How to Start a Site Cleanup Business
Debris removal, construction cleanup, and lot clearing
Site cleanup is consistent, year-round work that pairs well with other services. Rates track closely to base wet-hire ($80-$250/hr) plus dump truck hauling ($120-$165/hr) and disposal fees. Often quoted as flat-rate projects including all costs. Strong demand from construction companies, property managers, and homeowners.
$100-$150
Machine hourly
+$120-$165
Dump truck/hr
+$80-$200
Disposal/load
Year-round
Demand
Common Site Cleanup Jobs
Construction Site Cleanup
$400-$1,500+End-of-project cleanup: debris consolidation, material sorting, final prep.
Vacant Lot Clearing
$500-$2,000Clearing overgrown lots of debris, junk, and vegetation.
Storm Damage Cleanup
Hourly rateFallen trees, debris, damaged materials. Urgent work after major storms.
Renovation Debris
$300-$800Loading dumpsters or trucks with renovation debris.
Typical Project Cost Breakdown
Example: 4-Hour Site Cleanup with 2 Loads Hauled
Many operators own the dump truck or subcontract hauling at a markup.
Equipment Requirements
Base Machine
Versatile mid-size machine that handles multiple attachments well.
Key Attachments
Grapple bucket: Best for debris. $2,000-$5,000 used.
Standard bucket: Usually included.
Pallet forks: For loading. $1,500-$3,000 used.
Sweeper: For final cleanup. $2,000-$4,000 used.
Dump Truck (Optional)
Many operators subcontract hauling initially.
Own a dump truck: Higher margins but more capital needed.
Subcontract: $120-$165/hr, bill customer at markup.
Province-by-Province Guides
Related Guides
Ready to Buy Equipment?
TrackCheck tracks 17,026+ verified auction sales. See what skid steers and CTLs actually sell for before you buy.
Browse Equipment Listings