Site prep turns a lot into a place a house can go: trees out where the house and drive will be, the pad built up and compacted, and the ground graded to shed water. In unincorporated Orange County, the building permit itself covers part of the tree removal.
What the building permit covers
Orange County says that with an approved building permit, trees can be removed for the building pad, the driveway, the on-site disposal (septic) system, and 15 feet around the principal building pad. Trees elsewhere on the lot fall under the county's tree permit rules.
Ground conditions
Angi's Orlando guide says sandy soil is common, the region's susceptibility to sinkholes and shifting ground calls for careful handling, and high water tables make soil testing essential. Ask whether your quote includes soil testing or assumes it's done.
Published prices
| Work | Angi, Orlando |
|---|---|
| Grading and leveling | $410 to $6,600 |
| Leveling | $5 to $15 per cubic yard |
| Operated machine | $105 to $255 per hour |
| Typical excavation job | $1,156 to $2,918 |
Stormwater
If clearing and grading disturb 1 acre or more, or the lot is part of a larger common plan, and runoff reaches surface waters or a storm sewer, Florida DEP's Construction Generic Permit applies: a stormwater pollution prevention plan, then a Notice of Intent and fee ($250 for 1 to under 5 acres) at least 2 calendar days before work.
Sources
- Orange County: Tree Removal Permit (unincorporated Orange County)
- Angi: How much does excavation cost in Orlando, FL? (updated June 17, 2026)
- Florida Department of Environmental Protection: Construction Activity (stormwater Construction Generic Permit)
Reviewed October 20, 2026. Rules, prices and contacts change, so check the source before relying on it.
Questions and answers
Can I remove trees for a new house without a tree permit in Orange County?
In unincorporated Orange County, an approved building permit allows removal for the building pad, driveway, septic system and 15 feet around the pad. Other trees follow the tree permit rules.
Get your site prep quoted
Use the form or give us a call, and an excavation contractor who covers northwest Orange County reaches out. The quote is free.
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