Clearing land is a big and daunting task; however, if you follow certain guides, it can be manageable. Whether you want to clear your land to build a new home, create more lawn space, add aesthetic value, make extra space in your backyard for a new shed, a new pool, or a new driveway, or to simply cut down trees to reduce the spread of tree diseases, land clearing is a must yet labour-intensive process.
While large, thick, or tall trees might need council approval and skilled expertise to take down, many residential backyards and block clearing can be a DIY project. Typically, you would begin the project by sizing up the present situation to assess how much you can manage yourself and which part may need outside help.
There are some pros and cons of doing a DIY project and hiring experienced operators.
Pros of DIY Land Clearing:
- More affordable
- Given the right tools (loppers, axes, chainsaws), can be accessible to anyone
- Gives owners more freedom and control of how much should be cleared and what certain features will be retained
Cons of DIY Land Clearing:
- Can be highly dangerous, especially on rocky or difficult terrain
- More energy-intensive, which could result in accidents and injuries
- Requires permits from the local council or permission for land clearing, which can be difficult to acquire in some locations
- Could be time-consuming, will only work when the owner is not working with a tight deadline
A block we cleared to create better views in Lakehaven, January 2020.
Basic Steps to Do a DIY Land Clearing Project
Once you have determined the size of your project, you need to check and see if you need a permit, set a budget, and get an estimate from a land clearing expert, like us, should you need one.
- Demolish any existing structures that are in the way.
- Remove any standing debris, such as fallen tree branches, trash, or rocks.
- Make some markings and protect vegetation or trees that cannot be removed or temporarily moved.
- Chop down any trees you can handle. You can rent some professional equipment for those large plots with larger trees.
- Remove any remaining tree stump.
- Clear out any vegetation.
- Fill in the holes with loose dirt and grade the land.
- Plough the soil if you want to landscape or farm the area.
Generally speaking, a DIY land clearing project is cost-effective, but if disability, age, or any other factors become a hindrance, it is best to let the professionals handle the land clearing.
Pros of Hiring Experts to Clear Land:
- More experienced and knowledgeable when it comes to local regulations, rules, and best practices for the job
- Can carry out a land clearing in unfavourable or rocky terrain
- Should be able to finish the job successfully on a given deadline
- Can be hired for quick land clearing needs
- Have access to more advanced and powerful tools
Cons of Hiring Experts to Clear Land:
- More expensive due to labour cost and expertise, if you already have all the tools available
- Might accidentally clear some features that owners intend to keep
Conclusion
Clearing land is an important process for owners to maximise their property. Remember, land clearing must be done with the environment and human safety in mind. Given the challenges the task required, it’s best to hire professional contractors for block clearing services. Contact King Kong Tree Services, located in Gosford NSW for more information.