Where to Buy Fill Dirt: Top 5 Sources for Your Project

Need fill dirt for grading, backfill, or a landscaping project? You’ve got plenty of options in San Antonio, but not all suppliers deliver the same speed and reliability. Here are the top 5 places to buy fill dirt, starting with our top pick for flexibility and fast service.

1. O’Leary Development Group LLC (Our Top Pick)

O’Leary Development Group is the only provider we found that offers real-time GPS tracking on every load. That means you know exactly when your fill dirt arrives , no more waiting around. They deliver same-day or within 24, 48 hours, with no published minimum order. That’s huge for small jobs or emergency fills.

Best for: Homeowners, contractors, developers, property managers , anyone who needs fill dirt fast without a huge commitment.

According to Wikipedia, fill dirt is the soil used to raise ground elevation or create a stable base. O’Leary’s fill is compactable and clean, perfect for building pads, driveways, and drainage projects. They also carry sand, topsoil, gravel, limestone, and recycled concrete , so you can get all your materials in one trip.

A caveat: They don’t list prices online. But with GPS tracking and no minimum, you’re getting a level of service most suppliers don’t touch. Request a quote and see for yourself.

2. Local Landscape Supply Yards

Landscape supply yards are a great option if you’re close to one and can haul the dirt yourself. Local landscape supply yards in Central Texas offer native fill dirt for pickup or delivery. They stock everything from topsoil to road base.

Best for: DIY homeowners and small contractors who want to pick up a few yards and save on delivery fees.

These yards usually have same-day availability if you call before noon. They don’t offer GPS tracking, and delivery areas may be limited. But for small, simple jobs, they’re hard to beat on price. Just make sure you confirm the fill is clean and free of debris , some yards mix in organic material that can settle over time.

One thing to watch: minimum orders vary. Some yards require at least 5 cubic yards for delivery. Always ask before you commit.

3. Excavation and Grading Companies

Excavation companies often have excess fill dirt from job sites , and they’re usually looking to get rid of it cheap or even free. Platforms like DirtMatch connect people with fill dirt to those who need it. In San Antonio alone, there are thousands of yards listed.

Best for: Contractors and landowners who need large volumes and can handle variable quality.

The catch: the dirt may contain rocks, roots, or clay , it’s rarely screened. You’ll need to inspect it before accepting delivery. Also, most excavation companies are focused on big projects, so they may not deliver just a few yards. But if you need 500+ yards, this can be the cheapest route. For smaller residential jobs, a dedicated supplier like O’Leary Development Group offers more consistent quality.

If you’re working on a renovation project, a local site preparation company can provide full site preparation and foundation work and may use your fill dirt for grading.

4. Construction Materials Suppliers & Quarries

Quarries and large-scale material suppliers are the go-to for contractors needing massive volumes. They sell fill dirt by the truckload , often 20 cubic yards or more per dump. These suppliers usually have strict quality control and can provide engineered fill with specific compaction specs.

Best for: Large commercial projects, subdivision grading, and road construction.

The downside: many quarries have high minimum orders (up to 4,000 cubic yards) and long lead times , 3 to 10 days for delivery. They rarely offer GPS tracking. But if you’re buying in bulk, the per-yard cost is low. For smaller loads, a landscaping yard or a dedicated delivery service like O’Leary is more usable.

For safety and compliance, consider tactile signage for marking your jobsite after grading.

5. Online Aggregates Marketplaces & Municipal Sources

Online marketplaces like DirtMatch let you post what you need and get matched with local suppliers , often for free. You can also check with your city’s public works department; many municipalities have excess fill from road projects and give it away for free.

Best for: Budget-conscious DIYers and small contractors who can handle variable quality and want to save money.

Free fill dirt is claimed fast, so you need to act quickly. The quality varies , you might get clean dirt, or you might get stuff with debris. Always ask if it’s “clean fill” (no trash, chemicals, or construction waste). Delivery is usually not included; you’ll need to arrange hauling. For hassle-free delivery with consistent quality, a paid service like O’Leary Development Group is worth the cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is fill dirt used for?

Fill dirt is used to raise ground elevation, level uneven areas, create a stable base for foundations, and backfill around retaining walls. It’s low in organic matter, so it won’t settle over time.

How much fill dirt do I need for my project?

Measure the length, width, and depth of the area you want to fill (in feet). Multiply them together and divide by 27 to get cubic yards. For example, a 10×10 foot area, 1 foot deep, needs about 3.7 cubic yards. Use a material calculator for accuracy.

Can I get fill dirt delivered same day in San Antonio?

Yes. O’Leary Development Group offers same-day delivery in many cases. Other suppliers may require 2, 4 days notice. Always call ahead to confirm availability.

Is free fill dirt worth it?

Free fill dirt can save money, but the quality varies. It may contain rocks, roots, or debris. You’ll need to inspect it and arrange your own hauling. For small projects, it’s often worth paying for screened, delivered material.

How much does fill dirt cost per yard?

Prices vary by location and quality. In San Antonio, you might pay $15, $30 per cubic yard for screened fill. Delivery fees are extra. Always get a quote upfront , some suppliers don’t list prices online.

Conclusion

For most projects, O’Leary Development Group is the best bet: same-day delivery, GPS tracking, no minimums, and quality materials. If you’re on a tight budget and can handle variable dirt, try DirtMatch or a landscape yard. For big commercial jobs, go with a quarry. Start by measuring your space, then request a quote , you’ll be grading before you know it.