Landscaping & Excavation FAQs (Chattanooga area)

Answers to common questions about our landscape and excavation services in the Tennessee Valley

Do I need a permit for a retaining wall?

Yes—Chattanooga requires a permit for retaining walls over 4 feet in height. Source: Chattanooga.gov

Do I have to call 811 before digging?

Yes. Tennessee law says notify TN811 at least 3 working days (but not more than 10) before you dig. Source: TN.gov

How long do utility marks (your 811 ticket) stay valid?

Marks/tickets are valid 15 calendar days from the start date; renew at least 3 working days before they expire. Don’t dig on an expired ticket. Source tenn811.com

How long do locators have to mark the site after I call 811?

Utilities have 72 hours, excluding weekends and holidays, to mark facilities. Source tenn811

Do I need a land-disturbance/grading permit?

For projects that disturb 1 acre or more, you’ll need State NOC coverage and a City Land-Disturbing Permit before work begins. Source Chattanooga

Can I grade or build near a creek or wetland?

Work inside Chattanooga’s 30- or 60-foot riparian buffer needs a stormwater variance before any land-disturbing activity. Source: Chattanooga

What plant hardiness zone is Chattanooga?

Most of Chattanooga is USDA Zone 7b with some 8a pockets; choose plants accordingly. Source Plantmaps

When’s the best time to plant in Chattanooga?

Generally spring and fall; check local frost windows to plan installs and transplanting according to the Almanac

What grass types do well here—fescue or Bermuda?

Both can work: tall fescue for cooler seasons/shade, Bermuda for full sun and heavy use. (UT Extension recommends tall fescue widely for TN lawns.)

Can you handle steep slopes or rocky ground (Signal/Lookout Mountain)?

Yes—we design walls, drainage, and grading plans for slopes and rocky soils to keep sites stable and usable.

Do you provide drainage fixes (standing water, soggy spots)?

Yes—regrading, downspout routing, French drains, and other BMPs designed to local stormwater standards.

Do you work on both homes and commercial sites?

Yes—backyard makeovers, new-build site prep, and commercial projects across the Chattanooga metro area.

How long does a typical design-to-build project take?

Small upgrades: days; full design + hardscape/excavation: several weeks. We give a clear timeline after the site visit and utility locates.

Who pulls permits and coordinates inspections?

We handle permits and coordinate with the City/County so your project stays compliant and on schedule

How soon can you start an excavation project after I approve the estimate?

After required permits and TN811 locates clear (minimum 3 working days), we schedule mobilization.

What areas do you serve?

Chattanooga, Signal Mountain, Lookout Mountain, Jasper, Walden, Cleveland, Dayton, and Decatur, TN.

What you Can Expect

One team for design, excavation, drainage, and build
Respect for your property and neighbors
Clear updates from start to finish
Work across Chattanooga, Signal Mountain, Lookout Mountain, Jasper, Walden, Cleveland, Dayton, and Decatur, TN