How much does excavation and grading cost in Augusta, ME?

Most Augusta homeowners spend between $7,900 – $23,600 on excavation and grading, with an average around $15,800. Local labor prices 5% above the national average, so Augusta quotes tend to land at the higher end of national ranges.

Why is excavation and grading more or less expensive in Augusta than elsewhere?

Licensed trade labor in Augusta runs about 105% of the national average, and the best crews book out fastest in spring and early summer. Maine weather drives material choices here, so ask contractors what they install most often in Augusta and why.

Do I need a permit for excavation and grading in Augusta, Maine?

Most Augusta, ME projects that change structure, electrical, plumbing or mechanical systems need a permit from the local building department; cosmetic work usually does not. Always confirm current requirements with the local building department before signing a contract, and make sure the permit is pulled by your licensed contractor.

How many quotes should I get in Augusta?

Get at least three written quotes from licensed, insured Maine contractors. Comparing line items — not just the bottom line — is the fastest way to spot an inflated bid in the Augusta metro market.

How much does excavation and grading cost in 2026?

Most homeowners pay between $7,500 and $22,500, with a national average near $15,000. Small, simple jobs land at the low end; large or premium-material jobs run well above the high end.

What is the cost per cubic yard?

Installed pricing usually runs $50.00 to $150.00 per cubic yard, including labor and materials. Expensive metros can run 15–45% higher than that range.

What drives the price up the most?

Scope and access. Larger quantities lower your per-cubic yard price, but difficult access, demolition of existing work, structural repairs found mid-job, premium materials and rush scheduling each add 8–30%.

Permits are typically required when the work changes structure or ties into electrical, plumbing, gas or mechanical systems. Budget $75–$600 in most cities and confirm whether your contractor pulls it — unpermitted work can block a future home sale.

How long does the job take?

Most residential projects of this type finish in one to five working days once materials are on site. Custom orders, inspections and weather are the usual causes of delay.

How many quotes should I get?

Three. Bids on the same scope commonly vary 20–40%, and the middle bid with the strongest warranty and references is usually the best value — the cheapest bid often excludes prep, disposal or permits.

Home/Cost guides/Excavation and Grading/Augusta, ME

Augusta metro · Maine

Excavation and Grading cost in Augusta, ME

Augusta homeowners typically pay $7,900 – $23,600 for excavation and grading. Local labor and materials price 5% above the national average.

Get my Augusta estimate Use the Augusta calculator

Augusta average

$15,800

Typical low

$7,900

Typical high

$23,600

Per cubic yard

$53 – $160

Sample ZIP

What drives Augusta pricing

Local labor

Licensed trade labor in Augusta runs about 105% of the national average, and the best crews book out fastest in spring and early summer.

Permits & code

Most Augusta, ME projects that change structure, electrical, plumbing or mechanical systems need a permit from the local building department; cosmetic work usually does not.

Climate & conditions

Maine weather drives material choices here, so ask contractors what they install most often in Augusta and why.

Instant cost calculator

Adjust the inputs to see live pricing

Material to move (cubic yards)150 cubic yards

Quality / material level

Site access

Removal / prep work

Timing

Estimated project cost

$9,263 – $12,683

Most homeowners pay around $10,973

Compare quality / material level

Cost by material in Augusta

Installed Augusta pricing per cubic yard.

Option	Installed cost	Pros	Cons
Simple grading	$65 – $89	—	—
Standard excavation and haul	$89 – $120	—	—
Rock or difficult soil	$120 – $150	—	—
Excavation with retaining and drainage	$150 – $210	—	—

Where the money goes in Augusta

A typical $15,800 Augusta project, broken down by line item.

Labor0.45% · $71
Materials0.38% · $60
Permits & inspections0.05% · $8
Overhead & profit0.12% · $19

Common add-ons

Extras that show up on Augusta quotes but rarely in the headline price.

Soil haul-off

$21 – $63

Rock breaking

$105 – $315

Erosion control

$525 – $3,150

Compaction testing

$420 – $1,600

Ways to save in Augusta

Keep excavated soil on site for backfill and berms to avoid haul-off.
Schedule when the ground is dry — wet soil doubles handling time.
Collect three written bids on an identical scope — spreads of 20–40% are normal.
Book in the off-season and stay flexible on the start date to save 5–15%.
Bundle nearby work into one mobilization so you only pay setup and travel once.
Ask what the contractor would change to cut 10% without hurting durability.

Augusta FAQs

Get a Augusta price you can budget against

Answer a few questions about your project and we'll model a low, average and premium price for your ME ZIP code — then connect you with vetted local pros.

Get free quotes from certified pros

More Augusta research

Best excavation and grading companies in Augusta Excavation and Grading permits in Maine Excavation and Grading near me All Maine prices

Excavation and Grading cost near Augusta

Excavation and Grading cost in Augusta, GA

$6,997 – $20,903

More Maine cities

Portland Lewiston Bangor

Other project costs in Augusta

Fence Installation in Augusta

$1,575 – $4,200

Roof Replacement in Augusta

$8,925 – $35,700

Kitchen Remodel in Augusta

$18,900 – $99,750

HVAC Replacement in Augusta

$5,775 – $18,900

Deck Building in Augusta

$4,620 – $12,600

Window Replacement in Augusta

$473 – $1,575

See every Augusta cost guide