Do I Need a License or Certification to Operate a Landscaping Business?
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- Sep 29
- 3 min read
If you're planning to start a landscaping business, one of the first questions you’ll face is: Do I need a license or certification to operate legally? Whether you offer lawn care, hardscaping, irrigation installation, tree trimming, or garden maintenance, understanding your local licensing and certification requirements is essential to avoid fines and build trust with clients.
In this guide, we’ll break down the types of licenses and certifications landscaping
contractors may need, how they vary by state, and why working with a specialized agency like Wexford Insurance is key to protecting your business.
Do You Need a License to Start a Landscaping Business?
Yes—depending on your location and services. Most states require a business license to legally operate, and some require specialized contractor licenses for services like:
Tree trimming
Irrigation system installation
Pesticide or fertilizer application
Hardscaping and landscape construction
Even if your state doesn’t require a landscaping-specific license, your city or county might. Always check with your local licensing board before starting work.
Common Licenses and Certifications for Landscaping Contractors
Here are the most common credentials required or recommended for landscaping professionals:
1. Business License
Required in most states to legally operate. You’ll typically need to:
Register your business entity (LLC, sole proprietorship, etc.)
Apply through your city or county
Pay a licensing fee
2. Landscape Contractor License
Required in states like California, Oregon, and North Carolina. Often includes:
2–4 years of experience
Trade and business law exams
Surety bond ($10,000–$15,000)
3. Pesticide Applicator License
Required in all 50 states under EPA regulations. Needed if you apply herbicides or insecticides.
Core exam + category-specific tests
Annual continuing education
Regulated by state agriculture departments
4. Irrigation Contractor License
Required in 11 states. Covers:
Hydraulics
Backflow prevention
Electrical controls
Water budgeting
5. Fertilizer Application Certification
Required in states like Florida, Ohio, and Maryland. Needed to apply fertilizers safely and legally.
Course + exam
Renewal every few years
6. Landscape Industry Certifications (Optional but Valuable)
Certifications from organizations like the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) help boost credibility and professionalism.
Landscape Industry Certified Technician
Certified Irrigation Contractor
Certified Grounds Manager
Why Licensing and Certification Matter
Legal Protection – Avoid fines, stop-work orders, and lawsuits
Professional Credibility – Clients often verify licenses before hiring
Business Growth – Licensed contractors can bid on premium projects
Environmental Safety – Proper training reduces risks to people and nature
Don’t Forget Insurance
Licensing is only part of the equation. You also need landscaping contractor insurance to protect your business from accidents, property damage, and employee injuries.
At Wexford Insurance, we help landscaping businesses get the coverage they need, including:
Final Thoughts
Licensing and certification requirements vary by state, but they’re essential for operating a legal, credible, and successful landscaping business. Whether you're applying pesticides, installing irrigation, or offering full-service landscape design, make sure you're compliant—and protected.
Let Wexford Insurance help you navigate the insurance side of your business so you can focus on growing your company.
💬 Ready to protect your landscaping business?
Contact Wexford Insurance today.
