Why Remove Your Old Lawn?
Say goodbye to high water bills, brown patches, endless mowing, and muddy messes! Removing your existing grass is the first step to transforming your yard with artificial turf. This process clears the way for a solid base, ensuring your new turf looks great and lasts for years. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the grass removal process, recommend the right tools, and share tips to make your DIY project a success.
At turfinstall.com, we’re committed to being your ultimate resource for artificial turf projects. If this step feels overwhelming, our team at Idaho Turf Supply can connect you with professional installers to handle the heavy lifting.
Tools You Need
Sod Cutter
A sod cutter slices through grass and roots for easy removal. Rent one from a local hardware store for efficiency.
Shovel
Wheelbarrow
Rake
A heavy-duty rake helps smooth the surface and remove small debris after digging.
How to Remove Your Grass
Measure and Plan
Determine the area where you’ll install your artificial turf. Measure the length and width to calculate the square footage. This helps estimate how much soil you’ll remove and dispose of.
Check Local Regulations
Visit your city’s website (e.g., Boise’s municipal site) for guidelines on soil and grass disposal. Some areas require specific disposal methods or permits.
Prepare Your Tools
Gather a sod cutter, shovel, wheelbarrow, rake, and optional dump trailer. Wear gloves, sturdy boots, and safety glasses to protect yourself.
Remove the Grass
Use a sod cutter to slice through the grass and roots, creating strips that are easy to roll up and remove. For smaller areas or tight corners, use a shovel to dig out the grass and topsoil. Aim to remove about 4 inches of material to make room for the new base.
Transport Debris
Load removed grass and soil into a wheelbarrow and transfer it to a dump trailer or designated disposal area. Soil accumulates quickly, so keep your worksite organized.
Clean Up
Use a rake to smooth the surface and remove any remaining debris, such as small roots or rocks. This prepares the area for the next step: adding the base.
Grass Removal Videos
Minimal Tools
This shows a process for removing turf/sod without using a powered sod cutting machine. The videos below use a variety of hand tools and some unconventional use of power tools.
Sod Cutters
A sod cutter can save a great deal of time for large jobs.  We recommend using one when you are tackling an entire yard. Check out these videos covering the full range of sod cutters.
Optional Equipment
Dump Trailer
A dump trailer is a game-changer for efficiently disposing of the grass and soil you remove during your turf project. Capable of holding large volumes of debris, it saves time compared to multiple trips with a wheelbarrow. To tow a dump trailer, you’ll need a vehicle with sufficient towing capacity, such as a pickup truck or a heavy-duty SUV. Check the trailer’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), typically 5,000–14,000 lbs for common dump trailers, and ensure your vehicle’s towing capacity matches or exceeds it. You’ll also need a compatible hitch: a 2-inch or 2-5/16-inch ball hitch is standard for most dump trailers, along with a 7-pin electrical connector for brake lights and signals.
Don’t own a dump trailer? Rent One From Us
Tools
Top 10 Landscaping Shovels
Preparing your yard for artificial turf installation requires the right tools, and a high-quality shovel is essential for tasks like removing grass and spreading base materials, as outlined in the Private-Label Install Guide. At turfinstall.com, we recommend top shovels like the durable Bully Tools 12-Gauge Round Point Shovel for digging…
Top Sod Cutters
Preparing for an artificial turf installation starts with choosing the right sod cutter to create a smooth, level base. Our latest article at turfinstall.com reviews the top sod cutters for 2025, including the Classen PRO Hydro-Drive, Billy Goat SC181H, and KisCutter, highlighting their features and suitability for DIY and professional…
Best Wheelbarrows
When selecting a wheelbarrow for artificial turf installation, prioritize high weight capacity, multi-wheel stability for uneven terrain, durable materials, and user-friendly features like comfortable handles or quick-release dumping. These factors ensure efficiency and ease during your project.
The Best Rakes
Choosing the right rake for your artificial turf project is vital for achieving a professional finish and maintaining long-term performance. From the versatile TurfHub Turf Rake to the powerful Duralawn Artificial Grass Power Rake, these tools cater to a range of needs, ensuring your turf stays pristine. Visit turfinstall.com for…