Free planning tool
Lot Clearing Cost Calculator
Estimate land clearing cost in under 60 seconds. Covers everything from a quarter-acre residential clear to multi-acre commercial parcels. Pricing math anchored to Middle Tennessee market rates including TN-specific factors like winter clearing discounts and burn permit options.
Planning estimate based on the inputs below. Final price is locked in after a free on-site visit with a written quote you can approve before work starts.
Local market affects pricing
Acreage drives the biggest cost variable
More trees per acre = more cuts
Slope and soil affect equipment
Chip-on-site is cheapest
Grinding +20%, extraction +60%
Why this estimate
- 1/2 to 1 acre lot - $3,000-$8,000 base range
- Stump grinding included - +20%
Want an exact price?
The calculator gives a planning range. For a flat, written quote you can hold us to, we come out, walk the property, and give you the exact number before work starts - free.
This calculator is a planning estimate based on Middle Tennessee market data. Real-world pricing depends on factors that require an on-site assessment. Final price is set in your written quote, not by this tool.
Lot clearing pricing FAQ
How much does lot clearing cost per acre in Tennessee?
Heavily-wooded acres run $5,000-$15,000+ for full clearing. Moderately-wooded acres are $3,000-$8,000. Sparse lots with 5-10 trees per acre can be done for $1,500-$4,000. Pricing scales with tree density, terrain difficulty, and how the debris is handled - chipping on-site is cheapest, hauling everything away adds 25%, controlled burn (with TN burn permit) drops it 10%.
Do I need a permit to clear my lot in Tennessee?
It depends on the city and the activity. Most TN counties don't require permits for tree removal on private property. However, controlled burns require a TN Division of Forestry burn permit (free, online application). Some Middle TN cities and HOAs (Brentwood, Franklin's HOAs) restrict mature tree removal even on private property. Check your local ordinance before scheduling.
What's included in lot clearing?
Standard lot clearing covers: cutting down all trees and brush, removing limbs/branches, chipping or hauling away wood, and cutting stumps at ground level. Stump grinding (4-6 inches below grade) typically adds 20%. Full root extraction (for new construction) adds 60% and requires an excavator.
Can you clear a lot in winter?
Yes - winter is often the BEST time to clear in Middle Tennessee. Frozen ground supports heavy equipment better than spring mud, dormant trees are easier to handle, and crew availability is higher in slower season. Wet-ground premium (+40%) is avoided in winter compared to spring/early summer.
Ready for a quote?
Pick your service or your city. Free on-site quote written after a property walk.
Or browse by city ->Related: lot clearing service page or our tree removal calculator.