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Stump grinders: a plain guide for tree service owners

A stump grinder uses a spinning cutting wheel to turn a stump into chips below ground level. It is one of the best add-on services for a tree company, because most removals leave a stump. This guide covers the main types, which jobs they fit, how to think about buying or renting and what to ask a dealer.

By Umair Nawaz, Lirevon. Last reviewed: October 2026. General information with no brand names; Lirevon does not sell equipment.

What it is

A stump grinder has a cutting wheel with teeth, a boom or arm that sweeps the wheel side to side and a way to lower it into the stump. The operator sweeps the wheel back and forth, lowering it a little each pass, until the stump is ground below grade.

The result is a pile of chips and a hole. The crew then fills the hole with chips and soil, or hauls them away, depending on the quote. Homeowners can read the plain options on our stump removal page.

Types and sizes

Cutting wheel sizes, engine power and weights vary a lot, so use the maker's data sheet and your own gate and slope measurements.

Walk-behind (handlebar) grinder

Size and style: Compact and often narrow enough for a gate

Fits: Backyards, small and medium stumps

Watch out for: Hard work on slopes and for big stumps; tiring for the operator

Tracked walk-behind or remote-style

Size and style: Tracks give grip on slopes and soft ground

Fits: Hills, wet yards, residential work

Watch out for: Heavier to move; needs a ramp or trailer plan

Mid-size self-propelled

Size and style: Rides or drives on tracks or wheels

Fits: Regular stump work with a larger wheel

Watch out for: Cost and transport are bigger

Large tow-behind or truck-mounted

Size and style: High production for big stumps

Fits: Parks, utility and clearing work

Watch out for: Not suited to small yards; high cost

Attachment for a skid steer or loader

Size and style: Works with a machine you already own

Fits: Many stumps in open ground

Watch out for: Needs a compatible machine and hydraulic flow

What jobs it fits

Stumps left after tree removals, the most common job for a tree company.
Land clearing, where many stumps need to go.
Stumps in lawns where the owner wants to replant or install sod.
Stump work for property managers, builders and landscapers.
Storm cleanup, where fallen trees leave root balls and stumps.

Not sure which jobs pay best? Our equipment guide and guide to estimating tree jobs help you match machines to work.

Comparison table

A quick side-by-side. It is general and not a ranking. The right choice depends on your trees, your sites and your budget.

Comparison of stump grinders options
Option	Best for	Main plus	Watch out for
Walk-behind	Backyards and gates	Fits tight spots	Hard on slopes and large stumps
Tracked unit	Slopes and soft ground	Grip and control	Weight and transport
Large self-propelled	High stump volume	Faster work	Cost and size
Skid steer attachment	Open ground clearing	Uses a machine you own	Needs the right hydraulic flow
Rent a grinder	Testing or one big job	No big upfront cost	Availability and day rates

Buy or rent

Do not decide on feel. Put your own hours, rates and costs into the free equipment buy-versus-rent tool. Then think about these points.

Buy when

You grind stumps most weeks and can bill enough to cover the machine, teeth and upkeep.

Rent when

You only grind a few stumps a month, you want a bigger machine for a one-time clearing job, or you are testing the service.

Think about teeth

Cutting teeth wear and break. They are a regular cost, so ask what a set costs and how often you will change them.

Think about transport

A tracked grinder needs a trailer, a ramp and a safe way to load. Include that in your cost.

Price the service

Use the stump grinding estimator with your own numbers so each job pays for the machine.

Safety and training basics

These are general points, not a training course. Always follow the maker's manual, your insurer and US and state safety rules. Short explanation, not legal advice.

Clear the area of people and pets. Flying chips and rocks can travel a long way.
Wear eye or face protection, hearing protection, boots and long sleeves.
Call 811 before you dig or grind so buried lines are marked.
Look for rocks, fences, sprinkler heads and buried metal before you start.
Keep the wheel guard in place and never reach near the wheel while it spins.
Follow the maker's manual and train every operator. This is general information, not safety or legal advice.

Also see our job site safety guide.

What to ask a dealer

Take this list with you and write down the answers. Ask for them in writing. A good dealer will not mind.

What is the maximum cutting depth and width, and what is typical in real work?
How wide is the machine, and will it fit through a standard gate?
How much do teeth cost and how long do they last in the soil I work in?
What service does the engine and drive need, and who can do it nearby?
What is the warranty, and what does it exclude?
Can I rent first to see if it fits my work?
How is the machine loaded and secured for transport?

Compare at least two quotes, and use your own numbers when you check the cost. If you want your phone answered while you shop and work, see our services, pricing or ask for a free audit.

Common questions

What size stump grinder should I buy first?

Many small companies start with a compact walk-behind or tracked unit because it fits gates and handles most residential stumps. Measure your typical stumps and gates, then compare with the maker's data. Rent one first if you can.

Should I rent or buy a stump grinder?

If you grind a few stumps a month, renting is often cheaper. If you grind most weeks, owning can pay off. Use the buy-versus-rent tool with your own numbers.

How deep does a stump grinder cut?

It depends on the machine. Many go a few inches to about a foot or more below ground. Ask the dealer for the maker's rating and decide what depth your quotes promise.

How do I price stump grinding?

Many companies price by stump diameter and add extras for roots, slopes, access or cleanup. Build your own price list with the estimator tool and get local quotes for comparison.

What are the dangers of stump grinding?

Flying debris, hitting buried lines or rocks and contact with the cutting wheel are the main risks. Clear the area, wear protection, call 811 and follow the manual. General information, not safety advice.

Do I need to call 811 before grinding?

In most places, yes, since grinding digs into the ground. 811 is the national call-before-you-dig number. Rules vary, so this is a short explanation, not legal advice. Check your state.

What do I do with the chips after grinding?

You can fill the hole with chips and soil, haul them away, or leave a pile for the owner. Say which in your quote so there are no surprises.

How often do stump grinder teeth wear out?

It depends on soil, rocks and how many stumps you grind. Sandy or rocky ground wears teeth faster. Ask the dealer what a set costs and keep spares on the truck.

This page is general information, not legal, tax or safety advice. Lirevon does not sell equipment, and no brands are named on purpose.

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