Most stump grinders cut 6 to 12 inches below ground level, which is deep enough to lay sod or seed grass. Grinding deeper, up to about 18 inches, is possible for planting or regrading but usually costs 20% to 30% more.
Grind depth affects price. See stump grinding prices by size and state for typical quotes.
Typical grind depths
| Goal | Recommended depth |
|---|---|
| Mulch bed or groundcover | 4–6 inches |
| Sod or grass seed | 6–8 inches |
| Garden bed or shrubs | 8–12 inches |
| Planting a new tree nearby | 12 inches or more |
What affects how deep a grinder can go
Machine size, rocks in the soil and buried utilities all limit depth. Always call 811 before grinding. For next steps, see how to fill a stump hole.
Keep reading
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Cost guide Stump Grinding vs. Stump Removal Stump grinding costs about $210 per stump; full removal costs about $380. Compare cost, time, results and when each option makes sense for your yard. -
Cost guide Tree Root Grinding Cost Grinding surface roots usually adds about $150 per stump, or $100 to $200 an hour. See root grinding prices, when roots need removal and how to keep costs down. -
After grinding What to Do After Stump Grinding What to do after stump grinding: clearing the grindings, filling the hole, regrowing grass, handling roots and stopping sprouts, step by step.
Browse all stump guides or go back to the stump grinding costs homepage.
Frequently asked questions
How deep do stump grinders go?
Standard grinding goes 6 to 12 inches below the surface. Large machines can reach about 18 inches or more.
How deep should a stump be ground for grass?
About 6 inches is enough for sod or grass seed once the chips are replaced with topsoil.
How deep should a stump be ground to plant a new tree?
Grind 12 inches or deeper and remove the grindings, or plant a few feet to the side of the old stump.
Does deeper stump grinding cost more?
Yes. Grinding 12 inches or deeper usually adds about 20% to 30% because it takes longer.
What happens to the roots after grinding?
Roots below the grind depth are left in place and decay over several years.
Can a stump grow back after grinding?
Most will not. Species that sucker, such as willow, poplar and elm, may send up shoots that you can cut back.
Should I specify grind depth in my quote?
Yes. Ask the company to write the grind depth on the quote so you can compare prices fairly.
Will the hole sink after grinding?
As roots and leftover chips decay, the area can settle. Top up with soil after a few months.
Sources and methodology
Last updated . Prices are estimates built from published contractor rates, national cost guides and federal labor data. Read how we calculate prices.