Land Clearing & Grading FAQ
Charlotte Land Works fields a lot of questions about land clearing, grading, stump work, driveways and drainage. Here are the most common.
What areas does Charlotte Land Works serve?
We connect customers with independent providers across the Charlotte metro, including Charlotte, Ballantyne, Matthews, Mint Hill, Pineville, Huntersville, Cornelius, Concord, Mooresville, Gastonia, Monroe, Indian Trail, Waxhaw and Weddington in North Carolina, and Fort Mill, Rock Hill and Indian Land in South Carolina.
Is Charlotte Land Works a contractor?
No. Charlotte Land Works is a local referral and service network. When you call or submit a quote request, we connect you with an independent local provider who performs and prices the work directly with you.
Do you work on commercial sites?
Yes. Providers in our network handle builder lots, small commercial pads, demolition, excavation and erosion control in addition to residential work.
Do I need a permit to clear or grade my land?
It depends on your town or county and how much ground you disturb. In North Carolina, disturbing one acre or more generally requires an erosion and sediment control plan, and many towns have tree ordinances. South Carolina sites follow state stormwater rules. Always confirm with your local jurisdiction.
What's the difference between forestry mulching and land clearing?
Forestry mulching grinds trees and brush in place, leaving a mulch layer and stumps near grade with minimal soil disturbance. Conventional land clearing removes trees, stumps and roots entirely — needed for foundations and driveways.
Should I grind a stump or have it removed?
Grinding is fine under lawns and beds. Where a slab, footing, driveway or septic field will go, full stump removal with compacted backfill prevents future settling.
How long does a typical land clearing job take?
A small residential lot may take one to three days; multi-acre tracts can take a week or more. Weather, wet clay, debris handling and permit timing all affect the schedule.
Can crews work around trees I want to keep?
Yes. Selective clearing is common. Mark the trees you want to keep and crews will work around them and protect root zones.
What gravel is best for a driveway in the Charlotte area?
Most Carolina driveways use a compacted base of ABC stone (crusher run), often topped with #57 stone. Proper excavation, a crown and drainage matter more than the top stone choice.
Why does my yard hold water after it rains?
Charlotte-area red clay drains slowly, and many builder-graded lots have thin topsoil and poor slope. Regrading, swales and French drains are the usual fixes.
Do I need to call 811 before work starts?
Yes. Call NC 811 or SC 811 (or file online) a few business days before any digging, grinding or grading so underground utilities can be marked.
Is the quote free?
Requesting a quote through Charlotte Land Works is free with no obligation. Pricing comes directly from the independent provider after they review your project.
Get a Free Quote
Tell us about your project. Free, no obligation. Prefer to talk? Call (704) 555-0100