How close can I plant a tree to my house/foundation?

It completely depends on the tree. For a small ornamental tree like a Japanese Maple (under 20ft mature height), 8-10 feet is usually fine. For a medium shade tree, you want at least 15 feet. For a large, fast-growing tree like a Silver Maple or Pin Oak, don't plant it any closer than 25-30 feet, and further is better.

What are the best trees for small yards or urban spaces?

Look for trees with a smaller mature size or a narrow, upright ('columnar') growth habit. Good options often include Serviceberry, Redbud, Kousa Dogwood, many varieties of Japanese Maple, and columnar versions of Hornbeam or Oak. These give you a tree's benefits without taking over your whole property.

What does it cost to have a professional arborist just come look at my tree?

A professional consultation to assess your situation and give you a plan usually costs between $100 and $300. It's a small price to pay to avoid a multi-thousand dollar removal or repair job down the line. It's some of the cheapest insurance you can buy for your property.

Can I fix this myself?

If it's a very young tree (in the ground 1-2 years) that needs moving, or it's a small tree that needs minor trimming you can do with your feet on the ground, you can probably DIY it. Anything involving ladders, chainsaws, power lines, or potential foundation/pipe damage is a job for a professional, no question.

Wrong Tree, Wrong Place Problems (Troubleshooting & Fixes)

Quick Answer

Okay, so here's the quick version. You planted the wrong tree and now it's a problem. A small, young tree (sapling), you might be able to move it yourself for under $100. However, if you have a larger tree causing issues like cracking sidewalks or interfering with utility lines, you'll need to call a professional. A simple pruning job for a small tree might be a few hundred dollars, but professional relocation of a sapling can range from $250-$700. A full removal for a badly placed mature tree can run anywhere from $500 to over $4,000, depending on size, location, and complexity. It's almost always cheaper to get it right the first time.

Wrong Tree, Wrong Place Problems (Troubleshooting & Fixes) visual diagram — Visual guide for diagnosing key fob issues

Common Symptoms

Tree causes structural damage (e.g., buckling sidewalks, foundation issues, damaged utility lines)

Tree roots interfere with underground infrastructure (e.g., plumbing pipes, septic systems)

Tree grows too large for its space, requiring excessive or improper pruning (e.g., 'Y'-shaped oak under power lines)

Unwanted debris from the tree (e.g., nuts, fruit) causes inconvenience or damage to property (e.g., cars parked beneath)

Poor tree health, stunted growth, or early decline despite proper care due to unsuitable environmental conditions (soil type, sun exposure, water availability)

Tree provides inadequate or unintended benefits (e.g., not enough shade, poor windbreak)

Increased energy bills due to inappropriate tree placement for shading or wind buffering

Damage to the tree itself from being planted too close to structures or other trees, leading to competition or constrained growth

Possible Causes

Lack of planning and research regarding a tree's mature size (height, canopy spread, root system) before planting.

Ignoring site-specific conditions such as soil type, drainage, sun exposure, prevailing winds, and proximity to utilities or structures.

Prioritizing aesthetics or immediate cost over long-term suitability and future growth.

Selecting tree species that are not well-suited to the local climate zone or specific environmental conditions of the planting site.

Planting too close to power lines, plumbing, foundations, driveways, or other obstacles.

Choosing a tree with an aggressive root system for confined spaces or near infrastructure.

Step-by-Step Diagnosis

Step 1

Assess the tree's current size, health, and growth habit relative to its surroundings.

Step 2

Identify any existing damage to structures, utilities, or the tree itself that can be attributed to its placement.

Step 3

Review local climate data and soil conditions to determine if the tree species is appropriate for the area.

Step 4

Research the typical mature size and characteristics (root system, canopy, fruit/debris) of the specific tree species.

Step 5

Evaluate the original planting goal (e.g., shade, windbreak) to determine if the tree is currently fulfilling or is likely to fulfill that goal effectively.

Step 6

Inspect for signs of stress or improper pruning that may be a direct result of being in the wrong location.

Wrong Tree, Wrong Place Problems (Troubleshooting & Fixes) — Key fob troubleshooting and repair overview

DIY vs Professional Costs

Repair Type	DIY Cost	Professional Cost	Time Required
Minor Pruning (small tree, no power lines)	$0-$50	$150-$500	1-2 hours
Relocating a SAPLING (under 6' tall)	$20-$100	$250-$700	2-4 hours
Root Barrier Installation (limited cases)	$50-$200	$300-$1000	4-8 hours
Mature Tree Removal	NOT a DIY job	$500-$4000+	3-8 hours

Minor Pruning (small tree, no power lines)

DIY$0-$50

Pro$150-$500

Time1-2 hours

Relocating a SAPLING (under 6' tall)

DIY$20-$100

Pro$250-$700

Time2-4 hours

Root Barrier Installation (limited cases)

DIY$50-$200

Pro$300-$1000

Time4-8 hours

Mature Tree Removal

DIYNOT a DIY job

Pro$500-$4000+

Time3-8 hours

When to Call a Professional Tree Service

When a tree's mature size or root system is causing or has the potential to cause significant damage to property (foundations, utilities, driveways).
If extensive pruning is required to keep a tree away from power lines or structures.
When a large or established tree needs to be removed or relocated due to improper placement.
For expert advice on species selection and optimal placement for new plantings to prevent future problems.
If you are unsure about the best course of action for managing a tree that is clearly in the wrong place.
When dealing with trees near overhead utility lines, which often require credentialed professionals.
If you need to use a ladder and a chainsaw at the same time - just don't. Call a pro.

Prevention Tips

Define the goal for planting the tree (shade, privacy, aesthetics, windbreak) before selecting a species.
Always select tree species based on their mature height, canopy spread, and root system characteristics.
Assess site conditions: Consider soil type, drainage, sun exposure (full sun, partial sun, shade), prevailing winds, and climate zone.
Ensure adequate clearance from foundations, driveways, sidewalks, utility lines (overhead and underground), septic systems, and other structures.
Consider fruit, nuts, leaves, or sap a tree might drop and its proximity to cars, patios, or pools.
Utilize resources like local nurseries, arborists, or county extension offices for advice.
Always call 811 before digging to locate underground utilities.

Wrong Tree, Wrong Place Problems (Troubleshooting & Fixes) professional repair detail — Professional key fob repair and programming

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Guides

Preparing Trees for Winter Storms (Troubleshooting & Fixes)

A veteran arborist's guide to prepping your trees for winter. Learn how to spot risks and prevent storm damage before it costs you a new roof.

Read guide

Identifying common tree pests and diseases and their impact on tree health and longevity. Troubleshooting & Fixes

Read guide

Identifying Diseased Tree Branches: A Homeowner's Visual Guide to Early Detection Troubleshooting & Fixes (2024 Guide)

Seeing sick branches on your tree? A veteran arborist explains how to spot disease, what it means, and when you can DIY the fix or need to call a pro.

Read guide