How much does stump grinding cost?
Stump grinding on the Gold Coast and in Brisbane typically costs $150 to $300 for a small stump under 30 cm across, $250 to $500 for a medium stump of 30 to 60 cm, and $400 to $900 for a large stump over 60 cm. Access, roots and how deep you need it ground change the price.
Updated October 2026 by 
Steven Piper
What does stump grinding cost by stump size?
Stump grinders price mainly by diameter, measured across the cut face at ground level. Typical ranges per stump in South East Queensland, including GST:
| Stump diameter | Typical range per stump |
|---|---|
| Small, under 30 cm | $150 to $300 |
| Medium, 30 to 60 cm | $250 to $500 |
| Large, over 60 cm | $400 to $900 |
As a rough rule of thumb, some published price guides suggest multiplying the diameter in centimetres by $2 to $3. One national marketplace puts the average stump removal job at about $225.
What changes the price of stump grinding?
The same size stump can cost quite different amounts. Operators look at:
- Access. Narrow gates and side paths need a smaller machine, which takes longer on big stumps.
- Surface roots. Figs, poincianas and some gums spread roots across the lawn. Chasing them adds time.
- Depth. Grinding to about 200 to 300 mm below ground suits turf. Deeper grinding for a slab, pool or new planting costs more.
- Hardwood. Dense Australian hardwoods grind slower than softwoods and palms.
- Clean-up. Leaving the mulch in the hole is cheapest. Removing it, backfilling with soil and turfing cost extra.
- Underground services. The operator should check for pipes and cables first. You can lodge a free Before You Dig Australia enquiry.
Is stump grinding cheaper than stump removal?
Usually, yes. Grinding chews the stump down below ground level with a machine and leaves the roots to rot. Full removal digs out the stump and main roots, often with an excavator, which takes longer, disturbs more ground and leaves a large hole to fill.
Grinding suits most backyards. Full removal is worth it when you're building over the spot or need the roots gone completely.
Should you grind the stump when the tree comes down?
It often saves money. A tree service that already has a crew on site can grind the stump on the same visit, which avoids a separate callout fee. Ask for it on the tree removal quote.
If you've already had the tree removed, a stump grinding specialist is usually the cheapest option for one or a few stumps.
Compare the best rated stump grinders on the Gold Coast and in Brisbane, or use the form to get quotes from up to 2 local businesses.
Questions people ask
How much does it cost to grind one small stump?
A single small stump under 30 cm across typically costs $150 to $300 to grind, including GST. Some operators have a minimum charge, so one small stump can cost close to the price of two.
Is there a discount for several stumps?
Often the price per stump drops when there are several on one site, because the machine is already there. Ask for a total price for all the stumps rather than a per-stump rate.
How long does stump grinding take?
A small stump with good access can take under an hour. A large hardwood stump with surface roots can take several hours. Ask the operator for an estimate when they quote.
Will the stump grow back after grinding?
Most trees won't regrow once the stump is ground below the surface. Some species can sucker from remaining roots. Mention the species when you ask for a quote.
Sources
- What's The Damage: tree removal prices Brisbane (October 2026)
- What's The Damage: tree removal prices Gold Coast (October 2026)
- GoTreeQuotes: tree removal cost Brisbane (August 2026)
- Airtasker: stump grinding and removal cost
General information only, not legal advice. Council rules change, so confirm with your council before work starts.