Tree Surgeons in Spain - When You Need One and What the Law Says About Trees

Tree work in Spain - more complicated than just calling someone with a chainsaw

Trees on Spanish properties and in Spanish streets are more protected by law than many expats realise. Cutting down, severely pruning, or removing a tree without the correct permissions can result in a fine from the local ayuntamiento, and in some cases, a requirement to replace the removed tree at your own expense. Understanding what permission is needed before any significant tree work starts is the most important first step.

When tree work requires permission in Spain

The rules vary between municipalities but as a general guide across the Costa del Sol, tree removal typically requires a licence from the local ayuntamiento. The application usually requires a description of the tree, the reason for removal, and in some cases a report from a qualified arborist confirming the tree is diseased, dangerous, or beyond treatment. Removing more than a third of a tree's canopy in a single operation is generally subject to the same restrictions as removal in many municipalities. Certain species are specifically protected across Andalusia including some mature olive trees, carob trees, and palm species. Trees in communal areas of an urbanisation are the responsibility of the comunidad de propietarios and work on them requires community approval.

What tree surgery work covers in Spain

• Crown reduction and thinning - reducing the size of a tree's canopy while maintaining its natural shape
• Dead wooding - removing dead, dying, and diseased branches to improve safety and tree health
• Crown lifting - removing lower branches to increase clearance beneath the tree
• Tree removal - felling and removal including stump grinding where required
• Palm tree care - frond removal, cleaning, red palm weevil treatment and prevention
• Emergency work - storm damage, dangerous hanging branches, trees that have fallen or are at risk of falling

Tree surgery costs in Spain

• Crown reduction, medium tree: 200 to 500 euros depending on size and access
• Tree removal, medium tree: 300 to 800 euros including removal of arisings
• Tree removal, large tree: 800 to 2,500 euros depending on size, access, and proximity to structures
• Stump grinding: 100 to 300 euros per stump depending on diameter
• Palm tree frond removal, per tree: 80 to 200 euros depending on height
• Emergency call-out for storm damage: 200 to 600 euros depending on urgency and scope

What to check before hiring a tree surgeon in Spain

• Ask whether the work requires a licence from the ayuntamiento, a knowledgeable tree surgeon will advise on this as a matter of course
• Confirm they hold liability insurance, tree work near buildings, walls, and neighbouring properties carries significant risk and a seguro de responsabilidad civil is essential
• Check they have relevant safety equipment and training, working at height in trees requires specialist equipment and technique
• Ask for their NIF and confirm they will invoice properly including IVA
• For palm tree work involving red palm weevil treatment, confirm the products being used are authorised and the operator is licensed to apply them

Finding a tree surgeon on the Costa del Sol

SpainTrades lists vetted tree surgeons and arborists across Malaga and the Costa del Sol - reviewed by expat clients after real jobs. Search by location to find one working in your area.

Find a tree surgeon near you at www.spaintrades.es