To use a stump grinder, cut the stump low, clear rocks, call 811, then sweep the spinning wheel side to side across the stump a few inches at a time. Work down to 6 to 12 inches below ground, then rake out the chips and fill the hole with topsoil.
Not sure DIY is worth it? Compare with professional stump grinding prices.
Step 1: Prepare the stump
Call 811 a few business days ahead. Cut the stump as low as possible, then dig away soil and rocks around the base so the wheel only touches wood.
Step 2: Put on safety gear
Wear safety glasses, ear protection, gloves, long pants and sturdy boots. Keep children, pets and bystanders at least 50 feet away.
Step 3: Position the grinder
Place the wheel just above the front edge of the stump. Start the engine, engage the wheel and let it reach full speed.
Step 4: Grind in sweeps
Lower the wheel a few inches into the wood and sweep side to side. Move forward a little after each pass. Repeat until the stump is 6 to 12 inches below ground. See how deep to grind.
Step 5: Grind the roots and clean up
Follow visible roots a short way, then rake out the chips. Fill the hole with topsoil as described in how to fill a stump hole.
Keep reading
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DIY Stump Grinder Rental Cost Renting a stump grinder costs about $106 to $135 for four hours or $150 to $400 per day in 2026. Compare rental vs. hiring a pro and what fees to expect. -
Cost guide How Deep Does Stump Grinding Go? Stump grinders typically cut 6 to 12 inches below ground. Learn standard grind depths, when to grind deeper, what it costs and what happens to the roots. -
After grinding How to Fill a Stump Hole How to fill a stump hole after grinding or removal: what soil to use, how much you need, how to stop sinking and how to get grass growing again fast.
Browse all stump guides or go back to the stump grinding costs homepage.
Frequently asked questions
Is it hard to use a stump grinder?
Compact grinders are manageable for most adults but are heavy and vibrate a lot. Expect a learning curve on the first stump.
How long does it take to grind a stump yourself?
About 45 to 60 minutes for a typical stump, longer for large hardwood stumps.
Do I need to call 811 before using a stump grinder?
Yes. Grinders cut below the surface, so have utility lines marked first. The service is free.
How low should I cut the stump before grinding?
Cut it as close to the ground as safely possible, ideally within 4 to 6 inches, to reduce grinding time.
What is the most common stump grinder mistake?
Taking too big a bite. Move the wheel in small sweeps of a few inches to avoid kickback and stalling.
Can a stump grinder hit rocks?
Yes, and it can break teeth and throw debris. Dig away rocks around the stump before you start.
What should I wear when grinding a stump?
Safety glasses, ear protection, gloves, long pants and steel-toe boots.
When should I hire a pro instead?
Hire a pro for stumps over 24 inches, dense hardwoods, stumps near buildings or utilities, or many stumps at once.
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.