Alabama
A Horticulture Professional Services license is required to perform landscaping services in Alabama. The license is regulated by the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries. To qualify, applicants must submit an application to the department, pay a $175 licensing fee, and demonstrate relevant landscaping or horticulture experience.
The license covers landscape design, installation, turf and ornamental pest control, and tree surgery. Contractors who apply pesticides must also obtain a Commercial Applicator License from the same department. Licenses are valid for one year, from October 1 to September 30, and must be renewed annually to maintain licensure.
Alaska
A specialty contractor license is required to operate as a landscaping contractor in Alaska. The Division of Corporations, Business, and Professional Licensing manages and issues this license. Applicants must complete a state application, provide proof of general liability insurance, secure a $10,000 surety bond, and maintain workers’ compensation coverage for any employees.
For smaller landscaping businesses focused on lawn care or planting, only a local business license may be required. The contractor license is valid for two years, after which proof of continued insurance and bonding must be submitted for renewal.
Arizona
Arizona requires most professional landscape contractors to hold a C-21 Landscaping and Irrigation Systems license issued by the Arizona Registrar of Contractors. The license is required for projects involving irrigation, hardscaping, or any landscaping work valued at over $1,000. Applicants must verify at least four years of professional landscaping experience and pass both a trade exam and a business management exam.
Contractors must provide proof of workers’ compensation and general liability insurance as well as a surety bond that varies by company revenue. Businesses applying herbicides or fertilizers must also obtain a Pesticide Applicator License through the Arizona Department of Agriculture. Licenses renew every two years.
Arkansas
In Arkansas, landscape contractors who install irrigation systems or perform commercial landscape construction must be licensed through the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s State Plant Board. Applicants must submit an application, pay a licensing fee, and show documented experience or education in horticulture or landscape construction.
Contractors must carry liability insurance and workers’ compensation if they employ staff. Those who apply pesticides must pass a separate licensing exam for chemical applications. Licenses are renewed annually, and continuing education is required for pesticide license holders.
California
California requires any person performing landscape construction work worth more than $500 to hold a C-27 Landscaping Contractor License from the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). The license covers all landscape construction work, including irrigation systems, planting, grading, and decorative installations.
Applicants must demonstrate at least four years of journey-level experience, pass both the trade and business law exams, and complete fingerprinting and background checks. Proof of bonding, workers’ compensation insurance, and a valid business license are mandatory. The CSLB license is renewed every two years, with continuing education required for certain classifications.
Colorado
Colorado does not issue a statewide landscaping contractor license. Instead, licensure is handled at the local level through city or county building departments. Professionals who install irrigation systems connected to potable water lines must hold a plumbing license issued by the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA).
Landscaping or lawn care businesses typically need a local business license and registration with the Colorado Department of Revenue. Requirements and fees vary by municipality, and renewals are based on local jurisdiction timelines.
Connecticut
Landscaping professionals in Connecticut who perform pesticide applications, arborist work, or large-scale home improvement projects must hold a state license. Oversight is managed by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) for pesticide and arborist licensure, and by the Department of Consumer Protection (DCP) for home improvement contractor registration.
Applicants must pass the appropriate licensing exams, provide proof of insurance, and renew their credentials annually or biennially depending on license type. Continuing education is required for pesticide applicators to maintain licensure.
Delaware
Delaware does not issue a dedicated landscaping contractor license, but anyone applying fertilizers or pesticides must be certified by the Delaware Department of Agriculture. All landscaping companies are also required to maintain a Delaware business license through the Division of Revenue.
Applicants must pass a pesticide applicator exam, submit proof of liability insurance, and renew annually with continuing education credits. There is no separate state requirement for landscape design or installation unless local ordinances specify otherwise.
Florida
Florida requires irrigation installers and pesticide applicators to hold professional licenses. Oversight is shared between the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS).
To qualify for licensure, contractors must pass a trade and business exam, maintain general liability and workers’ compensation insurance, and in some cases, secure a surety bond. Pesticide applicators are required to pass the FDACS exam and renew every two years with continuing education. Many counties and cities also have additional business licensing requirements for lawn care or landscaping contractors.
Georgia
Georgia requires licensure for landscape contractors who perform structural work such as retaining walls, grading, or irrigation installation. The Georgia State Licensing Board for Residential and General Contractors manages the licensing process.
Applicants must verify experience in landscaping or construction, pass both a trade and business law exam, and provide proof of workers’ compensation and general liability insurance. Those applying pesticides must also hold a Pesticide Applicator License from the Georgia Department of Agriculture. Licenses renew every two years and require continuing education to stay in good standing.
Hawaii
Hawaii requires landscape contractors who perform construction, irrigation, or grading work to hold a C-27b Landscaping Contractor License through the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA). The license covers landscape installation, maintenance, and minor structural work such as retaining walls and patios.
