Vacant Lot Clearing in Cape Coral, FL

Walk the lot for burrows first

Burrowing owls nest on open vacant lots in Cape Coral. FWC lists the Florida burrowing owl as a State-designated Threatened species (FWC). The City's guidance for contractors says burrow entrances are about 3 to 8 inches across, and some are marked with white PVC pipes or T-perches while others aren't marked at all. A burrow can't be destroyed without an FWC permit, even if you don't see any owls (City of Cape Coral burrowing owl procedures).

Nesting season and buffers

• Nesting season: February 15 to July 10.
• Outside nesting season: keep at least a 10-foot buffer around a burrow during construction.
• During nesting season: keep at least a 33-foot buffer.
• Can't keep the buffer? A state permit from FWC is required.

The City's building-permit affidavit asks you to report burrows on the lot and in the street right-of-way, plus any you can see on neighboring vacant lots.

Gopher tortoises

Gopher tortoises are a state-threatened species. FWC says they must be relocated before any land clearing or development, and owners need an FWC permit before moving them (FWC gopher tortoise rules; FWC permits). FWC describes a gopher tortoise burrow as a tunnel whose opening closely matches the shape of a tortoise, and burrows may not be damaged without a permit.

Talk to the City before the equipment shows up

For a specific parcel, call the City's Permitting Help Desk at 239-574-0546 or email [email protected]. Permit applications go through the City's EnerGov portal (Cape Coral Permitting Services). If you're building, your builder's permit package may already cover the clearing scope.

Canal lots

Cape Coral has more than 400 miles of canals (City of Cape Coral). On a waterfront lot, tell the company about the seawall and any mangroves. Mangroves fall under state rules; see our mangrove guide.

Typical scope

• Mowing or mulching brush
• Removing selected trees and keeping others
• Grinding stumps (call 811 first)
• Hauling debris

Stump grinding and root raking are digging. Sunshine 811 asks for a locate request at least two full business days ahead.

Frequently asked questions

Can I clear a lot with a burrowing owl burrow on it?

You can't destroy the burrow without an FWC permit. The City's guidance calls for a 10-foot buffer, or 33 feet during nesting season (Feb 15 to Jul 10), unless FWC issues a permit.

What about gopher tortoises?

FWC says tortoises must be relocated, with an FWC permit, before land clearing.

Who do I ask about City permits for my lot?

The City of Cape Coral Permitting Help Desk at 239-574-0546 or [email protected].

How is lot clearing priced?

It depends on lot size, how thick the brush is, the number of trees and stumps, wildlife constraints and hauling. The company gives you its own quote.

How the matching works

1. Tell us about the job on the short form or by calling (239) 268-6544.
2. We pass it along to an independent local company that covers your area.
3. The company contacts you, looks at the site if needed and gives you its own quote.
4. You decide. There is no obligation to hire.

Related pages

• Stump grinding in Cape Coral
• Storm cleanup in Cape Coral
• Land clearing in North Fort Myers
• What affects the price

Request a free quote · Call (239) 268-6544

Cape Coral Tree Removal is a free referral service operated by Maydin Media LLC. We do not perform tree work, set prices, or employ the contractors. We connect you with independent local tree service companies who call you back with their own quote. Requesting a quote is free and there is no obligation to hire.