Palm Tree service2026-03-31T10:42:45+00:00

Palm Tree Services

Why Homeowners Trust Us

Professional tree care backed by experience, safety, and guaranteed results.

Fully Licensed & Fully Protected

Licensed professionals with full liability and workers’ compensation coverage for your peace of mind.

40+ Years of Proven Expertise

Decades of hands-on experience delivering safe, precise, and reliable tree care services.

Emergency Tree Removal – 24/7

Available around the clock to handle urgent and hazardous tree situations.

100% Clean-Up Guaranteed

We leave your property spotless — no debris, no mess, no worries.

Palm Tree Services on the San Francisco Peninsula

Palm trees are a defining feature of many Peninsula properties – but they require specialized knowledge and care to stay healthy, safe, and looking their best. At Precision Tree Care Inc., our palm tree specialists provide a full range of professional services: from routine palm tree trimming and pruning to complete palm tree removal and stump removal. Whether you have a single queen palm in a Burlingame backyard or a row of towering Canary Island date palms lining a driveway in Hillsborough, our ISA Certified Arborists have the equipment and expertise to handle the job safely and efficiently.

Palm trees are fundamentally different from hardwood trees – they grow from a single growing point at the crown, and damage to that point can be irreversible. Improper trimming techniques, like over-pruning (sometimes called “hurricane cutting”), removing green fronds, or using climbing spikes on the trunk, can weaken a palm and cause long-term decline. Our palm tree care team understands the biology of every species common to the San Francisco Peninsula – queen palms, Mexican fan palms, Canary Island date palms, and windmill palms – and tailors the approach to each tree’s age, condition, and location.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you remove a very tall palm tree in a tight space?2026-07-21T17:54:52+00:00

Absolutely – tall palm removals in confined areas are one of our core specialties. We use a sectional cutting technique: climbing the trunk and removing it in manageable pieces from the top down, carefully lowering each section with ropes and rigging. This method allows us to safely work around:

  • Houses and fences just a few feet away
  • Overhead power lines
  • Pools, patios, and delicate landscaping
  • Driveways and parked vehicles

For extremely tall palms or complex situations, we bring in a crane to maintain full control throughout the process. No job is too tight or too tall for our crew.

For planning purposes: a sectional palm removal in a tight space typically takes half a day, needs about a 3 foot working corridor for material handling, and leaves no marks on the structures around it. The fronds and trunk sections are hauled the same day.

How much does palm tree removal cost?2026-07-16T21:53:40+00:00

There’s no one-size-fits-all price – every job is different. The main factors that affect the cost of palm tree removal include:

  • Height – a 15-foot palm vs. a 60-foot palm are very different jobs
  • Location – proximity to structures, power lines, or fences
  • Access – whether we can get equipment into the area easily
  • Stump removal – grinding or full extraction adds to the scope

We provide free on-site estimates so we can evaluate the specific conditions and give you an accurate, no-surprise price. No guessing, no hidden fees.

One scheduling tip: palm removals pair well with palm trimming visits – if we are already set up with rigging on your street or your property, adding a removal to the same mobilization is meaningfully cheaper than a separate appointment.

What are signs that a palm tree is dying or needs to be removed?2026-03-26T15:04:56+00:00

Palm trees don’t always show obvious signs of decline, so it’s important to know what to look for. Call a palm tree arborist if you notice any of these:

  • Leaning trunk – especially if the lean is new or getting worse
  • Brown or wilting crown – with little to no new growth at the top
  • Soft or hollow spots – when you press on the trunk
  • Pencil topping – the trunk tapers or pinches noticeably near the crown
  • Fungal growth or oozing sap – visible on the trunk or base

Some of these conditions are treatable if caught early, while others mean the tree needs to come down before it becomes a serious hazard. When in doubt, a professional inspection can save you time, money, and risk.

Do palm tree roots cause damage to foundations or pipes?2026-05-11T12:03:57+00:00

Good news – in most cases, no. Unlike hardwood trees with aggressive root systems, most palm species have fibrous, non-invasive roots that grow in a dense ball rather than spreading out with large structural roots. However, there are a few situations where roots can cause minor issues: palms planted very close to a foundation or retaining wall, surface roots lifting pavers, walkways, or driveways, and roots interfering with shallow irrigation lines. If a palm is causing problems on your property, our team can assess whether root management will solve it or if full palm removal is the better long-term option.

