, stump removal, debris and lot cleaning, emergency tree services, commercial tree services.
Address: Macon, GA (serves all of Middle Georgia)
Phone: Listed on website
Website: doylebennetttreeservice.com
Hours: Mon-Fri, emergency services available
2. Gray Brothers Tree Service — Macon / Warner Robins
Gray Brothers Tree Service positions itself as Middle Georgia’s #1 tree removal company, serving the Macon metro and Warner Robins area. Christian Gray has been climbing trees for over 25 years and remains involved in day-to-day operations. The company uses its own cranes, equipment, and crew rather than subcontracting. A distinguishing feature is their wood waste recycling program: all collected material is brought to a recycling yard where it is sorted into logs, limbs, and firewood, with some converted into landscape mulch or topsoil. Free, no-obligation consultations available.
Services: Tree removal, tree pruning and topping, stump grinding and removal, wood and waste recycling, crane services, free consultations.
Address: Macon / Warner Robins, GA
Phone: Listed on website
Website: graybrotherstreeservice.com
Hours: Mon-Fri, appointment based
3. Montgomery Inc. Tree Service — Macon-Bibb County
Montgomery Inc. Tree Service serves residential and commercial customers in Macon-Bibb County and the greater Macon area. The company emphasizes environmental responsibility, working to use every aspect of a tree that is cut down. Beyond standard removal and trimming, they offer tree evaluations and inspections to determine tree health, firewood supply year-round for wood-fire ovens, fireplaces, and fire pits, and rough-cut lumber sales. The lumber and firewood side of the business is unusual for a tree service and provides value for customers who want to repurpose wood from removed trees.
Services: Tree removal, tree trimming, stump grinding and removal, tree evaluation and inspection, firewood supply, rough-cut lumber, storm damage cleanup.
Address: Macon, GA
Phone: (478) 755-8733
Website: mitreeservice.com
Hours: Mon-Fri, appointment based
4. Twisted Tree Service — Macon / Middle Georgia
Twisted Tree Service is a locally operated, family-owned business serving Macon and surrounding areas. They provide a full range of tree care services with a focus on affordability. Consistently strong reviews praise their combination of fair pricing and professional execution. They operate a bucket truck for elevated work and are equipped for large oak removals in confined spaces. Emergency tree removal specialists are on call 24/7.
Services: Tree removal, tree trimming, stump grinding, lot clearing, emergency tree removal (24/7), bucket truck services.
Address: Macon, GA (serves surrounding Middle Georgia)
Phone: (478) 550-3504
Website: twistedtreeservice.com
Hours: Mon-Fri, 24/7 emergency service
5. Bradley Tree Works — Middle Georgia
Bradley Tree Works was established in 2018 and serves commercial and residential clients in Macon and the surrounding areas. Despite being newer, they have built a reputation for handling large-scale jobs efficiently. Reviews highlight jobs like taking down 17 sixty-to-seventy-five-foot pine trees in a single day with full cleanup. The company is equipped with skid steers, stump grinders, and bucket truck chainsaws for difficult takedowns. They provide fence line clearing, brush cutting, and forestry mulching in addition to standard tree services. Emergency tree removal available 24/7.
Services: Tree removal, tree trimming, stump grinding, fence line clearing, brush cutting, forestry mulching, land clearing, emergency tree services (24/7), residential and commercial.
Address: Middle Georgia
Phone: Listed on website
Website: bradleytreework.com
Hours: Mon-Fri, 24/7 emergency service
FAQ
How much does tree removal cost in Middle Georgia?
Tree removal costs vary significantly based on tree size, location, and complexity. Small trees (under 30 feet) typically cost $200 to $500 to remove. Medium trees (30 to 60 feet) run $500 to $1,500. Large trees (60 to 80+ feet) can cost $1,500 to $3,500 or more, especially if crane work is required. Stump grinding is usually an additional $100 to $400 per stump depending on diameter. Trees close to homes, power lines, or other structures cost more due to the precision required for safe removal. Emergency removal after storm damage often costs 25% to 50% more due to urgency and hazardous conditions. Always get at least two written estimates for large jobs. Estimates should include the scope of work (full removal vs. trim, stump grinding included or separate), debris removal and cleanup, and proof of insurance. Be cautious of estimates that seem significantly lower than others, as this often indicates a company that lacks proper insurance, will leave debris behind, or will not follow safe removal practices. Ask what equipment they will use and how they will protect your yard and structures during the work. Professional companies will explain their approach and address your concerns before starting.
When should I have a tree removed?
Remove a tree when it shows signs of structural failure: large dead branches in the canopy, significant lean that has developed recently, visible fungal growth on the trunk (mushrooms at the base often indicate internal rot), cracks or splits in the main trunk, and root heaving where roots are lifting out of the ground. In Middle Georgia specifically, pine trees that show heavy pine beetle activity (brown needles, visible bore holes, pitch tubes on the bark) should be removed promptly before they become hazards. Any tree with major limbs overhanging a roof line should be evaluated by a professional, especially before storm season which peaks from April through September.
Does Middle Georgia require permits for tree removal?
Macon-Bibb County has a tree ordinance that regulates the removal of trees on residential and commercial properties. Protected trees typically include hardwoods and other significant trees above a certain diameter. Permits may be required before removal, and replacement planting may be mandated. Rules vary by municipality across Middle Georgia’s counties. Warner Robins, Perry, and other cities in Houston County have their own regulations. Always check with your local planning or code enforcement office before removing large trees. A reputable tree service company should be familiar with local ordinances and can guide you through the permitting process. Removing a protected tree without a permit can result in fines and mandatory replacement planting requirements.