Understanding Subdivision Clearing
Subdivision land clearing is more than just removing trees. It is a strategic process that must align with your development timeline, coordinate with civil engineering, comply with local regulations, and deliver buildable lots to your construction team.
The DFW metroplex is one of the fastest-growing regions in America, with thousands of new subdivision lots being developed each year. Successful developers know that efficient land clearing is critical to project timelines and profitability.
Phases of Subdivision Clearing
Phase 1: Infrastructure ROW Clearing
First, clear corridors for roads, utilities, and drainage. This typically includes:
- • Main road ROW (typically 50-60 feet wide)
- • Utility easements (water, sewer, electric, gas)
- • Stormwater detention/retention areas
- • Entry features and common areas
Phase 2: Initial Lot Clearing
Clear the first phase of lots—typically those closest to infrastructure that will sell/build first:
- • Complete lot clearing for building footprint
- • Driveway approach clearing
- • Utility lateral easements
- • Strategic tree preservation (if specified)
Phase 3: Subsequent Phases
Clear additional lots as sales/contracts justify, typically in groups of 10-20:
- • Coordinate with sales velocity
- • Minimize time between clearing and construction
- • Reduce carrying costs and regrowth management
Our fleet includes equipment optimized for large-scale subdivision clearing projects
Subdivision Clearing Cost Breakdown
| Component | Light Vegetation | Heavy Vegetation |
|---|---|---|
| Individual lot (0.25-0.5 acre) | $2,000-$3,500 | $4,000-$6,000 |
| Bulk lots (10+ at once) | $1,500-$2,500/lot | $3,000-$4,500/lot |
| Road ROW (per linear foot) | $3-$5/ft | $5-$8/ft |
| Utility easements | $2-$4/ft | $4-$6/ft |
| Detention/retention areas (per acre) | $2,500-$4,000 | $4,000-$6,000 |
Volume Pricing for Developers
We offer significant volume discounts for subdivision projects. A 50-lot development typically receives 25-35% discount off individual lot pricing. Contact us with your site plan for a detailed project quote.
Sample Project: 40-Lot Subdivision
40-Lot Residential Subdivision - Cost Example
Medium vegetation, 0.35 acre average lot size
Phased vs. Complete Clearing
Complete Clearing
Clear entire subdivision at once.
✓ Lowest per-unit cost (maximum bulk discount)
✓ Single mobilization
✓ Consistent finished product
✗ Higher upfront cost
✗ May require regrowth maintenance
✗ Tied up capital before sales
Best for: Hot markets, smaller projects (<30 lots), developers with strong presales
Phased Clearing ✓
Clear in stages matching development pace.
✓ Lower upfront investment
✓ Better cash flow alignment
✓ Minimal regrowth between clear/build
✓ Flexibility if market shifts
⚠ Slightly higher per-lot cost
⚠ Multiple mobilizations
Best for: Larger projects, uncertain markets, capital-conscious developers
Tree Preservation Strategy
Strategic tree preservation can increase lot values by 5-15% and improve marketability. However, it must be carefully planned to avoid construction conflicts.
Tree Preservation Guidelines
Preserve
- • Specimen oaks >24" diameter
- • Mature pecans in good condition
- • Tree clusters in common areas
- • Trees along property boundaries
Clear
- • ALL trees in building footprints
- • Trees within 10 ft of foundations
- • Cedar/juniper (low value, high spread)
- • Dead, diseased, or hazard trees
Permit Requirements
Subdivision clearing in the DFW area typically requires various permits. Requirements vary significantly by jurisdiction:
| Permit Type | When Required | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Land Disturbance Permit | Sites >1 acre in most cities | $500-$2,000 |
| Tree Removal Permit | Cities with tree ordinances | $100-$1,000 |
| SWPPP | All sites >1 acre | $2,000-$5,000 |
| Grading Permit | If significant grading included | $500-$2,500 |
Tips for Developers
Get Clearing Bids Early
Include clearing costs in your land acquisition analysis. A heavily wooded site may cost $100K+ more to clear than open pasture.
Coordinate with Civil Engineering
Share your civil plans with your clearing contractor. We can clear exactly to final grade elevations, reducing subsequent earthwork.
Schedule During Dry Season
Clearing is most efficient October-March in Texas. Wet conditions slow progress and can cause soil compaction issues.
Build Relationships
Work with the same clearing contractor across projects. Established relationships mean better pricing, priority scheduling, and crews who know your standards.