Every farm owner in Central Florida knows the satisfaction of clearing a patch of land yourself. There’s something about firing up the tractor and taming an overgrown pasture that just feels right. But I’ve also seen the other side of it—the half-finished jobs, the damaged equipment, and the frustration when a project turns out to be bigger than expected.
If you’re staring at a few acres of palmettos and pine scrub near Sanford or Christmas, you might be wondering if you can handle it yourself or if it’s time to call in the big guns.
This guide breaks down exactly when to rent that skid steer and when to hand the keys to a professional.
Land clearing is the process of removing trees, stumps, brush, stones, and other obstacles from an area to prepare it for land improvement or construction. It sounds simple enough—knock stuff down and move it—but the reality in Florida is a bit more complex.
In our area, you aren't just dealing with grass. You're dealing with thick saw palmetto roots that tangle like wire, sandy soil that can sink heavy machinery, and regulations that change depending on which side of the county line you're on.
Common methods include:
Whether you're prepping a new pasture for cattle or clearing a site for a pole barn, the method matters. Professional land clearing isn't just about force; it's about using the right technique so the land is actually usable when the dust settles.
Yes, you can clear land yourself, provided you have the right equipment, plenty of time, and a high tolerance for mechanical repairs.
For small jobs—like clearing a quarter-acre for a garden or cleaning up fence lines—DIY is often the smart move. If you already own a tractor with a bush hog or a grapple bucket, you’re halfway there.
Ideal DIY Scenarios:
The Hidden Costs of DIY:
Rental equipment isn't cheap. Renting a compact track loader (like a Bobcat) in Orlando typically costs between $350 and $550 per day, plus delivery fees and fuel. If the project drags on for a week, you've spent nearly $3,000, and you’re doing all the labor yourself in the humid Florida heat.
You also need to consider safety. Operating heavy machinery on uneven ground or near trees is dangerous. I’ve seen seasoned farmers get into trouble when a tree falls the wrong way or a machine tips on a hidden stump.
Professional land clearing becomes necessary when the scale of the job exceeds the capacity of standard farm equipment or when the timeline is tight.
If you need to clear five acres of dense woods in Lake Nona or prepare a site for a foundation, a professional crew can do in three days what might take you three months.
Call a Pro When:
It feels counterintuitive, but hiring a pro can sometimes be cheaper than DIY.
Let’s look at the numbers. If you're renting equipment for $2,500 a week and spending your own time (which is worth money), plus fuel and potential repairs, a two-week DIY project costs you over $5,000.
A professional land clearing Orlando Florida crew might quote that same job for a similar price, but they bring:
Plus, professional services usually include hauling away debris or processing it on-site. If you handle it yourself, you still have to figure out what to do with the mountain of trash you just created.
Not all contractors are created equal. In Central Florida, we have plenty of "guys with trucks," but you need a licensed and insured business.
Check for Experience in Our Soil
Florida soil is sandy and soft. An operator who learned in the clay of Georgia might bog down their machine here. Ask if they have worked in areas like Winter Garden or Zellwood.
Verify Insurance
This is non-negotiable. If a tree falls on your fence or a rock flies through a neighbor's window, you need to know their liability insurance covers it.
Ask About Equipment
Make sure they own their fleet. Companies that rely on rentals are subject to availability delays. Drinkwater & Drinkwater owns a fleet built over decades, meaning we show up when we say we will.
Look at Reviews
A reputation takes years to build. Look for a company that has established relationships with local municipalities and a track record of safe, clean job sites.
At the end of the day, it comes down to what your time is worth. If you enjoy the work and have the equipment, tackle those fence rows yourself. But for the heavy lifting—clearing acres, removing big stumps, or prepping for construction—professional help is an investment in your land’s future.
If you're looking for land clearing Orlando Florida locals trust, we are here to help. We have perfected the methodology for a clean, smooth-running operation that focuses on planning and safety.
Need an estimate on your project? Give Drinkwater & Drinkwater a call at (407) 732-4530. We’ll come out, take a look at your property, and give you an honest assessment of what it will take to get the job done right.
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