If you’ve just purchased raw wooded land in Florida, you’re probably eager to clear it and start building your dream home, farm, or homestead. However, clearing the land too early can create serious (and expensive) problems. At Davis Land Company, we’ve helped hundreds of Florida landowners successfully clear and develop their property. Here’s everything you need to know before you start clearing.
1. Research Zoning and Land Use Regulations
Florida counties are strict about what you can build and where.
- Confirm your property’s current zoning (Residential, Agricultural, etc.)
- Check the Future Land Use Map in your county’s comprehensive plan
- Verify minimum lot size requirements for building
Action Step: Contact your county’s Planning & Zoning Department before any clearing begins.
2. Understand Setback Requirements
Setbacks dictate how far your home, driveway, septic system, and outbuildings must be from:
- Property lines
- Roads and easements
- Wetlands and water bodies
- Conservation areas
Clearing too close to these boundaries can force you to move structures later — or require costly variances.
3. Flood Zones and Elevation Requirements
Much of Florida is in a flood zone. This is one of the most important (and overlooked) factors:
- Check your property on the FEMA Flood Map
- Determine your Base Flood Elevation (BFE)
- Many areas require your finished floor to be elevated 1–3 feet (or more) above the BFE
- Elevated homes often need special foundation work and can dramatically affect your site plan
Tip: Clearing and grading land in a flood zone without proper planning can actually make flooding worse on your property and neighboring lots.
4. Environmental Regulations & Protected Areas
Florida has strong protections for:
- Wetlands — You may need permits from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) or Water Management District
- Protected trees and vegetation (some counties have rules about specimen trees)
- Endangered species habitats (scrub-jay, gopher tortoise, etc.)
Failing to identify wetlands before clearing can result in heavy fines and stop-work orders.
5. Required Permits You’ll Likely Need
Common permits include:
- Building Permit
- Site Development Permit
- Tree Removal / Land Clearing Permit (in some counties)
- Septic System (OSTDS) Permit
- Driveway / Curb Cut Permit
- Environmental Resource Permit (ERP) from the Water Management District
- NPDES Stormwater Permit for larger projects
6. Survey and Site Planning
Hire a licensed Florida surveyor early to:
- Mark exact property boundaries
- Locate any easements
- Identify wetlands and flood zones accurately
- Create a proper site plan
7. Work with Professionals in the Right Order
Recommended Sequence:
- Purchase the land
- Get a professional survey
- Hire an engineer or architect for site planning
- Secure all necessary permits
- Hire a professional land clearing company (like Davis Land Company)
- Begin construction
Why Professional Land Clearing Matters
Attempting to clear the land yourself or hiring an unqualified crew can damage protected areas, create erosion problems, or violate regulations. We use forestry mulching and selective clearing methods that preserve mature trees, minimize soil disturbance, and stay compliant with environmental rules.
Ready to Transform Your Raw Land?
Davis Land Company has over 30 years of experience helping Florida property owners clear land responsibly and efficiently. We work closely with surveyors, engineers, and local officials to make the process smooth.
Contact us today for a free on-site quote and let us help you turn your raw Florida land into the property you’ve always wanted.