Whether you are new to the area or have roots that go back decades, at some point, you will need to practice ethical land-clearing on your property. Here is what you need to know about preparing for clearing land in western North Carolina.
Determine Whether It Is Time to Clear Land
There are several reasons you might be ready to clear some land, including:
- It is time to begin building a house, houses, or new buildings.
- It is time to expand some of your crops or livestock areas.
- It is time to guard against wildfire caused by excessive growth.
- It is time to gain a better view of your surroundings.
- It is time to make better use of your resources by converting your overgrowth into forestry mulching and under brushing.
If you have determined it is time to clear some of your land, here are the next steps.
Research Zoning Laws and HOA Regulations to Land-Clearing
Before you get started with your land-clearing project, you need to know what you are legally allowed to do. You will need to find out vital information from your county, municipality, and HOA (if you have one):
- Are you allowed to clear land?
- Do you need any special permitting to clear land?
- Are you allowed to build on the land once it’s cleared?
- Even if you can build something, are you allowed to do the projects you intend to do?
- What can you do with the cleared materials?
In other words, do not just start clearing land for a project you may not be legally allowed to complete.
Familiarize Yourself With the Most Recent Survey Data
Even in the most remote parts of western North Carolina, you are going to have neighbors. If you start clearing land, you need to make sure it is yours. Disputes about exactly where your property ends and your neighbor’s land begins are possible. Having the latest survey data in hand will help you defend your project and keep you from accidentally overstepping your boundaries.
Check for Utility Hook-Ups
If your intention is to build something like a house or shop on the cleared land, you will need to make sure you can access utilities such as electric, gas, and water. Ensure you either have available hook-ups, or the utility companies can install what you need before committing to clearing your land.
Determine Where You Will Place a Well and Septic System
If you are installing a well and/or septic tank, you will want to determine the best location(s) before you start. It will likely affect the land-clearing project.
Make Sure You Have the Right Equipment or Professional Team
If you are planning to perform your land-clearing project on your own, you need to make sure you have the right equipment to do the job. You do not want to try to be a hero and clear it all with a hatchet. Of course, it is not just about getting the job done quickly; you want to make sure it is done thoroughly and ethically. If done improperly, clearing your land could negatively impact erosion control, local waterways, and your neighbors’ property.
It is better to bring in experienced professionals who are committed to ethical and efficiently clearing your land. This will prevent you from wasting time so that you can enjoy your property and life in western North Carolina. If you are ready to take on an ethical land-clearing project in the Hendersonville, Greenville, or Spartanburg areas, the team at Garrett's Landscape and Grading is here to help. Contact us today for more information on how you can get started on your land-clearing project.