Applicants must provide proof of four years of experience, pass both a trade and law exam, and show evidence of general liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage. Licenses are valid for two years and require renewal with updated insurance verification.
Idaho
Idaho does not have a statewide landscaping contractor license, but businesses that apply pesticides or herbicides must be certified through the Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA). For construction-related work, such as irrigation or hardscaping, some cities may require a local contractor registration.
Landscaping companies must register their business with the Idaho Secretary of State and maintain liability insurance. Pesticide applicator licenses require passing an ISDA exam and renewing every two years with continuing education.
Illinois
Illinois does not license general landscaping contractors but regulates pesticide and herbicide use under the Illinois Department of Agriculture. Businesses that apply pesticides must have at least one certified Commercial Pesticide Applicator on staff.
Landscape architects are licensed separately through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Most landscaping businesses only need to register with the Secretary of State and hold local business licenses where required.
Indiana
Indiana does not require a state landscaping contractor license, though some municipalities regulate irrigation installation or landscape construction locally. Pesticide use is governed by the Office of the Indiana State Chemist.
Contractors who apply fertilizers or herbicides must obtain a commercial applicator certification and maintain proof of liability insurance. Business registration and tax compliance through the Secretary of State and Department of Revenue are also required.
Iowa
Iowa does not license general landscaping contractors but requires pesticide applicators to be certified by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS). Landscaping professionals performing irrigation or construction may need a local building permit depending on the county or city.
To apply for a pesticide applicator license, contractors must pass a written exam and renew annually with continuing education. All landscaping businesses must also obtain a local business license and maintain insurance.
Kansas
Kansas does not have a specific landscaping contractor license. However, pesticide applicators must obtain certification from the Kansas Department of Agriculture. Licensure is required for individuals or businesses that use or supervise the use of restricted-use pesticides.
Most landscaping contractors simply need a local business license and liability insurance. Those offering irrigation or structural landscaping services should check with their city’s building department for additional registration or permit requirements.
Kentucky
Kentucky requires pesticide applicators to be licensed through the Kentucky Department of Agriculture but does not regulate general landscaping or lawn-care contractors at the state level.
Applicants must complete the department’s training program, pass an exam, and renew annually with continuing education credits. Businesses performing hardscaping or irrigation work may need local contractor registration depending on the municipality.
Louisiana
Louisiana requires anyone performing landscape horticulture services to obtain a Landscape Horticulturist License from the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry (LDAF). The license covers landscape design, planting, irrigation, and lawn maintenance.
Applicants must pass both a written and practical exam, maintain proof of general liability insurance, and renew annually. Pesticide applicators must also obtain separate certification from the LDAF.
Maine
Maine does not require a state landscaping contractor license, but pesticide applicators must be licensed through the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry. Landscape architects are licensed separately through the Maine State Board for Licensure of Architects, Landscape Architects, and Interior Designers.
Businesses performing landscaping work must register with the state and maintain proof of liability insurance. Pesticide applicator licenses are renewed annually with continuing education credits.
Maryland
Landscaping professionals in Maryland who apply fertilizers, pesticides, or perform erosion control work must be licensed. Oversight is shared between the Maryland Department of Agriculture and the Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC).
Contractors who apply pesticides must pass a certification exam and maintain liability insurance. Landscape construction and irrigation work may require a home improvement contractor license from MHIC. Licenses are valid for two years and require renewal with proof of insurance and continuing education for pesticide-related work.
Massachusetts
Massachusetts requires landscape professionals who apply pesticides or herbicides to obtain certification through the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR). Landscape architects are licensed separately under the Board of Registration of Landscape Architects.
General landscaping and lawn-care contractors are not licensed at the state level but must register their businesses locally and carry general liability insurance. Pesticide applicators must pass a written exam, maintain records of product use, and renew certification annually with continuing education.
Michigan
Michigan does not require a state landscaping contractor license, but companies applying fertilizers or pesticides must be licensed through the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD). Applicators must complete a training course, pass a state exam, and maintain insurance coverage.
Businesses offering irrigation or landscape construction may need a local building permit or contractor registration depending on the municipality. All landscaping businesses must also register their business name and obtain state tax identification through the Department of Treasury.
Minnesota
Minnesota does not license general landscaping contractors, but pesticide applicators are regulated by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. Irrigation contractors may require local registration for plumbing work that connects to water lines.
Applicants for pesticide licensure must complete training, pass an exam, and renew annually with proof of continuing education. Landscaping businesses should also register with the Secretary of State and maintain liability insurance to comply with local and state requirements.
Mississippi
Mississippi requires landscape contractors performing work over $50,000 to hold a Landscape Construction License through the Mississippi State Board of Contractors. Smaller lawn-care and maintenance companies do not require licensure but must maintain a business license in their city or county.
