How to Clear an Overgrown Property

Whether you've inherited a neglected property, bought raw land, or let your back acreage grow wild for a few years, clearing overgrown land is a bigger job than most people expect. Thick brush, fallen trees, vines, and undergrowth can turn even a few acres into a significant project. Here's how to approach it systematically.

Common Scenarios

Assess the Property First

Before any clearing begins, walk the property (or hire someone to do it) and document:

• Types of vegetation (brush, small trees, mature timber, vines)
• Terrain (flat, sloped, wet areas, rocky ground)
• Any structures, fences, or utilities that need to be protected
• Trees you want to keep — mark them clearly before any equipment arrives
• Property boundaries — know exactly where your land ends
• Drainage patterns — clearing changes water flow, so note existing low spots and drainage paths

If the property is heavily overgrown, you may not be able to see everything on foot. Aerial photos (even from a smartphone on a nearby road) can help map the scope.

Clearing Methods

Forestry Mulching

A forestry mulcher is a machine with a rotating drum that grinds brush, trees (up to 6-8 inches in diameter), and undergrowth into mulch in a single pass. The mulch stays on the ground, suppressing regrowth and preventing erosion. This is the most popular method for residential and small commercial land clearing because it's fast, clean, and doesn't require hauling debris.

Traditional Clearing (Bulldozer)

A bulldozer pushes trees and brush into piles for burning or hauling. This is faster for large-scale clearing (10+ acres of heavy timber) but leaves the land disturbed — bare dirt, pushed-up root balls, and debris piles. It usually requires follow-up grading and erosion control.

Selective Hand Clearing

For small areas or sensitive sites, hand crews use chainsaws, brush cutters, and chippers. This is the most expensive per acre but gives you the most control over what stays and what goes. Ideal for clearing around existing structures or valuable trees.

Typical Costs

• Light brush (grass, small shrubs): $1,000-$2,500 per acre
• Medium brush (small trees, dense undergrowth): $2,500-$4,500 per acre
• Heavy clearing (mature trees, dense brush): $4,500-$8,000+ per acre

Volume discounts typically apply — clearing 10 acres costs less per acre than clearing 1 acre. Factors like access, terrain, debris disposal, and stumps affect the final price.

Timeline

For reference, a single forestry mulcher can typically clear:

• Light brush: 1-3 acres per day
• Medium brush: 0.5-1.5 acres per day
• Heavy clearing: 0.25-0.75 acres per day

Add time for any tree removal, stump grinding, grading, or debris hauling that's part of the project.

After Clearing

• Erosion control: Seeding with grass or ground cover prevents washout, especially on slopes
• Grading: If you plan to build, grade the cleared area for proper drainage
• Regrowth management: Plan to mow or treat regrowth within 60-90 days of initial clearing
• Soil testing: If you plan to plant or landscape, test the soil to know what amendments are needed

Get Quotes from Local Pros

Land clearing quotes vary significantly based on who you hire and what equipment they use. Getting 2-3 quotes from experienced contractors is the best way to understand your costs. Browse Clear My Land Directory to find rated contractors in Texas, Florida, and Georgia.

Related guides: Dealing with Invasive Species · Forestry Mulching vs Bulldozing · Land Clearing & Forestry Mulching Cost Guide