When preparing a parcel for a new construction project or agricultural purposes, you may need trees and vegetation removed. Understanding how to estimate land clearing expenses can help you set an accurate budget for your new project. Learn about the factors affecting land clearing costs in Georgia with the information found in our land clearing price guide.
Prices Depend on the Property’s Characteristics
The average land clearing cost per acre in Georgia ranges from about $1,000 to $6,000. Some projects may have add-on expenses that push the price outside this range.
The biggest factor affecting the price is the density of vegetation on the parcel. Areas with large, densely packed trees will have a higher price per acre for land clearing services than locations with small trees and vegetation.
Small Trees and Light Vegetation
Parcels with small trees and shrubs often only need forestry mulching services. This is the least expensive technique for land clearing, usually running between $1,000 and $2,500 per acre.
Professionals may only need one machine to do the entire lot, which saves on manpower and equipment transportation costs. This process creates mulch as the machine clears the brush and weeds, meaning debris removal is unnecessary, saving money.
Occasional Large Trees and Moderate Vegetation
Most parcels consist of a few large trees per acre and a few areas with thick underbrush, along with areas with weeds and small trees. Such lots usually cost $2,500 to $4,000 per acre to clear.
Forestry mulching will work for the majority of the space. However, experts may need to use a bulldozer or chainsaws to remove some of the larger trees.
Dense Large Trees and Thick Vegetation
For property that has tightly packed large trees and thick underbrush, the price quote may be $4,000 to $6,000 per acre or more. The experts might be able to use forestry mulching techniques on part of the lot while needing larger equipment on most sections. The large trees may need cutting by hand to guide them to the ground and protect nearby buildings or utility lines.
Additional Costs You Should Consider
Some parcels will have a higher price for land clearing services because of the need for extra services or specialized machinery.
Applying Herbicide After Mulching the Lot
Although forestry mulching is a popular option to save money when clearing a parcel, you may need some additional services. Mulching might not kill the largest tap root plants, as they may be able to regrow from the remaining root. You might need a herbicide application a few weeks later to eliminate these stubborn weeds.
Using Grubbing Techniques With Mulching
If you plan to erect a home or commercial building on the site, forestry mulching removes trees near the ground, but it doesn’t remove stumps. To ensure the firmest ground near your foundation, you might need professionals to perform grubbing techniques near the dig site to remove stumps and large roots.
Obtaining Permits for the Work
Most locations in Georgia do not require permits for removing vegetation and volunteer trees. However, if your project involves cutting down large heritage trees, you might need a permit to remove them. The price for permits varies, depending on your local regulations.
Disposing of the Debris Generated
Forestry mulching leaves the mulch on the land, adding nutrients and enhancing erosion control. However, some projects require the mulch and other items to be removed. If you need the debris burned, moved to a remote area on site, or hauled off site, expect to pay extra.
Slope of the Property
A property with severe hills may need specialized clearing equipment, driving up the price per acre to remove trees and plants.
Investing in Your Parcel With Vegetation Removal
Although there’s an expense associated with land clearing, it’s a key investment in making the parcel usable for a new purpose. By allowing professionals to remove weeds and volunteer trees, you improve the soil’s health and increase the property’s value.
Some people believe they can save with DIY work to clear the property. However, by the time you spend the time and money needed to rent equipment, learn to use it, and deploy it, the savings are negligible or disappear entirely. Professionals do the work quickly, letting you move to the next phase of the project on time.
Instead of Guessing at the Cost, Contact Southern Earth Land Services, LLC
The cost of land clearing in Georgia is difficult for property owners to estimate on their own. Instead of guessing at the price of the job, let our experts at Southern Earth Land Services, LLC give you an accurate estimate. We learn about your plans for the parcel and determine exactly which of our services you need, helping you receive the most favorable price.
To learn more about our services or to receive a free quote, contact us today at (229) 466-4376. We serve Steward County, GA, and the surrounding areas.