Applicants must pass a trade exam, provide proof of general liability and workers’ compensation insurance, and pay an application fee. Licenses are renewed annually with continuing education recommended.
Missouri
Missouri does not license landscape contractors at the state level. Pesticide applicators must be certified by the Missouri Department of Agriculture.
To obtain certification, contractors must pass a written exam and carry liability insurance. Licenses must be renewed annually with proof of continuing education. Some municipalities require additional business licensing for irrigation or hardscaping services, so checking local ordinances is essential.
Montana
Montana does not require a statewide landscaping contractor license, but pesticide applicators are licensed through the Montana Department of Agriculture. Landscape construction or irrigation work may fall under local contractor registration laws.
Applicants for pesticide licensing must pass an exam and provide proof of insurance. Licenses renew annually with continuing education requirements. Businesses performing general landscaping work should maintain a business license and insurance to meet local compliance standards.
Nebraska
Nebraska does not license general landscaping contractors. However, any professional applying pesticides must obtain a Commercial Applicator License through the Nebraska Department of Agriculture.
Contractors must complete a certification course, pass an exam, and renew annually with continuing education. Those performing irrigation or landscape installation should verify city-level contractor registration requirements.
Nevada
Nevada requires landscaping contractors performing work valued at more than $1,000 to hold a C-10 Landscape Contracting License issued by the Nevada State Contractors Board. The license covers planting, grading, irrigation, and decorative landscape construction.
Applicants must show four years of work experience, pass trade and business exams, and submit a financial statement. Proof of liability insurance and a surety bond are also required. Licenses renew every two years with continuing education encouraged.
New Hampshire
New Hampshire does not require a general landscaping contractor license. Pesticide applicators must be certified through the New Hampshire Department of Agriculture, Markets, and Food.
Applicants must pass a written exam, maintain liability insurance, and renew certification every five years. Landscape architects are licensed through the state Board of Architects, Engineers, and Land Surveyors.
New Jersey
New Jersey does not have a state license for landscape contractors, but pesticide applicators and tree experts must be licensed. Pesticide licensing is handled by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP).
Applicants must pass a state exam, provide proof of insurance, and renew annually with continuing education. Landscape architects are regulated through the New Jersey State Board of Architects. All landscaping businesses must register with the state and carry a local business license.
New Mexico
New Mexico requires a GB-98 General Construction or MM-98 Landscaping Contractor License for any landscape construction valued at more than $7,200. Licensure is overseen by the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department.
Applicants must provide proof of experience, pass trade and business law exams, and maintain general liability and workers’ compensation insurance. The license is valid for three years and requires renewal with proof of continued insurance coverage.
New York
New York does not issue a statewide landscaping contractor license, but pesticide applicators must be certified through the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC). Landscape architects are licensed separately by the State Education Department’s Office of the Professions.
To obtain pesticide certification, applicants must complete a training course, pass a written exam, and maintain liability insurance. Certification must be renewed every three years with continuing education. Many municipalities, including New York City, require local business registration for landscaping services.
North Carolina
North Carolina requires landscapers performing design, installation, or maintenance work exceeding $30,000 to hold a Landscape Contractor License through the North Carolina Landscape Contractors’ Licensing Board.
Applicants must have at least two years of experience, pass a written exam, and show proof of general liability and workers’ compensation insurance. The license covers irrigation, grading, and landscape construction services. Pesticide applicators must also be certified through the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Licenses are renewed annually.
North Dakota
North Dakota does not require general landscape contractor licensing, but pesticide applicators must be certified through the North Dakota Department of Agriculture. Landscape architects are licensed under the State Board of Architecture, Landscape Architecture, and Registered Interior Design.
Commercial pesticide applicators must pass an exam, provide proof of insurance, and renew certification every three years. Most landscaping contractors must also register their businesses locally and maintain proper insurance coverage.
Ohio
Ohio does not have a general landscaping contractor license, but pesticide applicators must be licensed through the Ohio Department of Agriculture. Applicants must pass a core exam and at least one category-specific test depending on the type of application performed.
Landscape architects are licensed separately through the Ohio Landscape Architects Board. Businesses offering general landscaping or lawn care services must register with the Secretary of State and maintain a local business license where required.
Oklahoma
Oklahoma does not require general landscaping contractor licensing but mandates that pesticide applicators be certified by the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food, and Forestry.
Certification requires passing a written exam, maintaining liability insurance, and renewing every five years. Landscape architects are licensed through the Oklahoma Board of Architects, Landscape Architects, and Registered Interior Designers.
Oregon
Oregon requires landscaping professionals who install irrigation, decks, or other landscape construction elements to hold a Landscape Construction Professional License from the Oregon Landscape Contractors Board (LCB).
