About Steve
Meet Steve, the owner of Steve's Trees!
Steve Pryba has been maintaining Toledo's trees for over 20 years. Born and raised in the Toledo area, Steve started in the tree business learning from his family.
In 2008, Steve's Tree Service open its doors. If you ask Steve what his role is on the jobsite – he will say he is a climber. Even as an owner, you will find Steve managing and climbing on almost every job he does, especially the ones that require the most equipment and training.
Because of his work on the job site – he is constantly coaching, monitoring, and creating an environment for his employees that promotes safety and what’s best for the trees. When quoting tree work, tree care is at the forefront, not just removal. There are times trees need to be removed, but managing tree care is important to Steve.
His love for outdoors translates to his personal life as well. Steve enjoys year around outdoor activities from snowmobiling, camping, boating and making lifetime memories with his daughter Caroline. You might find Caroline and Steve out on a four wheeler if he takes a day for himself, coaching her and training her on safety of equipment all while having fun!
Steve doesn’t stop when the sun goes down, his focus on wellness through martial arts helps him develop discipline and a healthy mindset to increase flexibility & strength to be able to safely climb trees. Steve and his daughter Caroline reside in Toledo.
Your Local, Certified, And Fully‑Insured Tree Care Experts
At Steve’s Tree Service, safety, compliance, and professionalism are the foundation of every project we undertake. Owner Steve Pryba and his experienced team have served many customers across the Toledo area while maintaining strict adherence to industry safety standards and insurance requirements. Our company is fully insured, protecting both our crew and your property on every job site.
Steve ensures that every job is performed using proper procedures, certified equipment, and trained personnel. Our team includes a certified arborist and highly trained ground crews who follow established safety protocols and industry best practices.
From routine pruning to large crane-assisted tree removals and excavation, we approach each project with careful planning, risk management, and regulatory compliance. We carry comprehensive insurance coverage and prioritize responsible tree care methods that protect your property, your landscape, and our team. Every estimate is provided with transparency and professionalism, and every job is completed with a commitment to safety, accountability, and customer satisfaction.
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Steve's Tree Service Team - Your Arborist of Choice in Toledo, OH
About Steve's Tree Service
Steve Pryba's " Steve’s Tree Services" is one of Northwest Ohio's most referred tree care companies.
Proudly serving 1000's of customers since 2008. With years of experience and custom built cranes, we specialize in difficult and crane tree removal services. We are capable of tackling any project, no matter how complex or hard to reach.
From delicate tree pruning to lot clearing, brush clean up, stump grinding and general excavation you can count on us. We are reliable and stay on the job until it's complete in a safe and courteous manner to you and your neighbors.
With dedicated, year round employees, advanced climbers and investment into the best equipment for the job. Let us show you why people that call us, refer us! We look forward to taking exceptional care of your tree service needs.
We are passionate about taking care of our communities trees in using sustainable techniques that are minimally invasive to your property and the environment. We strive to provide quality tree care and customer service. We have a full team including a mechanic, crane operator, experienced grounds crew and a certified arborist on staff. With over 20 years of experience, we are Toledo's arborists of choice!
Comprehensive Tree Services
We offer a full spectrum of tree care for residential and commercial properties across Northwest Ohio. Our core services include:
Tree removal & crane‑assisted removal
Whether a tree is hazardous, diseased, or inconveniently located, our certified arborists provide safe and efficient removals. Crane‑assisted removal reduces risk, minimizes property damage, and increases efficiency. We handle hard‑to‑reach trees, large hardwoods, and jobs near power lines.
Tree trimming & pruning
Proper pruning stimulates healthy growth and keeps your yard attractive. Our services include crown thinning, deadwood removal, branch raising, structural, and vista pruning. Our ISA‑certified arborists understand the climate and soil conditions in Toledo and tailor pruning schedules accordingly.
24/7 emergency storm damage cleanup
When storms strike, we answer your call any time of day and dispatch a certified crew to remove fallen or wounded trees. We use specialized equipment, prioritize safety, provide complete cleanup, and even assist with insurance documentation.
Stump grinding
Unsightly stumps are ground below soil level to eliminate tripping hazards and prevent regrowth. Our compact machines minimize disruption to your landscaping, and we recycle the wood chips for mulch or disposal.
Lot clearing & brush removal
Preparing land for construction or reclaiming overgrown areas? We perform complete or partial clearing, brush removal, and stump grinding. Our heavy‑duty equipment and experienced team ensure efficient, environmentally responsible results.
Firewood delivery
Seasoned for at least eight months, our hardwood firewood is split, seasoned, and delivered directly to you. A one‑cord minimum applies, and we service Maumee, Perrysburg, Holland, Sylvania, Ottawa Hills, Waterville, and Whitehouse.
Excavation & grading
Beyond tree care, we offer excavation services, grading, and leveling to prepare your property for new projects. Our operators handle digging, hauling, and heavy‑duty tasks with precision.
Tailored Tree Care For Every Community
Toledo: In Ohio’s largest city, tight lot lines, mature trees, and exposure to severe weather require specialized care. We perform large tree removals, precision trimming near homes, and 24/7 storm cleanup across Toledo’s neighborhoods.
Perrysburg & Maumee: Mature landscapes in Perrysburg and Maumee need regular pruning, disease management, and careful removals to protect lawns, driveways, and structures. Our certified arborists deliver meticulous trimming and safe removals designed for these suburban settings.
