Land clearing in Knoxville: local operators and what it costs

When clearing needs a permit

Knoxville's stormwater code requires a site development permit from the Department of Engineering to remove vegetation not exempted by the tree protection rules, to begin any land disturbance, and to clear a site by any means that disturbs the soil. Small lots under ten thousand square feet of disturbance can use the city's rough grading permit. Cutting brush at ground level and leaving the roots is very different, under that code, from grubbing the whole area.

Tree rules depend on the lot

The city's tree protection article does not apply to a parcel used for a single-family or two-family home. On other land without a building permit, the code limits destroying more than a quarter of the trees without the urban forester's approval. If the clearing is on vacant land or ahead of development, check that limit before any trees are cut.

Sinkholes and karst ground

Much of Knox County sits on limestone and dolomite with active karst, and soils like the Dewey series are described by the USDA as pitted in places with sinks and depressions. Knoxville's code requires site development on a property with a sinkhole to have the needed permits from the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation first. Clearing often reveals depressions that were hidden under brush, so mark them and keep debris and spoil out of them.

Season and Tennessee 811

Late fall and winter, after leaf drop, show the ground and the trees best, though freezing nights run from early November to around April. Grubbing roots and stumps is digging, so Tennessee 811 needs three working days of notice first, homeowners included.

What to describe in your post

Give the size of the area, what is growing there, which trees stay, whether roots and stumps come up or stay in the ground, and what happens to the debris. Mention slopes, sinks, fences and the access for a machine.