Applicants must pass both the LCB exam and the business and law exam, provide proof of a surety bond and liability insurance, and renew the license every two years. Pesticide applicators are certified separately through the Oregon Department of Agriculture.
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania does not issue a statewide landscaping contractor license. However, anyone applying pesticides or herbicides must be certified through the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture.
Applicants must complete training, pass an exam, and maintain liability insurance. Landscape architects are licensed through the State Architects Licensure Board. Local business registration and insurance are required for general landscaping operations.
Rhode Island
Rhode Island requires commercial pesticide applicators to be licensed through the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM). Landscape architects are regulated by the State Board of Examiners of Landscape Architects.
There is no separate state landscaping contractor license, but businesses performing landscape design or construction must register as contractors through the Rhode Island Contractors’ Registration and Licensing Board. Licenses and registrations are typically renewed every two years.
South Carolina
South Carolina requires landscapers performing work valued at more than $5,000 to hold a General Contractor License with a classification for landscaping. Licensure is managed by the South Carolina Contractor’s Licensing Board.
Applicants must show two years of experience, pass a trade and business exam, and maintain proof of liability and workers’ compensation insurance. Pesticide applicators are licensed through the South Carolina Department of Pesticide Regulation. Licenses must be renewed biennially.
South Dakota
South Dakota does not require a general landscaping contractor license, but pesticide applicators must be certified through the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources. Landscape architects are licensed by the South Dakota Board of Technical Professions.
Applicants for pesticide certification must pass a written exam, maintain liability insurance, and renew every three years with continuing education. Landscaping companies are also required to register their businesses locally and maintain insurance coverage.
Tennessee
Tennessee requires landscape contractors performing projects valued at $25,000 or more to hold a license issued by the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors. The license covers landscape construction, grading, and irrigation system installation.
Applicants must verify experience, pass both a trade and business law exam, and provide proof of general liability and workers’ compensation insurance. Smaller lawn-care and maintenance businesses only need a local business license. Licenses renew biennially.
Texas
Texas does not license general landscaping contractors at the state level but requires irrigation contractors to hold an Irrigator License issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). Pesticide applicators are regulated by the Texas Department of Agriculture.
Applicants must complete state-approved training, pass an exam, and show proof of liability insurance. Irrigator licenses must be renewed every three years with continuing education, while pesticide licenses require annual renewal.
Utah
Utah requires landscape contractors performing structural work, grading, or irrigation installation to hold an S-330 Landscaping Contractor License issued by the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL).
Applicants must demonstrate two years of relevant experience, pass the state trade and business law exams, and maintain general liability and workers’ compensation insurance. Licenses are renewed every two years with proof of insurance.
Vermont
Vermont does not have a statewide landscaping contractor license, but pesticide applicators must be certified through the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food, and Markets.
Certification requires completing training, passing an exam, and maintaining proof of liability insurance. Licenses renew annually, and continuing education is required for renewal. Landscape architects are licensed through the Vermont Board of Landscape Architects.
Virginia
Virginia requires landscape contractors performing projects valued at more than $1,000 to hold a license issued by the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR). Licenses are divided into Class A, B, or C depending on project size and business revenue.
Applicants must pass a trade and business exam, provide proof of insurance, and in some cases, obtain a surety bond. Pesticide applicators must also be licensed through the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Licenses are renewed every two years.
Washington
Washington requires landscapers performing irrigation or structural work to hold a Specialty Contractor License from the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (L&I). Pesticide applicators are licensed separately through the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA).
Applicants must register their business with the Secretary of State, obtain a contractor license bond, and provide proof of liability insurance. Pesticide applicator licenses require passing a state exam and completing continuing education. All licenses are renewed annually.
West Virginia
West Virginia requires landscapers who perform work valued at $2,500 or more to obtain a contractor license through the West Virginia Division of Labor. The license covers landscape construction, grading, and irrigation work.
Applicants must pass a trade exam, submit proof of general liability and workers’ compensation insurance, and pay the applicable licensing fees. Pesticide applicators are licensed through the West Virginia Department of Agriculture. Contractor licenses renew annually.
Wisconsin
Wisconsin does not require a general landscaping contractor license. However, pesticide applicators must be certified through the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP).
Applicants must complete training, pass an exam, and maintain insurance. Certifications must be renewed every five years with continuing education credits. Local business registration is required for most landscaping companies.
Wyoming
Wyoming does not issue a state landscaping contractor license, but pesticide applicators must be certified by the Wyoming Department of Agriculture. Landscape architects are licensed separately through the Wyoming Board of Architects and Landscape Architects.
To become a certified applicator, individuals must pass a written exam, maintain liability insurance, and renew certification every three years. Most landscaping businesses in Wyoming only need local business registration and insurance coverage.
Operations
