Why stumps are often left behind
When a tree is removed, the crew typically cuts the trunk down to a low stump and leaves the root system in the ground. Full stump removal, meaning digging out the entire root ball, is a much larger job and not always necessary or practical. Stump grinding is the more common approach: a machine chips the stump down several inches below the soil surface, leaving the roots to decay naturally underground.
If OPPD trimmed or removed a tree that was interfering with power lines, note that OPPD does not remove stumps. That's the property owner's responsibility to arrange separately.
Grinding vs. full stump removal
For most residential situations, grinding is enough. The ground-up wood chips, called grindings, can be used as mulch or removed. The roots left underground break down over time, so the soil may settle a bit.
Full stump removal, which involves excavating the root ball, makes more sense in specific situations: if you're planning to pour concrete, install a foundation, or replant in the exact same spot. Ask your contractor which approach fits what you're planning to do with the area.
Replanting and roots
If you want to plant a new tree where the old one stood, the remaining root system can complicate things. Old roots can get in the way of a new planting. A contractor can advise on how deep the grind needs to go and whether the soil will be ready for a new tree right away or needs time to recover.
Planting a new tree is also a reason to call Nebraska 811. Nebraska law requires a free locate request through Nebraska 811 (call 811) at least two full business days before anyone digs. For stump grinding specifically, ask your contractor whether they will call 811 before grinding.
What affects the cost
Stump grinding quotes vary based on several factors. Contractors typically consider the diameter of the stump at ground level, how many stumps are being ground, how accessible the stump is (tight fence lines, slopes, or soft ground can complicate equipment access), and how deep the grind needs to go for your plans.
Whether the contractor hauls away the grindings or leaves them on site also affects the price. It's worth asking upfront.
Disposal: what you can and can't put at the curb
Omaha's curbside yard waste program accepts branches up to 2 inches thick and 4 feet long, bundled, during the free spring and fall collection weeks (stickers are needed outside those weeks). The free Oma-Gro drop-off site does not accept stumps or branches over 2 inches thick.
That means trunks, large limbs, and stumps from tree work are not curbside material. Ask your contractor whether haul-away of the grindings and any remaining debris is included in the quote, or whether that's an add-on.
How to choose a contractor for stump removal
The Nebraska Forest Service recommends getting more than one estimate and being cautious about quotes far below the others. Ask for certificates of insurance for both liability and workers' compensation, and call the insurer to confirm. Nebraska contractors must register with the Nebraska Department of Labor; search at dol.nebraska.gov. You can also check a company's record with the BBB of the Midwest Plains, which has an office in Omaha. Get the scope of work and price in writing before anything starts.
Frequently asked questions
Is stump grinding always included when a tree is removed?
Not always. Tree removal and stump grinding are often quoted separately. Ask specifically about the stump when you get your estimate so there are no surprises.
How deep does stump grinding usually go?
Depth depends on what you plan to do with the spot afterward. Grinding a few inches below grade is often enough for grass or mulch. Going deeper is typically needed for concrete work or replanting. Talk through your plans with the contractor so they grind to the right depth.
What happens to the wood chips after grinding?
The grindings can stay on site as mulch, be mixed back into the soil, or be hauled away by the contractor. Confirm which option is included in your quote and which costs extra.
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