Question 1

Do you haul away all the debris?

Accepted Answer

Yes, debris hauling is included in our standard lot clearing service. We chip brush and small limbs into mulch (which you can keep or we remove), haul logs to mill or disposal sites, and rake the site clean. If burn piles are preferred and permitted by your county, we can stack debris for controlled burning instead.

Question 2

Can you save specific trees I want to keep?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. During the site walk we flag all trees marked for retention and establish protection zones around their root systems. Our crew works carefully to avoid damaging bark, compacting soil near trunks, or severing roots. We also limb low branches for clearance while preserving the tree's health and structure.

Question 3

How long does lot clearing take?

Accepted Answer

A typical residential lot (half-acre with moderate tree density) takes 2-5 days depending on tree size, access, and whether we're grinding stumps or just cutting flush. Larger lots, dense timber, or difficult terrain extend the timeline. We provide a detailed schedule during the estimate so you can coordinate with your builder or permitting deadlines.

Question 4

What about utilities and septic systems?

Accepted Answer

We require utility locates before clearing begins—call 811 at least two business days ahead. Septic tanks, drain fields, and wells are flagged and protected with barriers. If your lot plan includes new utilities or septic, we coordinate clearing zones with your excavation or septic contractor to avoid double-handling or conflicts.

Question 5

Do I need a permit to clear my lot?

Accepted Answer

Permit requirements vary by county and lot size. In Spokane County, residential lots under 5 acres typically don't require forest practice permits unless you're within critical areas or shoreline buffers. Pend Oreille and Bonner counties have similar thresholds. We help identify permit needs during the site walk and can provide documentation for your building permit application.

Question 6

Can you clear in winter or wet conditions?

Accepted Answer

Yes, with the right equipment. Tracked machines distribute weight to prevent rutting in wet or soft soils. Frozen ground in winter actually makes access easier on steep or muddy sites. We avoid clearing during active nesting season (April-July) if raptor or owl nests are present, per wildlife regulations.

Feature	DIY / Others	Tacoma Creek Build Co.
Licensed & Insured	❌	✅
GPS Machine Control	❌	✅
Compaction Testing	❌	✅
Permit Coordination	Limited	✅ Full Service
Mountain Terrain Experience	❌	✅ 10+ Years
One-Call Warranty Service	❌	✅

Lot Clearing

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