Land Clearing in Melbourne

Land clearing in Melbourne ranges from $1,000 for a small residential block to $50,000+ for large commercial sites. Key factors include the number and size of trees, vegetation density, stump removal requirements, access, soil conditions, and disposal costs. Most residential blocks (under 1,000sqm) cost between $3,000 and $15,000.

Almost always, yes. Melbourne councils require permits for removing significant trees, and large-scale clearing typically needs planning approval. If the land is zoned for development, clearing may be covered under your planning permit. Properties in bushfire-prone areas have different rules. An arborist report may be required to support your application.

A comprehensive land clearing service typically includes tree removal and felling, understory vegetation removal, stump grinding or removal, mulching of green waste, site levelling, and debris disposal. Some operators also handle earthworks, soil stabilisation, and erosion control as part of the service.

A small residential block might take 1-3 days. Medium sites (1,000-5,000sqm) typically take 1-2 weeks. Large commercial or rural sites can take several weeks to months. Timeframes depend on vegetation density, number of trees, stump removal requirements, and weather conditions.

Yes, you can usually keep timber from felled trees. Quality hardwood can be milled for building projects, and most wood can be cut into firewood lengths. Discuss this with the clearing contractor beforehand, as keeping timber on-site may affect the quote (it takes time to process logs rather than chip and remove them).

Most clearing contractors chip smaller vegetation on-site and either remove the mulch or spread it on the property. Larger timber is typically taken to recycling or timber yards. Green waste disposal costs are usually included in the quote. Some contractors offer the option of leaving mulch on-site for landscaping use.