Land clearing has various benefits, from eliminating hazards to increasing property value. How much does land clearing cost in Shelby County, TX? From our experience at ABDT MGMT LLC, the price varies depending on the project’s scope.
Of course, to understand how much it may cost, you need estimates from trustworthy contractors. Still, we’re here to help you ballpark your expected land clearing bill beforehand.
Starting With Averages
Recent data from Angi puts Texas land clearing prices per acre between $500 and $5,600. Factors affecting land clearing expenses directly tie into such factors as:
- How you intend to use the lot
- How much overgrowth you need removed
- What type of vegetation you need removed
- How much of the hardscape, like rocks, you need removed
- How much landscape grading or leveling you need
Some contractors also charge hourly labor expenses, usually between $110 and $250 as of 2025. Always request an itemized invoice when discussing quotes with land clearing contractors.
Point by Point
While the above range might seem quite broad, there are many finer details that go into the cost of land clearing in Shelby County. Here are a few of them for you to explore.
Complexity of the Job
As you can expect, simpler projects will cost less than complex ones.
For example, cutting down a few small trees will cost less than extensive large tree and brush removal. If you need level land, a flat prairie likely won’t need much extra work. However, plots with lots of divots or hills require more effort to flatten.
Machinery: Yes, No, or How Much?
Some contractors may be able to complete simpler jobs with common tools that you’d find at any hardware store. Others require heavy-duty machinery.
Consider the following four categories:
- Basic: This category includes mostly manual tools, such as wheelbarrows, shovels, or rakes.
- Intermediate: Now you get into more mechanical tools, like trimmers or chainsaws.
- Expert: These are tools you must sit in to operate, including bulldozers and other surface-level machines.
- Master: Your project requires durable machines like excavators and mulchers to remove overgrown plant life. This category also includes specialty machines for specific uses.
Permits and Regulations
Business or construction projects in Shelby County require building permits. Land clearing often falls under this umbrella. We suggest checking with the county for potential exceptions, like clearing land for personal or recreational use.
Certain cases require specialty permits that take more time and money to process. Here are a few to consider:
- Zoning laws: You must comply with local zoning laws. Ensuring you do may require a legal consultation cost.
- Bodies of water: If your land has lakes, rivers, or other water bodies, you may need a special permit that may cost extra.
- Protected species: You may need land assessments and permits if you or your contractor suspects there may be a protected species on your land.
If a permit seems excessive, remember that penalties for failing to adhere to local laws will cost you even more. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Ever Considered Forestry Mulching?
Forestry mulching is a type of land clearing that focuses on eco-friendly processes. The resulting plant matter serves as mulch to nourish the soil, and contractors leave healthy trees and grass for future growth. Many hunting grounds and natural parks use forestry mulching to keep their lands green and managed.
Forestry mulching services cost more in some areas but less in others. For example, it eliminates the expense of having to haul away the leftover debris. Contractors can also work faster since they don’t have to worry about categorizing and disposing of overgrown plants.
If your project doesn’t require an empty piece of land at the end of it, consider forestry mulching instead.
What To Do Before You Get Your Quote
Before discussing your plans with a contractor, establish a baseline of what must be done during clearing. You can add other services if you find that they fit within your budget.
Use the baseline to compare the cost between various quotes from different contractors. Lot clearing for construction estimates may vary, but the differences shouldn’t be dramatic. You can choose those with more reasonable prices for your budget.
ABDT MGMT LLC Is Your Go-To for Land Clearing in Shelby County
Add us to your list of contractors as you consider who should clear your land. For more questions or to receive a free quote, contact ABDT MGMT LLC today.