What is the best time of year to trim trees on the San Francisco Peninsula?2026-07-21T19:23:50+00:00

For most species on the Peninsula, late fall through early spring – the dormant season – is ideal for heavy pruning. It minimizes stress, reduces disease exposure through fresh cuts, and lets the tree channel its energy into healthy spring growth. That said, dead wood, hazardous branches, and fire prevention clearance can and should be done any time of year – waiting until the “right season” is not worth the risk when a branch is a liability.

The big local exception: native California oaks prefer the dry season (July through October) – wet-season pruning invites the pathogen behind sudden oak death. If your yard mixes oaks and ornamentals, the honest schedule is two visits, not one.

What palm species are most common in San Mateo County and do they require different care?2026-07-16T21:50:39+00:00

The four most common species across the Peninsula are queen palms, Mexican fan palms, Canary Island date palms, and windmill palms – and yes, they each have different care requirements. Queen palms are moderate height, fast-growing, and produce heavy seed clusters that need regular removal. Mexican fan palms grow very tall and develop persistent dead frond skirts that accumulate quickly and become a falling hazard. Canary Island date palms are large and slow-growing with sharp frond bases that require protective equipment to work around. Windmill palms are smaller and cold-tolerant, needing the least maintenance of the four. Our arborist identifies your specific species before recommending a care plan.

Not sure which palms you have? Trunk texture is the fastest tell: a crosshatched diamond pattern means Canary Island date palm, smooth rings mean queen palm, shaggy fiber means windmill, and very tall and slender means Mexican fan palm.

How often should palm trees be trimmed, and how?2026-07-21T17:45:04+00:00

Most palms do best with one to two trimmings per year, ideally in late spring or early summer before the windy months – more often if the palm overhangs a roof, walkway, or pool, or produces heavy seed pods. Whether it is called palm tree trimming or palm tree pruning, the service is the same: selective removal of dead fronds, seed pods, and fruit clusters.

The rule that matters: only fronds that are fully brown or hanging below horizontal come off. Cutting green fronds – including so-called hurricane cutting before storm season – weakens the palm and does more harm than good; a healthy palm with a full canopy naturally flexes in the wind. If a contractor offers to trim below the green canopy for a lower price, walk away.

Do you offer free wood chips?2026-07-21T19:23:52+00:00

Yes. Fresh wood chips from our daily work are available free on request – and stump grinding produces the same mulch-like chips, which you can keep or have us haul away at no extra charge, your choice at estimate time. Arborist chips are excellent mulch: a 3 to 4 inch layer suppresses weeds and holds soil moisture through the dry season.

Two tips if you keep them: let fresh grindings cool and age a few weeks before spreading, and keep mulch a few inches back from trunks, stems, and the foundation line. Availability depends on where our crews are chipping in a given week – ask when you book work or request a load through our contact form.


