If you’re building your own home in Victor, Driggs, Cedron, Alta, or anywhere in Teton Valley without a general contractor, one of your first major milestones will be excavation. Before we bring in the big machines, there’s a checklist to hit so the dig starts on time, safely, and efficiently.

I’ve worked with plenty of first-time homeowners acting as their own GC, and I know how much there is to juggle. My job isn’t just to run an excavator — it’s to make sure you feel confident and supported every step of the way. Here’s how to get your site ready, and how I help take the stress off your plate.

1. Get a Porta Potty on Site

It’s not glamorous, but it’s essential. Crews will be on your property for long stretches, and we need facilities.

  • B’s Portables is a reliable local provider.

  • I can help coordinate placement so it’s accessible for servicing but not in the way of machines.

2. Have Your Plans Printed and Ready

Even if I’ve reviewed digital copies, a full-size printed set of your architectural and engineering plans on site is non-negotiable.

  • Architectural plans show the footprint and layout.

  • Engineering plans include foundation details, elevations, and special notes.

  • In Driggs, Stinky Prints can run full-size plan prints quickly.

If you’re not sure what to print or where to get it done, I’ll walk you through exactly what’s needed.

3. Get the Site Staked by a Surveyor

The excavation can’t start until your foundation is professionally staked per your plans.

  • Stakes mark corners, building offsets, and elevations.

  • A-W Engineering and other local surveyors can handle this.

  • If you don’t know who to call, I can recommend trusted surveyors and make sure they have the right info.

4. Mark Utilities Before Dig Day

Digging without locating utilities is dangerous and illegal.

  • Call 811 at least a few business days in advance.

  • In most cases, I’ll handle this for you — especially if you’re not used to the process — so nothing gets missed.

5. Clear Access for Equipment

Make sure we have a clear, stable path in and out for trucks and excavators.

  • Remove temporary fencing, debris, or stored materials.

  • Trim trees or brush that block access.

  • If it’s muddy, we can talk about adding temporary gravel or a road base, so heavy equipment doesn’t sink.

6. Know Where the Spoil Will Go

We’ll be moving a lot of soil. I’ll help you decide:

  • Should it be stored on site for backfill?

  • Hauled off entirely? (This adds cost and trucking time.)

  • Used for berms or landscaping later?

Planning this ahead avoids piles ending up in the wrong place.

7. Coordinate Site Services Early

If excavation will also involve trenching for:

  • Power

  • Fiber/Internet

  • Water lines

  • Septic

…I can help you coordinate routes with utility providers and confirm trench depths/locations before we start. Requirements vary between Victor, Driggs, and Alta, so I’ll make sure we’re in compliance.

8. Handle Permits & Paperwork

Some excavation-related work (like septic systems) requires permits before we can start. I’ll help you check that:

  • Your septic design is approved.

  • County permits are posted.

  • Your engineer is looped in if changes are needed.

9. Watch the Weather & Ground Conditions

In Teton Valley, wet springs and frozen winters affect dig speed and compaction. I’ll help you schedule for the most efficient (and cost-effective) window — and if timing is tight, I’ll let you know how the current ground conditions will impact the job.

My Promise to First-Time Homeowners

If you’re acting as your own GC, excavation prep can feel overwhelming. My role is to not just dig, but to help you:

  • Coordinate with other starting trades.

  • Avoid common mistakes.

  • Keep the schedule moving.

  • Understand each step before it happens.

When you work with ParkFab, you’re not left to figure it out alone — I guide you through the process so you can focus on the big picture of your build, knowing the sitework is handled.

Ready to get your site excavation-ready in Victor, Driggs, Cedron, Alta, or anywhere in Teton Valley?
📞 208-360-2411
🌐 parkfab.com
📧 shawn@parkfab.com