How to Remove a Tree Stump by Hand

By the Stump Grinding Costs editorial team Reviewed by Amanda Ignash, ISA Certified Arborist® Updated Sourced price data

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To remove a stump by hand, dig a trench around it, cut the exposed roots with a mattock or root saw, then rock and lever the stump out. It works best on stumps under about 10 inches and takes 2 to 16 hours depending on size and soil.

Digging out a tree stump by hand with a mattock, roots exposed in a trench

Digging is hard work. Compare it with the cost of professional stump grinding before you start.

Digging out a tree stump by hand with a mattock, roots exposed in a trench
Trench around the stump to expose the roots, then cut them one by one.

Step 1: Call 811 and clear the area

Have utilities marked, then clear grass and mulch around the stump.

Step 2: Dig a trench

Dig about 1 to 2 feet out from the stump and as deep as the main roots. Spray soil away with a hose to expose roots.

Step 3: Cut the roots

Chop through each root with a mattock or cut it with a root saw.

Chopping tree stump roots with a mattock to remove a stump by hand
Chop each root with a mattock.

Step 4: Lever the stump out

Rock the stump and pry under it with a digging bar. Cut any roots still holding it.

Levering a loosened tree stump out of the ground with a digging bar
Lever the loosened stump out once the roots are cut.

Step 5: Fill the hole

Fill with topsoil and tamp it down. See how to fill a stump hole.

Tools that make it easier

Best for roots

Pick mattock

  • Chops through roots and breaks hard soil
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Best for thick roots

Root saw

  • Cuts roots in dirt without dulling as fast
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Best for leverage

Digging bar

  • Pries the stump loose once roots are cut
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Keep reading

Browse all stump guides or go back to the stump grinding costs homepage.

Frequently asked questions

Can you remove a tree stump by hand?

Yes, for small stumps up to about 10 inches. Larger stumps are much harder and are usually better ground.

What tools do I need to dig out a stump?

A mattock, round-point shovel, root saw or axe, digging bar and gloves. A garden hose helps expose roots.

How long does it take to dig out a stump?

From about 2 hours for a small shrub stump to 16 hours or more for a larger one.

How much does it cost to remove a stump by hand?

Tools cost about $65 to $125 if you buy a mattock, shovel and digging bar. The rest is your labor.

How deep do I need to dig to remove a stump?

Dig until the main roots are exposed, usually 1 to 2 feet deep for small trees.

Should I use a car or truck to pull a stump?

It is risky. Chains can snap and stumps can release suddenly. Use hand tools or hire a pro instead.

Is digging out a stump better than grinding?

Digging removes the roots completely, which is useful before building, but grinding is faster for most yards.

What do I do with the hole?

Fill it with topsoil, tamp it down and top it up after it settles.

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.