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Arthur A Hagan profile picture
Arthur A Hagan
September 10, 2026
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They did a great job pruning a tree in my side yard. Fast, Neat and Clean. Would definitely use them again!
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Andrew T. profile picture
Andrew T.
August 23, 2026
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This is my third time reviewing this company. Once again, I cannot say enough good things about the Company, but Ryan who came out and did the estimate, but the crew and their professionalism. When they left the backyard was actually cleaner than when they got here. These are the reasons I will continue to use them and highly recommend them to anyone who needs tree work if it is for just tightening up or extensive work. They are pros.
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Allen Fong .. profile picture
Allen Fong ..
July 23, 2026
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Second time using precision tree care. The service was fantastic. I highly recommend them.. Thanks to Ryan, Patty, and Leo and his crew.
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Ko I. profile picture
Ko I.
April 23, 2026
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+1
We hired Precision Tree Care to deal with several massive trees that were constantly raining leaves onto both our roof and our neighbors'--which meant nonstop gutter clogging and growing concerns about insects. It had become a real maintenance headache. On top of that, a bunch of small trees had started sprouting everywhere from the seeds constantly dropping from these larger trees. The arborists from Precision Tree Care took care of all of it, pruning everything cleanly and restoring order to the space. Their team came in and absolutely saved the day. They cleared things out thoughtfully and professionally, and the difference is huge--our backyard now gets much more natural light, and we're no longer dealing with constant debris buildup in the gutters. The whole process was smooth, and the results exceeded our expectations. Really appreciate the work--thank you, Precision Tree Care!
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Andrew S. profile picture
Andrew S.
March 23, 2026
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Ryan and the Precision Tree Care team did a fantastic job pruning all four of my palm trees. From the start, Ryan took the time to walk me through the different service options and explain what each one actually meant. I didn't know much about palm pruning going in, and he was genuinely patient and thorough in helping me understand what my trees needed. The estimate was professional and straightforward, and he provided several options for me to consider. On the day of the job, Ryan and the crew showed up on time, worked efficiently, and wrapped everything up faster than I expected. Smooth from start to finish. Highly recommend.
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M Y. profile picture
M Y.
March 20, 2026
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Highly recommend working with Precision Tree Care. This was our second time working with them. Responsive, easy to schedule and their crew (led by Leo) did a very thorough job on our property.
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Greg K. profile picture
Greg K.
October 18, 2025
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We've had the pleasure of working with Precision for over 7 years now. They have always been responsive, professional and efficient. Highly recommend working with them.
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Red L. profile picture
Red L.
September 13, 2025
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Quote for small job which required coordination with our neighbors to either get on their property or trim their tree that was encroaching on structures on our property. Ryan put us at ease from the start treating us with respect and addressing all our questions with direct and knowledgeable answers. Overall a very professional, direct, respectful and trustworthy business owner with a skillful and quick crew. He came on the day of work as well to check that everything was done according to our agreement. Did not expect that on such a small job. Thank you, we will be repeat customers! Hope this review helps you get more business!
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Alana B. profile picture
Alana B.
August 9, 2025
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Excellent service!! Quality work, great price point, fantastic customer service. This company is precise, and experienced!! Five stars
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Matthew E. profile picture
Matthew E.
August 6, 2025
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Just had Precision out to care for and trim a few heritage live oaks, one that was on the sick side. They did a fantastic job. The team are like artists, and the resulting canopy looks beautiful and also balances a tree that needed some care. The team was also very responsive, and great to work with on the site.
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Lee K. profile picture
Lee K.
August 4, 2025
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Although I decided to use a different tree service company because that company was able to work on replacing our existing irrigation, I have no doubt that Precision Tree Care would have done a thorough job. I met with Ryan, their arborist, and he was extremely knowledgeable and helpful. Ryan offered some unsolicited advice that I could do on my own to care for my plants and I really appreciated them. He also offered a very competitive estimate. I will definitely keep Precision Tree Care in mind for future tree work.
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Lance H. profile picture
Lance H.
July 18, 2025
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The crew did a wonderful job pruning a large oak tree that was rubbing against my house. They were professional, efficient, and clearly knew what they were doing. They took great care not to damage the property and cleaned up thoroughly afterward. Communication was clear from start to finish, and the price was very reasonable. I highly recommend them and will definitely call them again for future tree work.
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Linda T. profile picture
Linda T.
July 16, 2025
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+1
Prompt response from start to finish. Arrived on time and worked quickly and efficiently. The crew was polite and very careful of property. The office staff is excellent.
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Justin L. profile picture
Justin L.
June 30, 2025
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Great experience with these folks. Fantastic communication leading up to the project. Leo and his crew made fast work of trimming the cypress tree in front of our house. Very easy to talk to, accomodating and funny! Cannot recommend them enough.
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Brianna M. profile picture
Brianna M.
April 3, 2025
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BEYOND impressed with the service by Precision staff! They not only did an exceptional job, they were polite, courteous, professional,and my yard was actually left cleaner than before they arrived! No doubt that I will be using them again for any help with the trees on my property! Thank you guys!! AAAA+++++ service. Highly recommended!
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Sarah A. profile picture
Sarah A.
February 26, 2025
