Emergency tree removal on the Gold Coast and in Brisbane
A tree on the house, across the driveway or tangled in powerlines after a storm. Here's what to do first, who to call, and the businesses on our lists that say they take emergency jobs around the clock.
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What to do first
In this order. Tree work comes last, once the scene is safe.
- 1
Get everyone clear
Keep people and pets away from the tree and anything it's resting on. A tree on a roof can shift as the wind drops or the branches settle. If anyone is hurt or in danger, call 000.
- 2
Powerlines involved? Stay 10 metres back
Energex says to assume fallen lines are live, stay at least 10 metres away and warn others. Call 000 or Energex on 13 19 62, and wait for Energex to make it safe before any tree work starts.
- 3
Make the house safe
For storm damage that isn't life threatening, the SES can put temporary emergency measures in place to make your home safe. Call 132 500 or use the SES Assistance QLD app. The SES doesn't do permanent repairs, and clearing debris is generally up to you, your insurer or a private contractor.
- 4
Take photos, then call your insurer
Photograph the tree and the damage before anything is moved. If you plan to claim, talk to your insurer before you book work, so you know what they'll pay for.
- 5
Book a tree crew
Once it's safe, a tree service can cut the tree off the structure and clear it. Use the form for 2 quick quotes, or call one of the businesses below.
24/7 tree services on the Gold Coast
Businesses on our Gold Coast lists that say they take emergency jobs around the clock. Call ahead: during a big storm, everyone is flat out.
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JC Tree ServicesGaven base, covers the whole Gold Coast · 4.9★ from 213 reviews
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Mint Tree ServicesMiami base, covers the Gold Coast · 5.0★ from 116 reviews
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Heritage Tree CareMolendinar depot for the Gold Coast, part of a South East Queensland operation · 4.6★ from 103 reviews
24/7 tree services in Brisbane
Businesses on our Brisbane lists that say they take emergency jobs around the clock. Call ahead: during a big storm, everyone is flat out.
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Treesafe Environmental ServicesLogan Village base, covers Brisbane southside, Logan, Redlands and Ipswich · 4.9★ from 177 reviews
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Heritage Tree CareSumner depot, covers Brisbane with branches in Redlands, Gold Coast and Toowoomba · 4.6★ from 103 reviews
Emergency tree questions
Who removes a tree that's fallen on powerlines?
Don't touch it, and don't let a tree crew touch it until Energex has made the lines safe. Call 000 or Energex on 13 19 62 and stay at least 10 metres away. Energex looks after the network up to the first point of contact on your property.
Who removes a fallen council tree?
Trees on footpaths, nature strips and parks belong to council. Report a fallen council tree to your council. If it has fallen onto your property, ask council how it will be cleared before you hire anyone.
Will the SES remove a tree from my yard?
The SES does temporary emergency work to make your home safe. For permanent repairs and debris, it tells people to contact their insurer or a private contractor.
Does emergency tree work cost more?
Usually. After-hours call-outs, cranes and working a tree off a damaged roof all add to the price. Ask for the call-out rate up front, and get a written quote before work starts if it isn't a true emergency.
Do I need council approval to remove a storm-damaged tree?
Dangerous trees can often be made safe without waiting, but the rules differ between councils. On the Gold Coast, trees a council Level 5 arborist deems dangerous don't need approval. In Brisbane, protected vegetation can be worked on to manage a hazard, but you may still need a permit. Check our Brisbane and Gold Coast guides, and keep photos of the damage.
Sources: Energex, report fallen powerlines · Queensland SES assistance. Updated October 2026.