What's Involved in Brush Clearing

The scale of a brush clearing project depends entirely on what needs to be removed. Before you begin any clearing work, you should survey the area first to get a clear understanding of the scope of the job. Are you dealing with small shrubs and overgrown weeds, or are there large trees, stumps, and heavy vegetation that need to come out?

If there are boulders or other large obstacles on the property, you'll likely need specialized machinery to handle them. Equipment like bulldozers, excavators, and skid steers are commonly used for large-scale clearing projects that go beyond what hand tools can manage.

Depending on your location and the scope of the project, you may also need to obtain a permit before clearing begins. Permit fees can run up to $200 or more, and failing to get the proper permits can result in fines and delays.

Safety equipment is essential for any brush clearing work. At a minimum, you should have:

  • Long-sleeved shirt and pants
  • Heavy-duty gloves
  • Helmet
  • Eye protection
  • Ear protection

Cutting tools you'll need for brush clearing include:

  • Pruner for cutting branches
  • Weed whacker
  • Saw
  • Stump grinder
  • Mulcher

If the project is beyond your ability or comfort level, or if you don't have access to the heavy equipment needed, hiring a professional brush clearing company is the smart choice. Professionals have the experience, equipment, and insurance to handle the job safely and efficiently, saving you time and reducing the risk of injury or property damage.