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They were prompt in replying, and the quoting process. Worked with us to update the quote quickly and find a date that worked for us. We had some time restrictions given the school traffic on our street. The team came earlier and finished the job very quickly and efficiently. They trimmed the trees to our satisfaction, would definitely use them again. Their quoted price was also ~30% less then another quote I got from another company.
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Ellen L. profile picture
Ellen L.
December 22, 2024
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Precision Tree Care have been our "go to" service for tree trimming and tree removal since 2020. Last week we had a small job that was given immediate attention. The crew was cordial, attentive and quick. I am appreciative of the follow-up by Patty and Ryan. Add this company on your list for tree service.
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Carol L. profile picture
Carol L.
December 19, 2024
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This is the 3rd time I've used Precision Tree Care to trim and remove trees. My interactions with the office and on site staff have been great. They are timely and efficient, as well as doing a professional job at competitive pricing. Every time, I am amazed at how quickly they get the job done and how well they tidy thing as back to normal afterwards!!!
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Janette C. profile picture
Janette C.
September 6, 2024
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Ryan and his crew were AWESOME!! We had four large camper trees trimmed, and one tree removed in our backyard. Their pricing was reasonable and the job was done professionally. Many neighbors have asked who trimmed our trees as they too were impressed with the work performed. We highly recommend.
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Jon S. profile picture
Jon S.
August 21, 2024
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Precision Tree Care went above and beyond each time we have used there services. There workers are hard working men and deliver to there customers ! Thanks Ryan & Patty !! City Of Pacifica
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Cathy Plevin P. profile picture
Cathy Plevin P.
July 17, 2024
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Trust me on this,use this fine company for your tree needs.Ryan ,the owner is an arborist who definitely knows how trees grow,fail etc etc. His stellar crew just took some huge limbs off a very large willow at my home today.Crew so incredibly skilled with safety a clear priority. Tree looks so much better and is safer as if a limb fell ,it could cause great harm . They took extra care not to step on or drop anything in newly refreshed flower beds which pleased me also. Thank you Ryan and also Leo and his team.
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Haydee A. profile picture
Haydee A.
July 6, 2024
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They came and gave me a reasonable quote within 48 hours for a tree removal. Highly recommend.
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SC S. profile picture
SC S.
June 15, 2024
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Exceptional people, fabulous results! The team arrived an hour early (in whose universe does that happen?) and talked with me about the job and my expectations. They went to work, did a magnificent job and had a wood chipper to dispose of the tree branches. easy to communicate with and I would hire them again. The only complaint I have was the suggestion that lunch was included. Huh?
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Jack P. profile picture
Jack P.
May 8, 2024
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Had them trim my birch trees and plant a new tree in my backyard. They were very reasonably priced and did a great job. I am going to continue to use them for additional landscaping projects and would highly recommend them. Jack P.
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Mary S. profile picture
Mary S.
April 17, 2024
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Highly recommend Ryan and his crew of workers at Precision Tree Care. They just finished trimming three trees for us and we are very pleased with the job. The crew arrived early but did not start working until 8 am so they would not disturb the neighbors. Worked quickly and efficiently and had us approve the final trimming and clean-up before they left. Will definitely use Precision when our trees need to be trimmed again.
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Allen Fong .. profile picture
Allen Fong ..
March 15, 2024
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Highly recommended .. Patti returned my call within 2 hours. We set up a date for Ryan to come out to estimate the job. Ryan came out, we went over what I wanted done and was text an estimate . Accepted the estimate, signed and sent back to Patti . Leo and his team showed up as scheduled. Reviewed the work order and got started. Less then two hours the job was done . The cleanup was like they used a vacuum cleaner.
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Christina R. profile picture
Christina R.
December 3, 2023
Yelp star 1Yelp star 2Yelp star 3Yelp star 4Yelp star 5Verified
Outstanding company ! From start to finish. Starting with our estimate, it was very thorough and for the extensive work to be done surprisingly affordable. We have several very large oak trees in our backyard growing on a steep hill, with the rains last year and the expected rains this year we needed to trim the trees back. Once we signed the proposal we were given a start date. The owner and the foreman came out the day before to go over the job , figuring what needed to be cut and how so the trees look natural while asking for our input and to explain what will happen the next day. The next morning the crew came out and quickly went to work, trimming back all the overgrown trees but keeping in tact the natural shape and future growth in mind. Once the job was done our yard was cleaned immaculately!!
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Nancy R. profile picture
Nancy R.
October 9, 2023
Yelp star 1Yelp star 2Yelp star 3Yelp star 4Yelp star 5Verified
I have used Precision Tree Care several times. They are professional from the start with bidding by Ryan, Scheduling by Patti and the outstanding, quiet and coordinated working of the tree team of highly skilled men managed by Leo who works right along with them. Their clean up is as impressive as their outstanding tree work. Highly recommend.
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Nora B. profile picture
Nora B.
September 6, 2023
Yelp star 1Yelp star 2Yelp star 3Yelp star 4Yelp star 5Verified
We have a number of large cypress trees in our yard that needed care. After soliciting quotes from four competitors, we settled on Precision Tree Care for trimming of four trees and removal of two. They were neither the most nor least expensive, but throughout the quote process Ryan and Patti provided the most professional service of the companies we contacted. That efficiency and professionalism extended into scheduling and executing the job. Ryan, Patti and the crew completed the work very much to our satisfaction. A wonderful experience! They should be at the top of everyone's list for best tree care service in town!
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Samantha Q. profile picture
Samantha Q.
August 30, 2023
Yelp star 1Yelp star 2Yelp star 3Yelp star 4Yelp star 5Verified
Precision trimmed our two large trees. Fantastic experience overall! They were responsive, experienced, hard working, efficient, and the results look great. Our trees were not easy to shape but they came out looking lovely.

