Big Trees Small Fees Tree Service in Oklahoma City: Residential Removal and Trimming at Competitive Rates
Big Trees Small Fees is a locally-operated tree removal and trimming company serving the Oklahoma City metro area, positioned as an affordable alternative to larger regional contractors while handling standard residential work without the premium pricing of certified arborist firms.
What Big Trees Small Fees actually is
The business operates as a small crew (typically two to three people) focused on tree removal, limb trimming, stump grinding, and storm cleanup across OKC residential properties. It does not offer consulting on tree health, disease diagnosis, or preservation planning; those services require a certified arborist. The company targets homeowners and small properties rather than commercial development or large-scale landscaping projects. It is uninsured, so liability falls on the homeowner's policy, a significant tradeoff for the lower per-job cost.
Services and pricing
The company charges by the job rather than hourly rates. A typical small tree removal (under 30 feet, no structures nearby) runs $300 to $500. Medium removals (30 to 60 feet, moderate complexity) range from $600 to $1,200. Large or hazardous removals cost $1,500 and up, depending on proximity to buildings, power lines, and debris access. Stump grinding adds $100 to $300 per stump. Trimming and limb removal typically cost $200 to $600 per tree. The company does not publish a detailed rate sheet online, so confirm current pricing by phone or text before scheduling.
Storm cleanup (fallen branches, downed trees) has variable pricing based on volume and urgency. Emergency same-day service may carry a premium. Verify whether dump fees for debris are included in the quote or added separately, as this affects total cost.
How it compares to other Oklahoma City tree services
Larger licensed contractors like those affiliated with ISA (International Society of Arboriculture) certification typically charge $100 to $150 per hour, plus materials. A removal that takes four hours could cost $400 to $600 in labor alone, comparable to or higher than Big Trees Small Fees' fixed quote for straightforward work. However, certified arborists assess tree health, recommend preservation strategies, and are insured and bonded, reducing liability risk for the homeowner. Choose a certified service if the tree is diseased, near utilities, or if you need written documentation for insurance claims.
Larger regional companies (often franchises) bundle tree services with full landscaping and charge accordingly, making them costlier for single removals but potentially cheaper if you need multiple service contracts at one time.
Big Trees Small Fees suits homeowners with straightforward jobs, tight budgets, and properties where liability coverage through their homeowner's insurance is acceptable. It does not suit complex removals near power lines, diseased trees requiring diagnosis, or situations where proof of contractor insurance is a requirement.
Who it suits and who it does not suit
Choose Big Trees Small Fees if you have a healthy tree that is simply too large, a dead tree to remove, or branches that need trimming, and you are comfortable managing the liability yourself. The lower price makes sense for routine maintenance on a tight budget.
Avoid this service if the job is complex, the tree is near power lines or structures, the tree shows signs of disease or pest damage, or your insurance or mortgage lender requires proof of licensed and insured work. Storm damage near homes or businesses also warrants a licensed contractor with insurance.
What the first visit involves
Contact Big Trees Small Fees by phone or text to describe the tree, its size, proximity to buildings or fences, and ground access. The company typically quotes over the phone based on your description; an on-site visit may be requested for uncertain or large jobs. Payment is usually cash or Venmo at completion. No formal contract is standard, so clarify scope (stump grinding included or separate) and cleanup expectations (debris removal or chipping) before the crew arrives.
Hours, logistics, and scheduling
The business operates Monday through Saturday, typically 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though hours shift seasonally (verify before contacting). It serves Oklahoma City and immediate suburbs within a 20-mile radius; longer distances may incur a travel charge. Scheduling is usually same-week for non-emergency work; emergency storm calls are accommodated when possible. Parking is on-site at your property.
Big Trees Small Fees fills a practical gap for homeowners who prioritize affordability and have straightforward tree jobs; its low overhead and residential focus make it a realistic choice for the OKC market where storm cleanup and routine removal happen regularly.
