What is a land clearing project and what is involved? What level of equipment will be necessary to get the job done properly? And if you hire professionals to help with a land clearance project, how much is it likely to set you back? In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know. 

What is the meaning of land clearing?

Land clearing, as the name suggests, is the process of removing trees, stumps, dirt, debris, and other vegetation from wooded areas or plots of land. The purpose of a land clearing can vary depending on what the land is going to be used for. 

For example: a local council may require that a wooded area be cleared to make away for the expansion of utilities, such as a gas or water pipeline. Or perhaps, it could be that a block of land needs clearing for a commercial or residential development project. 

In any case, the land will have to be cleared of all debris and vegetation, levelled accordingly, and done so as safely and efficiently as possible. 

What equipment is used for clearing land?

So, what equipment is typically used for clearing land? The most important and commonly used piece of land-clearing equipment is an excavator. In truth, these are a must-have as they are versatile, stable, mobile, and highly effective at shifting large amounts of earth in a short space of time. 

For example, if a plot of land is uneven with plenty of debris and dense vegetation, clearing everything and levelling it out for future construction by hand would take months! Imagine having to dig through all of that mess with a shovel and a pair of gloves? As such, an excavator enables you to clear a plot with greater speed and efficiency. Plus, it’s fun! 

Other important pieces of equipment that may be required for a land clearing project include: 

• Skid steer loaders

• Compact truck loaders

• Wheel loaders

• Backhoe loaders

• Bulldozers

• Site prep tractors 

• Forest machines

• Brush clippers

• Tree stump grinding equipment 

• Grapples

• Forestry mulches

• Brush hogs

• Flail mowers

• Strimmers

• Etc. 

You’re also going to need: 

• A large skip (or several) for storing and removing trash and debris. 

• All of the necessary PPE (personal protective equipment) for those working on site, e.g., safety goggles, steel-toe boots, heavy-duty gloves, etc. 

How much does it cost in Australia?

The cost for land clearance in Australia is typically calculated per acre and can be as low as $2,000 AUD ($500 for a quarter-acre), and can go as high as up to $7,000 and beyond. 

The average price range for land clearing rates in Australia falls somewhere between $1,150 and $3,790. 

The total cost for a land clearance project largely depends on the following factors: 

• How big is the plot of land? 

• How easy is it to access the plot? (certain plots might be difficult to access with the necessary earth-moving equipment, such as a mobile excavator). The more complex the job the greater the cost. 

• The extent of the vegetation and debris that needs clearing (a densely overgrown plot of land will be far more labour-intensive than a relatively light plot of land). 

• What equipment will be required to get the job done. 

• Any time constraints (land clearance experts will charge more for a faster turnaround). 

• Etc. 

How much does it cost in Sydney?

So, how much does land clearance cost in Sydney? The average falls somewhere between $1,150 and $3,790. Again, it all depends on the above factors as well. In order to get the most accurate quotation possible, you’re better off contacting your local land-clearance experts and having them come out for a site inspection. That way, they can calculate an accurate estimation on your behalf. 

How much does it cost in Melbourne?

And what about the land clearance cost in Melbourne? Again, the average falls somewhere between $1,150 and $3,790 – depending on the above factors. If you want the most accurate quotation possible, you’ll be better off contacting a local land-clearance company and having them visit for a site inspection. That way, they can calculate an accurate estimation on your behalf. 

How much does it cost in Perth?

As for land clearance services in Perth, you’re looking at a similar average: $1,000 to $3,500. Speak with your local land clearance experts and see if you can get an accurate quotation for your specific project. 

If you are having a densely vegetated area cleared, then you should contact certified arborists who are equipped to deal with that level of work. It’s also important to ensure that you are not going to be clearing any protected tree species by mistake – which can incur heavy financial penalties. Better safe than sorry! 

How much does it cost in Brisbane?

Land clearance costs in Brisbane can be anywhere from $1,000 to $3,500 and beyond. It’s difficult to offer an accurate estimation when there are so many influencing factors involved. Think carefully about what you need, how soon you need the plot cleared, and what level of accessibility there is, and then your local land clearance experts will be able to offer you a more accurate quotation to play with. 

Conclusion 

To recap: 

• A land clearance refers to the removal of any trees, shrubs, debris, and other vegetation from a plot of land (typically to clear the way for a construction project). 
• The most commonly used piece of equipment necessary for an effective land clearance is an excavator. 
• The average price range for land clearing rates in Australia falls somewhere between $1,150 and $3,790. 

We hope that this article has been helpful and wish you the best of luck with your land clearance project. It might seem like an overwhelming prospect right now, but with some land clearance experts at your disposal, you’ll be able to have your plot cleared and ready for development in no time! 

Amy Pearson