AFFORDABLE TREE REMOVAL SERVICE IN Noblesville, IN

What Are the Most Common Tree Issues In Noblesville?

The European Gypsy Moth (Lymantria dispar) poses a serious threat to trees in Hamilton County and the rest of the state. As their name suggests, these insects are originally from Europe and are not native to the U.S. The moths were originally brought to Massachusetts around 1869, in the hopes that they would be a source of fiber, similar to a silkworm. European Gypsy Moths have since spread, and can be found from Maine to northern Minnesota, and as far south as Virginia.

In their caterpillar stage, European Gypsy Moths are voracious and indiscriminate eaters. They attack over 300 different varieties of trees and shrubs. Over time, this defoliation can make a tree vulnerable to diseases and other pests, or even kill it. All Noblesville homeowners should be on the lookout for visible European Gypsy Moth egg masses, caterpillars, or adult moths on trees. If you spot European Gypsy Moth activity, you should contact the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) at 1-866-NO-EXOTIC.

Another non-native insect that has the potential to damage Noblesville’s trees is the Emerald Ash Borer Beetle. These beetles were first detected in the U.S. in 2002, in Michigan. The first confirmed spotting in Hamilton County was in 2006. Emerald Ash Borers attack all species of ash trees and have been known to infest White Fringetree as well. 

Emerald Ash Borers can completely wipe out an area’s ash trees in a short period of time. These beetles damage trees in several ways. The larvae burrow under the bark and create “S” shaped tunnels. When adults exit a tree, they leave behind a “D” shaped hole, which may be oriented in any direction. Other signs of an Emerald Ash Borer infestation are increased woodpecker activity and shoots growing from the tree’s trunk. Wilted, yellow, or thinning foliage can also occur. If you suspect that ash or White Fringetree has been infested, you should call the Indiana DNR at the number listed above and then contact us for removal services.

Like many northern cities, Noblesville applies de-icing salt and salt brine to the city roadways during the winter. Passing vehicles then spray this salt onto nearby trees. Signs that a tree is being damaged by salt include needle browning, leaf burn, and a general overall decline in the tree’s health. Barriers such as fences can protect trees from salt spray. And some species of trees are more salt-tolerant than others. These species should be considered when planting new trees in high-traffic areas like boulevards and along parking lots.

Does the City of Noblesville Provide Any Assistance in Tree Removal Problems?

The city is committed to preserving its green spaces and tree canopy cover. The Noblesville Tree Board meets monthly and is “responsible for the development of a master plan for the care, preservation, pruning, planting, removal, and disposition of street trees.” Any resident who has concerns about the removal of a tree on public property should contact the Noblesville Street Department at (317) 776-6348 x 4015.

Under certain circumstances, the city also reserves the right to prune or remove trees on private property. These situations are outlined in Noblesville Code of Ordinances, 97.11 High Priority Tree Care. The city may enter onto private property to remove any tree that is “a threat or menace to the public safety or the health of other trees.” Trees on private property may also be trimmed or removed in an emergency. The State Highway Department also has the right to trim or remove a tree if it blocks a state highway within the Noblesville city limits.

Who Is Responsible For Fallen Tree Removal in Noblesville?

Around 70% of the homes in Noblesville are owner-occupied. That simplifies a lot of fallen tree removal issues because property owners are the ones who are responsible. But what happens when a tree covers more than one person’s yard?

It’s the placement of the trunk — and not the branches — that determines tree ownership. If a tree trunk straddles a property line, the tree is the property and the responsibility of both homeowners. 

A fallen tree is an inconvenience and a safety hazard. If the tree is your responsibility, you’ll want to take care of it right away. While it’s impossible to cover every scenario that could come up, here are some guidelines for fallen tree removal in Noblesville.

If you’re a homeowner?

As we mentioned above, the homeowner must remove any fallen trees. This is true no matter where the tree landed, even if it fell off of your property. If you do have a fallen tree, your first call should be to your homeowner’s insurance. Your policy likely provides some coverage, especially if the tree fell because of a storm or natural disaster. If you have a high deductible and the tree is on the smaller side, you’ll have to decide if it’s worth making an insurance claim.

