Fill Dirt in Madison, WI

Delivered fill-dirt in the Madison area commonly ranges from about $12 to $30 per ton, which typically converts to roughly $15 to $40 per cubic yard depending on moisture and density. Final price depends on supplier, distance, load size, and seasonal demand; Hello Gravel requires a 3-ton minimum and shows local delivery fees at checkout.

For raising grade or filling low spots, use clean, non-organic fill-dirt that can be compacted in lifts; avoid topsoil or material with lots of roots. For the driveway surface, Madison contractors usually recommend a compacted granular base (crusher run or crushed limestone) over compacted fill-dirt rather than using fill-dirt as the finished surface.

Fill-dirt by itself can be vulnerable to freeze-thaw heave, especially when placed over heavy clay or in poorly drained areas common around Madison. To reduce problems, install positive drainage, place fill in thin lifts with proper compaction, and cap with a granular layer to improve drainage and limit frost action.

A 24 ft by 30 ft area raised 6 inches requires about 13.3 cubic yards of material (720 sq ft x 0.5 ft = 360 cu ft; 360/27 = 13.33 yd3). Using a typical conversion of 1.2 to 1.35 tons per cubic yard, that equals roughly 16 to 18 tons; order about 10% extra for compaction and waste, so plan to buy about 18 to 20 tons.

Fill-dirt can be used for non-structural backfill or to bring grade up, but it is not always suitable for structural foundation backfill or around frost-sensitive elements unless it meets compaction and material specs. Local contractors and engineers often specify select granular fill or specified engineered backfill for foundation walls and utility trenches to meet code and reduce settlement risk; check project specs and local codes.

Hello Gravel connects you with local Madison-area suppliers and haulers that offer bulk fill-dirt delivery by dump truck; many suppliers will deliver to your site and some drivers may offer tailgate spreading at their discretion. Check zip code availability on Hello Gravel, request spreading in Order Notes, and expect regional variations in material appearance and consistency.

Fill-dirt is usually cheaper up front for filling and grading, but crushed limestone or crusher run performs better as a driveway surface because it drains and compacts well in Madison's climate. For rural driveways, a typical approach is to use fill-dirt to adjust grade, then install a compacted crushed limestone base and surface for long-term durability and lower maintenance.

If used as a surfaced material, fill-dirt can require replenishment or regrading within 1 to 3 years, especially after harsh winters or heavy traffic. If used only as subgrade and covered with a proper granular base and surface, maintenance intervals will be much longer and reseeding or minor touch-ups are typical.

Small amounts of fill for landscaping usually do not require a permit, but larger grading, changing drainage patterns, or filling that affects neighboring properties can trigger City of Madison permits or erosion control rules. Always check with City of Madison Engineering, Building Inspection, or the county office before large fills or changes to lot drainage to avoid fines or required corrective work.

Installation costs vary by project size, but homeowners in the Madison area commonly pay about $300 to $1,500 for small residential jobs that include delivery, spreading, and compaction. For per-unit budgeting, expect placement and compaction labor/equipment to add roughly $3 to $15 per cubic yard depending on access, lift thickness, and whether a mini-excavator or skid-steer is needed; get local contractor quotes for precise pricing.