Grading, Erosion Control & Site Clearing

Clearing and shaping the land

Site clearing removes brush, stumps, debris and unwanted vegetation, while rough grading sets the contours that carry water in the right direction. A contractor plans the sequence so equipment can reach the area and soil is stockpiled where needed. They watch for utilities, trees you want to keep and drainage paths that already exist. The result should be a stable, graded surface that is ready for a driveway, a pad or landscaping. Mark property lines, trees to keep and any buried lines you know about before the visit, so the bid reflects the real constraints on site.

Controlling erosion before the rain arrives

Bare soil and a Bay Area downpour are a bad combination, since runoff carries sediment into neighbors’ yards, streets and storm drains. Erosion control measures include straw wattles, silt fences, erosion control blankets, hydroseeding and stabilized entrances. Many cities require them on construction sites. Ask the contractor which measures they recommend and who maintains them until plants establish. Ask who is responsible for maintaining the controls through the rainy season, because wattles and fences need checking after each major storm.

Permits, drainage and neighbors

Grading beyond a certain amount of soil or in a hillside area often requires a grading permit and sometimes an engineer’s plan. Drainage should never be redirected onto a neighboring property in a harmful way. A licensed contractor will check local rules, call the utility locating service and communicate with neighbors about equipment and hauling. Keep copies of permits and inspection sign-offs with your property records. Keep the permit, the plan and any inspection notes in one folder, since the city or a future buyer may ask to see them.

Outdoor Lighting

Path lights, string lights, and full low-voltage landscape lighting systems, wired and buried cl…

Lawn Mowing & Edging

Mowed, edged, blown, and cleaned up — a crisp lawn on the schedule that suits you.

Bush & Hedge Trimming

Hedges, shrubs, and ornamentals shaped and tidied, with all the clippings hauled away.

Yard Cleanup & Weeding

Leaves, weeds, branches, and debris cleared and hauled to bring your yard back to life.

Irrigation & Sprinkler Installation, Repair

A new in-ground irrigation system installed, code-required backflow preventer included, or broke…

Artificial Turf Installation

Synthetic turf installed over a prepped base — a permanent, low-maintenance lawn.

Tree Trimming

Shaping and deadwood removal for trees up to a moderate size and height.

Mulching & Bed Refresh

Garden beds weeded, edged, and refreshed with new mulch.

Fertilization & Weed Control

A seasonal lawn treatment program — fertilizer and targeted weed control.