If you’re a renter?

Renters are typically not responsible for fallen trees. Even if the lease requires you to provide basic lawn care like mowing or weeding, tree removal generally falls outside of those duties. The exception to this is if you did something careless or reckless to cause the tree to fall. Then, the property owner may hold you accountable for tree removal costs. 

If you are a renter who is involved in a tree removal dispute, Indiana’s Department of Housing and Urban Development may be able to provide assistance. 

If you’re a landlord?

Landlords who also own the property must remove any fallen trees. 

If you’re a property manager who manages but does not own the home, you will need to coordinate removal with the property owner. The owner is responsible for any costs but as a manager, you may be expected to contact us to coordinate the removal. This depends on the scope of your job duties.

If you’re a neighbor?

We know it’s stressful if your neighbor’s tree falls in your yard especially if any of your property is damaged. If the tree’s trunk grew entirely in your neighbor’s yard, they are responsible for the cost of removal. It’s also worth calling your own homeowner’s insurance to explain the situation and see if you have any coverage.

How Does the Soil Affect Trees in Noblesville?

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) conducted a soil survey of Hamilton County, IN between 1972 and 1975. This survey found that much of the county has poor natural drainage. Poorly draining soils are usually easy to spot — you’ll notice pools of water after a rainstorm. This type of soil is a concern because it can make trees susceptible to root rot. Artificial drainage systems like a french drain, tile drain, or reshaping the soil may have to be done to preserve a tree’s health.

Does Weather Affect Tree Health in Noblesville?

Noblesville lies within the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone 6a. That means that the average minimum winter temperature is -10 to -5 degrees Fahrenheit. Any trees planted in the area must be able to withstand these temperatures. 

In the summer, tornadoes and severe thunderstorms pose a threat to the area’s trees. Large hail can damage younger, smaller trees. Strong enough winds are capable of uprooting even established, mature trees. And in the winter, heavy snow can accumulate on tree limbs and cause them to break. Trees in Noblesville may also be susceptible to frost heaving. This occurs when the soil freezes, expands, and pushes upwards. The tree’s roots are then exposed to frigid temperatures. 

The state DNR has compiled a list of tree species that are suitable for growing in Indiana. Trees that are native to the state have a better chance of growing well and remaining healthy. 

What If Dead Trees Are Near Power Lines in Noblesville?

Dead trees that are near power lines are a serious safety hazard and should be reported to Duke Energy as soon as possible. You can fill out a Tree Trimming Request online. Duke Energy will then assess whether the tree can wait until the next scheduled maintenance or if it must be addressed right away.

If it looks like the tree falling is imminent, you can contact the Noblesville Police Department. They can send someone out to block off the area and will contact the utility company. 

How Much Does Tree Removal Usually Cost in Noblesville?

We receive a lot of phone calls asking us about the cost of tree removal. There are a lot of variables and each project is different, but we can give you some ballpark figures.

The average cost for tree removal in Noblesville is $642.00. Many projects will fall within the $245.00 to $1,939.00 range. There are certain factors that will increase the cost. 

1: If We Remove the Stumps Too

Stump grinding is not included in the cost of tree removal. Some customers choose to leave the stumps as is. But tree stumps can be an eyesore, attract pests, and are difficult to mow around. If we grind the stumps, you can expect to pay between $81 and $239 per stump. The price of stump grinding is usually based on the tree’s circumference. 

2: If the Tree Is Difficult to Access

Some areas can be a tight squeeze for our crew and heavy equipment. We also have to safeguard any nearby structures and roadways. If a tree is difficult to access, you may pay more for removal.

3: If It Is an Emergency Situation

We typically work Monday through Friday during regular business hours, weather permitting. However, we know that our services are sometimes needed 24/7. Tree removal may cost more if we have to come out ASAP or on a weekend or major holiday.