Our Service Areas

Atherton, Belmont, Brisbane, Burlingame, Colma, Daly City, El Granada, Foster City, Half Moon Bay, Hillsborough, La Honda, Menlo Park, Millbrae, Montara, Pacifica, Pescadero, Palo Alto, Redwood City, San Bruno, San Carlos, San Mateo, and South San Francisco

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Why Palm Trees Require a Specialist

The most common mistakes made by non-specialist crews include removing green fronds (which robs the tree of nutrients it cannot recover elsewhere), using climbing spikes on the trunk (which creates wounds that become entry points for disease and pests), and over-trimming the crown into what is sometimes called a “hurricane cut” or “lion’s tail” – leaving the tree stressed, visually damaged, and prone to accelerated decline.

Regular palm tree maintenance is essential for both the health of the tree and the safety of your property. Dead or dying fronds can become heavy, break loose during Peninsula wind events, and cause serious damage to structures, vehicles, or anyone below. Our palm trimming service includes the careful removal of dead fronds, seed pods, and fruit clusters – improving the tree’s appearance while reducing potential hazards.

  • ISA Certified Arborist on every job (#WE-12520A) – species identification and health assessment before any work begins.
  • We never over-trim – only dead, brown, or structurally hazardous fronds removed. Green canopy is always preserved.
  • No climbing spikes on palm trunks – we use rope and rigging systems that protect the trunk surface.
  • Proper equipment for any height – bucket trucks, aerial lifts, and climbing gear for palms of any size.
  • Full cleanup included – all fronds, seed pods, and debris hauled away. No mess left behind.
  • Transparent pricing – written estimate before any work begins. No surprise charges for hauling or disposal.

Palm Tree Trimming, Removal, and Stump Services Across the San Francisco Peninsula

We provide the full range of palm tree services for residential and commercial properties throughout San Mateo County. From routine annual trimming to complete removal of palms that have outgrown their space or become a safety risk – our team handles every step.

Palm tree removal requires specialized techniques due to the tree’s height, dense fibrous trunk, and unique root structure. We use sectional cutting: climbing the trunk and removing it in manageable pieces from the top down, carefully lowering each section with ropes and rigging. For extremely tall palms or complex situations, we bring in a crane for full control. This method allows us to safely work around houses and fences just a few feet away, overhead power lines, pools, patios, and driveways.

Common palm tree service situations we handle across the Peninsula:

  • Routine annual trimming for queen palms, Mexican fan palms, and Canary Island date palms in residential yards
  • Dead frond and seed pod removal from palms overhanging roofs, walkways, and pool areas in Burlingame, Belmont, and San Mateo
  • Full removal of palms that have outgrown their space or become a structural hazard
  • Sectional removal in tight spaces – narrow side yards, fenced properties, and dense residential lots
  • Palm stump grinding and root extraction after removal
  • Commercial palm maintenance for HOA communities, hospitality venues, and commercial properties across Redwood City, Menlo Park, and Palo Alto

Professional Palm Tree Care You Can Trust – Serving the San Francisco Peninsula

Palm tree trimming, pruning, and removal done right requires species knowledge, the correct technique, and the right equipment for the height and site conditions involved. At Precision Tree Care Inc., we bring all three to every job – backed by ISA certification, 40 years of Peninsula experience, and a commitment to keeping your palms healthy, safe, and looking their best for years to come.

We serve properties throughout San Mateo County including Atherton, Belmont, Brisbane, Burlingame, Colma, Daly City, El Granada, Foster City, Half Moon Bay, Hillsborough, La Honda, Menlo Park, Millbrae, Montara, Pacifica, Pescadero, Palo Alto, Redwood City, San Bruno, San Carlos, San Mateo, and South San Francisco.

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