Clearing a lot can feel like a big job — whether you’re preparing a new construction site, reclaiming overgrown land, or just wanting a cleaner, more usable property. The good news? With the right plan and a trusted local company, you can make the process smooth, safe, and efficient.
At Wilcox Tree Service, we’ve spent years helping homeowners and businesses around Keene, NH, safely clear land while protecting what matters most — your property, your time, and your peace of mind.
If you’re thinking about logging or lot clearing, here are the top 7 tips every Keene resident should know before starting.
1. Know Your Property Boundaries Before You Start
It might sound obvious, but you’d be surprised how often boundaries create confusion once clearing begins.
Before scheduling any work, make sure your property lines are clearly marked. This step helps avoid clearing trees or brush that belong to a neighbor, which could lead to unwanted disputes or even fines.
Pro tip: Contact your local town office or check your property deed for official boundary maps. If you’re unsure, a quick survey from a licensed professional can save a lot of headaches later.
When you work with Wilcox Tree Service, our team reviews boundaries with you on-site to confirm exactly what areas need clearing. That way, there’s no guesswork when the equipment arrives.
2. Get the Right Permits (and Know When You Need Them)
Get the Right Permits (and Know When You Need Them) Keene, like most New Hampshire towns, may require permits for extensive tree removal or land clearing, especially near wetlands, slopes, or public rights-of-way. If you’re clearing for construction or driveway expansion, always check with the City of Keene Code Enforcement or Planning Department before any major work begins. Permits aren’t just a formality — they protect you legally and ensure your project meets local environmental standards.
Wilcox Tip: We help clients identify whether permits are needed for a project and can coordinate the right paperwork to keep things compliant and stress-free.
3. Choose a Professional Team with the Right Equipment
Lot clearing is not just “cutting trees down.” It involves strategic removal, debris handling, stump grinding, and thorough cleanup. Attempting it without the right machinery can damage the land or leave behind serious safety hazards.
A professional team like Wilcox Tree Service brings:
- Heavy-duty chainsaws, skidders, feller bunchers, slashers, and bucket trucks for efficient and large-scale clearing
- Excavators and skid steers for stump and brush removal
- Trained operators who know how to work safely around structures, power lines, and uneven terrain
This kind of expertise saves you time, protects your property, and ensures a clean, hazard-free finish. With Wilcox’s strong emphasis on safety and precision, every job is completed to the highest standards — no shortcuts, no mess left behind.
4. Decide What to Keep and What to Remove
Before clearing starts, take a walk through your property and decide which trees, shrubs, or natural features you want to keep. Some trees add character, shade, or privacy — while others might pose hazards or block future construction.
We always encourage clients to keep healthy, well-placed trees when possible. A mix of open space and greenery not only looks beautiful but can also enhance property value.
If you’re unsure, our team will help you identify:
- Trees that are structurally sound and worth preserving
- Overgrown or diseased trees that may cause problems later
- Areas where selective clearing will create better visual balance
Think of it as customizing your landscape for long-term enjoyment, not just a one-time cleanup.
5. Plan for Debris Removal and Disposal
Once the cutting and clearing are done, there’s one big question left — what happens to all that debris?
From branches and brush to full tree trunks, clearing a lot generates a surprising amount of waste. Some companies leave the cleanup to the property owner — but that’s not the Wilcox way.
We handle:
- Chipping and hauling all wood debris
- Safe disposal or recycling of logs and woodchips
Our goal is to leave your space tidy and ready for its next stage — whether that’s construction, landscaping, or simply a clean, open yard.
6. Consider the Season and Ground Conditions
Timing matters more than most people realize.
In Keene, the late fall and winter months are often the most efficient times for logging and lot clearing because the ground is firmer. This helps prevent unnecessary damage to soil and surrounding vegetation.
On the other hand, early spring can be tricky — heavy rains and soft soil make it harder for machinery to operate without leaving ruts or compaction marks.
At Wilcox Tree Service, we schedule jobs strategically to protect your property’s condition and minimize disturbance. If timing is flexible, we’ll recommend the best season for your specific site.
7. Think Long-Term: Future Use & Maintenance
Clearing land is just the first step. What comes next matters just as much.
Before starting, ask yourself:
- What’s the end goal — a new home site, open pasture, garden, or simply a cleaner yard?
- Will you need ongoing maintenance like brush control or selective trimming?
- Do you want certain trees replanted or natural barriers preserved?
A thoughtful plan will make your cleared space more functional and easier to maintain for years to come.
Wilcox Tree Service often helps property owners design long-term maintenance schedules, especially for larger lots or wooded areas. This ensures regrowth stays under control and the land remains safe and usable year-round.
Bonus Tip
When it comes to logging and lot clearing, local experience matters.
A team familiar with Keene’s terrain, weather, and local tree species can handle challenges more effectively and safely than a company from out of town.
Wilcox Tree Service has been part of the Monadnock Region community for years. We know the land, we know the soil, and we understand the local regulations that keep your project on track.
When you work with a local team, you’re not just hiring a contractor — you’re partnering with professionals who genuinely care about your property’s outcome.
Why Keene Homeowners Trust Wilcox Tree Service
We believe that every project, no matter the size, deserves the same level of care and precision.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Safety First: Our equipment and team are trained to handle even complex jobs around homes, power lines, or uneven ground.
- Comprehensive Cleanup: We leave your property spotless — no stray limbs or leftover debris.
- Fully Insured & Professional: You’re covered from start to finish, giving you peace of mind.
- Local Knowledge: We understand Keene’s environment and adapt our approach for minimal disruption.
Our commitment is simple: to make lot clearing easy, efficient, and worry-free for every client.
Ready to Reclaim Your Property? Let’s Talk!
If you’re planning a land-clearing or logging project in or around Keene, NH, now’s the perfect time to get started.
Our experienced crew is ready to help with:
- Tree cutting and removal
- Brush and debris cleanup
- Stump grinding and surface leveling
- Safe, efficient lot clearing for residential or commercial sites
Call Wilcox Tree Service today
Final Thought
Logging and lot clearing don’t have to be overwhelming. With a bit of planning, the right timing, and a dependable local team, you can transform any space efficiently and safely.
At Wilcox Tree Service, we’re proud to help Keene residents take that first step — one tree, one project, one clean lot at a time.