| Quick facts | Answer |
|---|---|
| Cost range | $50-$200 per job; stump grinding runs $75-$350 per stump |
| Time | 1 to 2 hours; grinding often done in one day |
| Who's qualified | Ask for proof of insurance and a Horticulture Professional Services License from the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries. |
Gurley, AL: what's different here
Gurley is a town in Madison County, Alabama, in the Huntsville area, about 16 miles and roughly 18 minutes from Huntsville via US-72. Its housing stock is heavily oriented toward detached single-family homes, which make up 80% of units, and 54% of housing is owner-occupied. The area sits in USDA plant hardiness zone 7b, with average annual extreme minimum temperatures of 5 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit.
How deep should surface roots be ground in Gurley?
A common benchmark for complete root and stump work is grinding stumps and bracing roots to 6 inches below grade. That standard comes from a municipal tree-removal bid package. Ask the pro you hire what depth they include in the quote.
How long does surface root grinding take?
Surface root grinding in nearby Owens Cross Roads commonly takes 1 to 2 hours. Stump grinding itself runs 15 minutes to a few hours per stump, and a grinder is often on site for only hours per job. Work is often completed in one day.
Does stump grinding in Gurley require a general contractor license?
Not always. One Alabama city's addendum for a stump-grinding project stated the city was not requiring a State of Alabama General Contractors License. Requirements can vary by job and jurisdiction, so ask before hiring.
How much does full stump grinding cost near Gurley?
Stump grinding in Gurley, AL typically costs $75-$350 per stump. Another Huntsville-area guide says grinding starts at about $100, can run to $600, and averages around $225. Surface roots are usually priced as a small add-on.
How fast can a Gurley pro respond and finish?
As a benchmark, one municipal bid package required contractors to respond within 3 business days of notification and complete removal within 10 business days of authorization. Independent pros may work faster. Ask about scheduling when you get your quote.
What to do next
- Ask each pro to quote the surface root grinding depth in writing - 6 inches below grade is a common benchmark.
- Verify the pro holds a Horticulture Professional Services License with the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries, and ask for proof of insurance.
- Ask whether surface roots are priced as an add-on to the per-stump rate, and get both numbers in the quote.
- Confirm the response time and completion window before authorizing the work.
- Call (256) 578-4701 or email [email protected] for a free quote from an independent, insured stump grinding pro.
HSV Stump Guy is a free referral service: an independent contractor does the work and may pay us a referral fee. You never pay us anything.