Bowling Green: From residential yards to larger properties, Bowling Green residents rely on us for routine trimming, full removals, and storm‑damage repairs. We help maintain healthy trees while addressing aging growth and weather‑related hazards.
Sylvania, Whitehouse & Waterville: Suburban communities like Sylvania, Whitehouse, and Waterville demand precise tree work near homes, fences, and power lines. Our skilled operators use cranes and compact equipment to complete jobs efficiently without unnecessary disruption.
Why Choose Steve’s Tree Service?
Local expertise: Born and raised in the Toledo area, owner Steve Pryba and his team know Northwest Ohio’s tree species and weather patterns.
Certified and experienced: We employ an ISA‑certified arborist and have more than 20 years of field experience.
Fully insured & safety‑focused: Our crews operate under strict safety protocols and are fully insured. We use cranes, bucket trucks, and advanced equipment for precise, low‑impact removals.
Modern equipment: Custom‑built cranes enable us to access hard‑to‑reach trees and minimize property damage.
Comprehensive services: From tree trimming and removal to stump grinding, lot clearing, firewood delivery, and excavation, we handle every aspect of tree care.
24/7 availability: We provide emergency storm damage cleanup around the clock, responding quickly when disaster strikes.
Sustainable practices: We use minimally invasive, eco‑friendly techniques to protect your property and the environment.
Free quotes & satisfaction guarantee: We offer free consultations and transparent estimates, and we back our work with a 100 % satisfaction guarantee.
Key Considerations When Hiring Tree Trimming, Removal & Crane Services in Northwest Ohio
Hiring a tree care company is not just about price. It’s about safety, expertise, compliance, and protecting your property. Before selecting a tree service provider in Northwest Ohio, consider the following technical and safety-driven factors:
1. ISA Certification & Professional Credentials
Tree work should be evaluated or supervised by an ISA-certified arborist. Certification ensures proper diagnosis of disease, structural defects, and pruning methods based on ANSI A300 standards. An experienced arborist understands Northwest Ohio’s species, soil conditions, and seasonal pruning windows.
2. Proof of Insurance & Workers’ Compensation
Tree removal is one of the most hazardous professions in the U.S. Always verify:
- General liability insurance
- Workers’ compensation coverage
- Proper licensing where required by local municipalities
This protects homeowners from financial liability in the event of property damage or injury.
3. Power Line & Utility Awareness
Northwest Ohio neighborhoods frequently have trees growing near overhead power lines. Reputable companies:
- Maintain minimum 10-foot clearance from energized lines
- Coordinate with utility providers when necessary
- Call 811 before digging for stump grinding or excavation
Improper handling near utilities can lead to electrocution, outages, or major liability issues.
4. Proper Pruning Techniques (Not Topping)
Avoid companies that “top” trees. Proper pruning should include:
- Removal of dead, diseased, and damaged limbs (the 3-D rule)
- Cuts made at the branch collar
- No more than 25–30% canopy removal in one season
- Crown thinning and structural pruning based on species
Late-winter dormant pruning is typically ideal in Northern Ohio to reduce stress and pest vulnerability.
5. Structural & Storm Risk Assessment
Given Northwest Ohio’s exposure to severe wind and ice storms, a qualified tree service should assess:
- Co-dominant stems
- Included bark
- Leaning trees
- Root plate instability
- Deadwood or decay
Preventative pruning can significantly reduce storm damage risk.
6. When Crane-Assisted Removal Is Necessary
Crane removal is not always required, but in tight lots, near homes, fences, or power lines, it dramatically improves safety and minimizes property damage. Ask:
- Is the crane operator certified?
- Are outriggers properly stabilized?
- Are pieces lifted in controlled sections?
- Is a designated drop zone established?
Crane-assisted removal reduces lawn damage, increases efficiency, and improves jobsite safety on large hardwood removals common in Toledo, Perrysburg, Sylvania, and Maumee.
7. Site Protection & Property Care
Professional crews should:
- Lay plywood or mats to protect lawns
- Clear vehicles and outdoor furniture
- Establish clear escape routes and safety perimeters
- Provide complete cleanup and debris removal
Tree work should improve your property, not damage it.
8. Emergency Availability
Storms do not wait for business hours. A reliable tree service should offer:
- 24/7 emergency response
- Rapid dispatch of trained crews
- Safe removal of fallen or compromised trees
- Assistance with insurance documentation if needed
9. Transparent Estimates & Detailed Scope of Work
A written estimate should clearly outline:
- Work to be performed
- Equipment to be used
- Safety procedures
- Cleanup responsibilities
- Total cost with no hidden fees
Professional companies provide clear communication before, during, and after the job.
Why This Matters in Northwest Ohio
From mature Toledo neighborhoods with tight lot lines to open properties in Bowling Green and Waterville, tree care requires localized expertise. Heavy clay soils, lake-effect winds, aging hardwoods, and seasonal storms demand experienced crews using modern equipment and certified safety protocols.
Ready To Work With Toledo’s Arborist Of Choice?
Whether you need routine tree maintenance or emergency storm cleanup, Steve’s Tree Service is here to help. From Toledo to Bowling Green, Perrysburg, Maumee, Sylvania, Whitehouse, and Waterville, we provide safe, efficient, and reliable tree care tailored to Northwest Ohio.