Lot grading in Clermont

Clermont's rolling hills are unusual for peninsular Florida, and they come from the Lake Wales Ridge. Grading a ridge lot means cutting and filling sand to make a level pad, then shaping slopes so rain leaves without taking the yard with it.

The ground

The Lake Wales Ridge is made of relic sand dunes, the remains of ancient sand islands, about 100 miles long. Its soils are very deep, porous sands. Parts of the ridge were planted in citrus in the early 20th century, and some of that land has since been redeveloped for housing, especially in the north.

Prices

Angi's Orlando guide adds that tropical downpours soak the ground and make dirt heavier to haul, and that daily summer thunderstorms and lightning can shut equipment down.

Stormwater permit

Florida DEP's Construction Generic Permit covers construction disturbing 1 acre or more (or part of a larger common plan) that drains to surface waters or a storm sewer. A stormwater pollution prevention plan comes first; the Notice of Intent and fee ($250 for 1 to under 5 acres, $400 for 5 or more) go in at least 2 calendar days before work.