The time to prepare Savannah trees for hurricane season is before the August-to-October peak: have a tree professional inspect any tree that could reach your house, remove dead and broken limbs, thin or shorten branches over the roof, and secure loose yard items. Atlantic hurricane season runs June 1 to November 30 and local searches for tree service climb from July through October.
Why Savannah trees take a beating
Savannah does not need a direct hit to lose trees. During Hurricane Matthew on October 7–8, 2016, the National Weather Service in Charleston recorded a peak gust of 62 knots (about 71 mph) at Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, and more than 11 inches of rain there, with 17.49 inches at Hunter Army Airfield. The NWS reported "many other trees and power lines down across" Chatham County, and numerous trees blown down across interior Tybee Island (NWS Charleston, Matthew).
Weaker storms matter too. Hurricane Idalia in August 2023 brought gusts of 52 mph at the airport and 69 mph on South Tybee Island (NWS Idalia gusts). Tropical Storm Debby in August 2024 dropped 10.44 inches at the airport (NWS Debby rainfall). Rain like that saturates the ground. Much of Chatham County is mapped as poorly drained, with soils such as Ellabelle holding a water table at or near the surface for months each year (NRCS). Wet soil plus wind is when large trees lean or uproot.
A season-by-season prep timeline
Late winter to spring
Walk the yard and note dead limbs, leaning trees, cracks and fungus at the base. Schedule an inspection while tree companies have more open time.
June and July
Have deadwood removed and branches over the roof, driveway and power drop shortened or thinned before the peak months.
August to October
Peak season. Keep gutters and drains clear, pick up fallen limbs after each storm, and watch the forecast.
After a storm
Document damage, keep clear of downed lines, and call for help with hangers and leaning trees.
What to have a tree professional check
- Trees within striking distance of the house, garage, fence or a neighbor's home.
- Dead or broken limbs ("deadwood"), which are the first pieces to fly in high wind.
- Limbs over the roof and branches rubbing shingles or gutters.
- Cracks, cavities and decay in the trunk or major branch unions.
- Leaning trees, especially if the lean is new or the soil is heaving on one side.
- Root damage from recent construction, trenching or driveway work.
- Branches near the service line to the house. Lines on the utility side are the power company's job; don't let anyone untrained work near them.
Good storm pruning removes weak and dead wood and reduces weight at the ends of long limbs. Ask the company how much of the canopy it plans to remove and why. Heavy "topping" or stripping out inner branches can leave a tree weaker.
Questions to ask before you hire tree work
Georgia has no state arborist license. When you compare companies, ask:
- Is anyone on the crew ISA certified? This is a private credential; you can verify it at isa-arbor.com.
- Can you show proof of liability insurance and workers' comp for the crew?
- Exactly which limbs or trees are you removing, and is cleanup, hauling and stump grinding included?
- Does this tree need a permit?
On permits: In the City of Savannah, trees on city property, including the tree lawn between the sidewalk and the street, are managed by the City. Rules for trees on private lots depend on your property type and whether development is involved. Before removing a large tree, check with the City of Savannah (savannahga.gov) or your county. Unincorporated Chatham County, Pooler and Richmond Hill have their own rules. For a city tree in front of your home, contact the City's Park and Tree department through 311. This is general information, not legal advice.
What storm-season tree work typically costs
Published cost guides list these Savannah figures (typical ranges from published cost guides (2026) — estimates, not quotes):
| Service | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Tree trimming | about $356 average; most $180–$650; large trees $800–$1,000 |
| Tree removal | about $652 average |
| Stump grinding | about $264 average |
| Lawn & garden cleanup, per visit | $143–$380 (average about $262) |
Big live oaks, trees over the house and jobs needing a bucket truck or crane cost more. Scheduling early, before storms are in the forecast, gives you time to compare written quotes. See the full Savannah landscaping and tree prices.
Secure the rest of the yard
- Bring in or tie down patio furniture, grills, planters, trampolines and decorations.
- Clear gutters, downspouts and yard drains so heavy rain can run off.
- Pick up fallen branches and pine cones that can become projectiles.
- Turn off irrigation when a storm is forecast; the ground will get plenty of water.
- Take dated photos of your trees and yard for insurance records.
After the storm
Stay away from downed power lines and report them to the utility. Don't climb ladders or run a chainsaw in a damaged canopy; hanging limbs and trees under tension are jobs for a trained crew. Photograph the damage before cleanup. Once it is safe, companies that offer tree removal in Savannah can take down broken or uprooted trees, and companies that offer yard cleanup can haul limbs and debris. Lawns that sat under standing water may thin out; give them time to dry before deciding on re-sodding. Our grass guide covers which lawns suit wet and salty sites.
Get tree quotes before peak season
We connect Savannah-area homeowners with independent local lawn care, landscaping and tree companies for free, no-obligation quotes. The company you choose quotes, contracts and does the work directly with you. For an inspection, tree trimming or removal, request a free quote and compare local tree companies.