What is site preparation?
Site preparation is everything that happens before a foundation, structure, or septic system goes in. We clear vegetation, strip and stockpile topsoil, remove rock and obstructions, rough-grade the lot, and set up drainage so the ground is stable and water moves where it should. On Kawartha lots, that often means working around bedrock, slopes, and limited access.
What does site preparation include?
- Brush, tree, and stump clearing
- Topsoil stripping and stockpiling
- Rock and obstruction removal
- Cut-and-fill and rough grading to design grade
- Building-pad and driveway base preparation
- Erosion control and initial drainage
Why site prep matters in the Kawarthas
Much of Peterborough County sits on shallow soil over limestone and granite, and many cottage lots slope toward water. Skipping or rushing site prep is the fastest way to get a wet basement, a failed driveway, or a building inspector's hold. We grade and drain to the City of Peterborough Site Alteration By-law where it applies, so your project does not stall. See our permits guide.
How much does site preparation cost?
Site prep is priced by scope, not a flat rate, because it depends on lot size, vegetation, rock, and haul distance. Machine-and-operator time generally runs $50 to $150 per hour. See the full cost guide for the numbers, or get a free on-site quote.
Our process
- Free on-site assessment of access, soil, and grade
- Clear scope and quote, with permits flagged up front
- Clearing, stripping, and rough grading
- Drainage and erosion control set
- Lot left ready for the next trade
Related services: Land Clearing · Grading & Drainage · Foundation Excavation