Clearing & Grubbing » Wynn Site Development

The First Step Toward Successful Site Development

When it comes to site development, clearing and grubbing is always the first stage. Clearing is necessary to remove above-ground vegetation, while grubbing removes the stumps, roots, and organic material below grade.

Wynn Site Development handles all the opening phase of full-site work, so you can always trust that the job is getting done right. We follow all North Carolina regulations to ensure that the process is done properly.

You can count on us to exceed expectations on every project we take on. Learn more about the clearing and grubbing services WSD provides and why you can trust us every step of the way.

The Difference Between Clearing and Grubbing

Clearing and grubbing are both necessary because before grading, any buried organic material can decay, leading to uneven settlement under roads, building pads, and foundations.

What is clearing?

Proper clearing is necessary to ensure that the soil is stable enough to support heavy foundations. If buried organic matter is left in the ground, it will eventually rot. This causes the soil to sink and structures to crack. Without proper clearing, construction teams cannot accurately measure the land or plan for proper drainage.

Surface Preparation

What is grubbing ?

Once everything is cleared from the surface, grubbing is necessary to remove roots, stumps, and other organic matter below the soil surface.

This is the vital second step that is needed before any development can begin.

Root & Stump Removal

Site Prep Essentials

It’s important to note that clearing and grubbing, along with forestry mulching, both aim to remove unwanted trees, brush, and roots to prepare land for a new purpose. The main difference is how it’s done.
Forestry mulching uses a specialized grinding attachment, such as a skid steer or dedicated tracked mulcher, to get the job done.

North Carolina Regulations

In North Carolina, if one or more acres of land is disturbed, it triggers a legal requirement to submit and receive an Erosion and Sedimentation Control Plan before any construction starts. This plan must be submitted at least 30 days before any land-disturbing activity begins.

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Step-by-Step Guide to the Clearing and Grubbing Process

There is a precise, step-by-step guide for clearing and grubbing in North Carolina. When you trust Wynn Site Development, you can count on us to follow this plan every step of the way.

01

Site Walk and Pre-Construction Planning

During this step, the site is surveyed to establish boundaries. Any trees that need to be saved are marked. Crews also check for any underground and overhead utilities. During this stage, zoning laws are also examined, and any necessary permits are taken out.

02

Clearing the site

Trees, shrubs, and brush are all cut to ground level. Any old fences, rocks, and debris are also removed.

03

Grubbing

Stumps and roots are taken out during this process. Any stump remnants are also ground down.

04

Debris Disposal

Logs are hauled away, and any large debris is disposed of.

05

Topsoil stripping & stockpiling

In this final stage, the land has been prepared and is ready for grading.

Equipment Used for Clearing and Grubbing

Clearing and grubbing use heavy tracked equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, and forestry mulchers.

A bulldozer

is used to push over trees, clear rocks, and move surface debris into piles

Excavators

have hydraulic arms and buckets to dig and uproot stumps and other heavy obstacles

Forestry mulchers

grind dense brush and small trees into on-site mulch

Stump grinders

are also used to ensure that all stumps are cut down as much as possible.

At Wynn Site Development, we have all the necessary equipment to complete the clearing and grubbing process efficiently and safely.

Why Hire Wynn Site Development for Clearing and Grubbing

When you hire Wynn Site Development for clearing and grubbing, you can count on us for

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Regulatory Compliance

We will navigate all local codes, zoning laws, and state environmental regulations.

Permit Management

Count on us to pull and manage all necessary permits for your project.

Liability Protection

We are licensed and insured to protect you while we work on your property.

Foundation Readiness

You want a professional to handle the job to ensure your foundation is ready for the next building phase.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does clearing and grubbing cost per acre in NC?

This will vary greatly depending on tree density, slope, and acreage. This can best be determined during a site visit.

Do you need a permit to clear land in North Carolina?

Yes, land-disturbing activity that uncovers more than one acre requires an approved Erosion and Sedimentation Control Plan under the NC Sedimentation Pollution Control Act.

What happens to the trees and stumps after clearing?

Trees and stumps can be burned where the county allows, or ground into mulch. It can also be hauled off-site.

How long does clearing and grubbing take?

It depends on acreage, tree density, and debris handling. Weather can also play a role.

Clearing & Grubbing in North Carolina