Yard cleanups aren’t glamorous or flashy, but you can absolutely make extra cash with this side hustle.
Want to Make Extra Cash? Yard Cleanups Are a Way to Win 🌿💵
If you’ve got a rake, some gloves, and a little free time, you can turn messy lawns into money. Yard cleanups are one of the simplest side hustles out there—and they don’t require fancy tools or professional licenses to get started.
From leaf removal in the fall to spring debris cleanouts and storm recovery jobs, there’s always someone willing to pay for a little yard help.
What Is a Yard Cleanup Side Hustle?
A yard cleanup side hustle involves helping homeowners, landlords, and property managers tidy up outdoor spaces. Tasks can include:
- Raking leaves
- Removing branches and storm debris
- Pulling weeds
- Bagging yard waste
- Clearing overgrown areas
- Light trimming and lawn edging
It’s typically one-off work (not ongoing lawn mowing), making it perfect for weekend warriors or people who want flexible gigs.
How to Get Started
- Gather basic tools (rake, gloves, trash bags, clippers)
- Advertise locally via Facebook Marketplace, Nextdoor, Craigslist, or flyers
- Offer flat-rate pricing for small/medium yards
- Schedule work for weekends or evenings if you’re doing this part-time
- Provide before/after photos to impress clients and market yourself
đź’ˇ Tip: Yard cleanups are especially in demand after storms or at the beginning and end of growing seasons.
Pros and Cons of Yard Cleanups as a Side Hustle
âś… Pros:
- Low startup costs — basic tools only
- No special training needed
- Work outside and get exercise
- Great local demand
- Flexible schedule
- Easy to scale up by adding team members or more services
❌ Cons:
- Physically demanding work
- Seasonal demand (slow in winter, unless you add snow removal)
- Weather dependent
- Hauling debris may require a truck or trailer
- Can be dirty or unpleasant (bugs, thorns, etc.)
Side Hustle Scorecard: Yard Cleanups
| Category | Score (1-10) |
|---|---|
| Earning Potential | 7 |
| Flexibility | 9 |
| Startup Costs | 9 |
| Skill Required | 2 |
| Scalability | 6 |
| Seasonality | 5 |
| Physical Demand | 8 (high) |
Overall Score: 7.1/10
A great starter hustle for people who don’t mind getting their hands dirty and want to earn quick, local cash.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much can I charge for a yard cleanup?
A: Small jobs typically start at $50–$100. Larger, more overgrown properties can go for $200+. Charge by size, labor, and whether you’re hauling debris away.
Q: Do I need a truck?
A: It helps, but not always necessary. Some clients provide yard waste bins or just want the debris bagged for curbside pickup.
Q: Is it legal to offer yard cleanups without a license?
A: In most areas, yes. But if you expand to ongoing landscaping or use pesticides, check local laws.
Q: Can teenagers do this side hustle?
A: Absolutely! It’s a great first hustle for teens (with parental supervision).
Final Thoughts
Yard cleanups are a down-to-earth way to make extra money with tools you probably already own. Whether you’re saving for a goal, paying down debt, or just enjoy working outdoors, this hustle offers a simple path to profit.
If you’re reliable, polite, and don’t mind sweating a little—you can easily turn overgrown yards into cold hard cash.
For help with how to find clients, check out our post on how to find new clients and customers via Facebook!