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Detailed mapping of elevation changes and natural features on the property.

Soil testers and licensed excavators are often the professionals you hire if you need a perc test. In some cases, structural engineers will also be able to conduct the test for you. In many municipalities, you’ll need your professional on-site to dig and fill the holes with water, as well as a representative from your local building department or health department. That representative is the individual who will determine whether your test passes or fails.

Professionals who complete perc tests can usually do them in a single day. Including excavating to expose the test site, filling the hole with water, and monitoring it while it drains, you can expect the test to take between four and eight hours total. It’s possible that you’ll get the results the same day, but some companies may take a few days to get official results.

Permit requirements to clear land vary by municipality, so whether or not you need permits depends on where you live and what you’re removing from the land. Some building departments will require permits for any underground work or excavation, meaning grinding down tree stumps on your property would require permits. Others mandate individual permits for each tree you remove. You can contact your local building department or a land-clearing specialist near you to see if permits are necessary for your job.