Land Clearing Services: Cost Per Acre and What’s Included
Thinking about transforming your property in 2026? Whether you’re prepping land for a new home, farm, or business venture, understanding land clearing costs per acre is essential. Discover what factors affect pricing, what services are included, and how to budget smartly for your project.
Land clearing turns overgrown parcels into usable sites for building, agriculture, or habitat management, but costs vary widely by vegetation density, access, terrain, and disposal needs. In 2026, estimating per‑acre pricing requires separating service types (forestry mulching, conventional clearing, or full removal with haul‑off) and clarifying add‑ons like stump extraction, erosion control, and grading. The overview below outlines common inclusions, the biggest price drivers in the U.S., and practical steps to select dependable local services while staying compliant with permits and environmental rules.
Average Land Clearing Costs per Acre in 2026
Per‑acre pricing in 2026 typically falls into ranges based on method and site conditions. Forestry mulching that tackles brush, saplings, and small trees often ranges from about $400 to $1,500 per acre in light to moderate brush, reaching $2,500+ per acre in dense regrowth or on steep slopes. Conventional clearing with dozers and excavators—felling, piling, and optional chipping—commonly runs $2,000 to $5,000 per acre. Full clearing with stump removal and debris haul‑off can span $3,000 to $7,500+ per acre, with mobilization, landfill fees, and fuel affecting totals. Extras such as erosion controls, seeding, or rough grading add cost but may be required by permits.
Key Services Included in Land Clearing
A typical scope starts with a site walk and utility locate (811) to mark underground lines. Vegetation removal may include cutting, mulching, or mechanical extraction of trees and brush. Grubbing removes roots and stumps to prevent regrowth, while selective clearing preserves specimen trees when requested. Debris handling options include on‑site mulching, chipping, burning where allowed, or hauling to a permitted facility. Light grading or backfilling stump holes helps stabilize the site. Many projects also specify erosion and sediment controls (silt fence, wattles) and seed or mulch to reduce runoff. Final cleanup, access path restoration, and basic documentation are often included in well‑defined scopes.
Factors That Influence Clearing Prices in the U.S.
Several variables drive pricing beyond acreage alone. Tree density, average trunk diameter, and species hardness change how much machine time is needed. Slope, rocky soils, wetlands, and poor access can slow production and raise costs. Disposal method—mulching in place versus chipping and hauling—significantly affects per‑acre totals. Environmental constraints, protected trees or habitats, and seasonal restrictions can extend schedules. Regional labor rates, equipment availability, fuel prices, and mobilization distance also matter. In some markets, valuable timber may offset part of the cost if harvesting is feasible under local rules.
Permits and Legal Considerations for Landowners
Before work begins, confirm what your city or county requires in your area. Grading or land disturbance thresholds may trigger permits and a site erosion plan. Stormwater regulations can require silt controls, stabilized entrances, and inspections. Tree protection ordinances may limit removals or mandate mitigation. Work near streams, wetlands, or floodplains can involve state agencies or the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Burn permits and smoke‑management rules are common where open burning is allowed. Always schedule a utility locate (call 811) and verify contractor insurance and licensing. Document property boundaries and any conservation easements to avoid encroachments.
Tips for Choosing a Reliable Land Clearing Contractor
Seek itemized, written bids that separate clearing, grubbing, debris handling, erosion controls, and grading so you can compare like‑for‑like. Ask for proof of general liability and workers’ compensation, equipment lists, and recent project references. A pre‑bid site walk with each contractor reduces scope gaps. Clarify production rates, change‑order procedures, traffic control (if roadside), restoration standards for access paths, and who pays landfill or tipping fees. For local services, prioritize firms with documented safety programs and experience on parcels similar to yours.
To illustrate typical options available to landowners, here are real providers and common service types with broad, per‑acre cost estimates based on industry patterns. Actual quotes depend on on‑site assessments and may differ materially.
| Product/Service | Provider | Cost Estimation |
|---|---|---|
| Forestry mulching (brush/saplings, no haul‑off) | Davey Resource Group (DRG) | $400–$1,500 per acre in light brush; up to ~$2,500 in dense areas |
| Right‑of‑way or conventional clearing (fell and pile) | Asplundh | ~$2,000–$5,000 per acre depending on density and access |
| Mechanical clearing with stump removal and haul‑off | Lewis Tree Service | ~$3,000–$7,500+ per acre based on tree size and disposal method |
| Selective thinning/fuels reduction (mastication) | ArborWorks, Inc. | ~$800–$3,000 per acre influenced by slope and equipment needed |
| Utility corridor clearing with chipping (excl. traffic control) | Wright Tree Service | ~$1,500–$4,500 per acre; add‑ons vary by corridor constraints |
Prices, rates, or cost estimates mentioned in this article are based on the latest available information but may change over time. Independent research is advised before making financial decisions.
Conclusion Well‑scoped land clearing balances cost, environmental compliance, and future site plans. In 2026, light mulching can be comparatively affordable, while full removal with stump extraction and hauling commands higher budgets. Clear inclusions, verified permits, and thorough contractor vetting reduce surprises and help landowners achieve stable, build‑ready ground with fewer delays.
