Fill and grading set a lot's height and how rain leaves it: building up a low spot, shaping a house pad, sloping ground away from the foundation, or leveling a yard. Fort Myers sits at an elevation of about 10 feet, so where water goes gets attention on almost every job.
The ground here
Angi's Tampa guide, the nearest published Florida metro figures, describes a mix of sandy soils and dense clay that shifts in the wet summer season, and high water tables. It notes that summer storms can saturate the ground and make access harder, and that proper grading helps direct water away from homes during hurricane season.
Published prices
| Work | Published range | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Grading and leveling | $405 to $6,560 | Angi, Tampa |
| Leveling | $5 to $15 per cubic yard | Angi, Tampa |
| Hauling dirt | $10 to $30 per cubic yard | Angi, Tampa |
| Surveys and permits | $55 to $555 combined | Angi, Tampa |
| Land grading and leveling | $800 to $4,000 | Lawn Love, national |
State stormwater permit
Florida DEP's Construction Generic Permit covers construction that disturbs 1 acre or more, or less as part of a larger common plan, when stormwater reaches surface waters of the state or a municipal storm sewer system.
- Write the SWPPP.A stormwater pollution prevention plan, followed on site.
- File the Notice of Intent.With the fee, at least 2 calendar days before construction: $250 for 1 to under 5 acres, $400 for 5 acres or more.
- Copy the storm sewer operator.If the site drains to a storm sewer system, send it a copy within 7 calendar days.
- Close it out.Coverage runs up to five years; file a Notice of Termination within 14 days of final stabilization.
Wetlands
Filling or excavating in wetlands typically needs an Environmental Resource Permit from DEP or the South Florida Water Management District, per Lee County. See land clearing.
Sources
- Angi: How much does excavation cost in Tampa, FL? (updated June 16, 2026)
- Lawn Love: How much does it cost to clear land? (Sinziana Spiridon, updated December 27, 2025)
- Florida Department of Environmental Protection: Construction Activity (stormwater Construction Generic Permit)
- Lee County Environmental Sciences: Wetland permitting
- Wikipedia: Fort Myers, Florida
Reviewed October 20, 2026. Rules, prices and contacts change, so check the source before relying on it.
Questions and answers
When do I need Florida's stormwater permit for grading?
When construction disturbs 1 acre or more (or is part of a larger common plan) and stormwater reaches surface waters or a storm sewer system. The Notice of Intent and fee are due at least 2 calendar days before work starts.
How much does grading cost near Fort Myers?
We don't have Fort Myers data. Angi's Tampa guide lists grading and leveling at $405 to $6,560 and hauling at $10 to $30 per cubic yard.
Get your fill or grading quoted
Phone or fill in the form and a contractor who works in Lee County will get back to you. There's no charge for a quote.
Reached voicemail? Leave your name, number, the address and a line about the job.