Tree Value Calculator

Tree value uses the trunk formula method: Volume = DBH² × Height × Form Factor. For timber, value is $/board foot (MBF). For urban trees, value uses CTLA (Council of Tree and Landscape Appraisers) formula: DBH² × Species × Location × Condition. Timber value: $200-800/MBF for hardwoods, $100-400 for softwoods. Urban trees: $500-25,000+ depending on size and location. Property value increase: mature landscaping adds 5-15% to home value.

Doyle Log Rule: Board Feet = (DBH in inches - 4)² ÷ 4 for logs > 20" DBH. For example, a 20" oak: (20-4)² ÷ 4 = 64 BF per 8-foot log. Multiple logs: scale each 8-foot section. International 1/4 Rule is more accurate: BF = (d² × 0.055) - 0.30 × d for each 4-foot section. For standing timber, use 50-70% of sawlog value. This calculator estimates timber value, not stumpage (standing) value which is 30-50% of lumber value.

In many cases, yes. Municipalities: protected trees require replacement or mitigation fees ($100-1,000+ per inch removed). HOA: CC&Rs often require replacement. Development: environmental impact fees apply. Private: if tree is boundary or shared, legal issues arise. For timber on your land, you keep sale value. For protected trees without permit, fines can be 2-5x mitigation cost. Always check local tree ordinance BEFORE removal. Compensation is typically based on trunk DBH × species factor × location × condition.

In order of impact: Species (oak > maple > pine), DBH (squared relationship - 2x DBH = 4x value), Condition (good vs poor = 3x+ value), Location (urban > suburban > rural = 2-3x range). A 20" healthy oak in an urban setting might be worth $5,000-15,000+ in property value, while the same tree in rural forest $200-500 in timber. Appraisal uses CTLA formula - hire a certified arborist for official appraisal. For insurance, document with photos and measurements.