5 Signs Your Property Needs Brush Clearing

Shane
Apr 20
2 min read

Owning property in Eastern Washington has its perks — wide open views, privacy, and the beauty of the natural landscape. But with that comes responsibility. Over time, even the most beautiful rural property can become overgrown and hazardous if not properly maintained.

At Rugged Land, we often get called in after things have gotten out of hand. To help you spot the signs early, here are five clear indicators that your property is due for a brush clearing.

You can't see the ground in some areas

If thick brush, tall grass, or invasive plants like hawthorn are covering the ground so much that you can’t see where you’re stepping — it’s time. Dense undergrowth creates a fire hazard, limits accessibility, and can harbor pests or disease-carrying plants.

Tree Limbs Hang Low and Close Together

Overgrown limbs can create what's known as "ladder fuels" — low-hanging branches that allow a ground fire to climb up into the treetops. If trees are growing close together with branches overlapping or touching your structures, this increases the risk of wildfire spread and storm damage.

Your Trails, Driveways, or Access Roads Are Narrowing

A narrow hiking trail with brush on both sides.

Vegetation naturally grows inward — especially along driveways, trails, or fire lanes. If you’re noticing scratches on your vehicle or it’s becoming harder to walk or ride through, brush clearing can restore safe access and improve visibility.

Wildlife and Rodents Are Nesting Near Your Home

Thick brush and fallen limbs make the perfect hiding spots for mice, snakes, and other unwanted visitors. If you’re noticing more critter activity than usual, it's often a sign that overgrowth is giving them too much shelter too close to home.

You Haven’t Cleared Anything in Over a Year

In our region, brush growth is aggressive — especially during spring and early summer. If it’s been more than a year since your last clearing (or if you’ve never done one), chances are your property could benefit from a professional brush cleanup.

Don’t Wait for a Wildfire to Make the Call

Clearing brush isn't just about aesthetics — it’s about safety, usability, and long-term property value. At Rugged Land, we use a combination of equipment (like our track steer and root grapple) and hand tools to tackle even the toughest terrain.