Lot & land clearing
This is an independent planning guide, not a contractor or site assessment. Use it to prepare questions for a qualified professional. No booking, quote or request is sent from this website.
Define the proposed work
Mark what should remain, what would be removed, equipment access and the intended next use. Ask whether the scope includes stumps, roots, grading, hauling and follow-up maintenance.
Check erosion requirements before work
EGLE says permits are typically required for earth disturbance within 500 feet of a lake or stream regardless of size, or over one acre. Local rules can be stricter even outside those thresholds. Confirm requirements with the responsible county or municipal agency before clearing.
Do not assume wet ground is unregulated
If the project could affect a wetland or waterway, ask the relevant authority what approvals are needed before machines enter. This guide does not determine wetland boundaries or whether a project is exempt.
Coordinate utilities
Before excavation or grading, coordinate MISS DIG with the excavator at least three business days ahead and complete the required safe-digging steps.
Check public-tree and project rules
Grand Rapids Forestry requires a permit for a private company to remove or prune a qualifying city right-of-way tree. Do not prune a city tree yourself. For a tree on private land, confirm the property boundary and check with the city or township about the specific project, including development, wetland and soil-erosion rules. This guide cannot determine permit requirements for an address.
Use a written scope
Ask the contractor to describe the work, equipment access, protection of nearby structures, debris handling and any separate stump work. Verify credentials and insurance, and compare written estimates. This site cannot quote a job or confirm availability.
Sources: Michigan EGLE earth disturbance guidance · Michigan MPSC safe digging · Grand Rapids Forestry