Landscaping business license guide for Georgia

No.

Georgia does not require a general statewide business license for landscaping companies, but you must obtain a business license from the municipality where your business is based. Furthermore, you will need specific state licenses if you plan to handle and distribute plants (Nursery Dealer’s License from the Georgia Department of Agriculture) or apply pesticides (Commercial Applicator License). Remember, E-Verify compliance is also mandatory for receiving any business or professional license in Georgia. Be sure to check with your city or county government for all local requirements!

It can be tricky figuring out who regulates landscaping licenses in Georgia because oversight is spread across a few different entities. At the local level, you'll need a business license from the municipality where your company is based, and potentially an occupational tax certificate. If your business deals with plant material, the Georgia Department of Agriculture steps in, requiring a Nursery Dealer's License. Essentially, it’s a partnership between your local government and the state Department of Agriculture that keeps things regulated.

To legally operate your landscaping business in Georgia, you'll first need a general business license from the municipality where your company is based. Beyond that, if your services include distributing or handling plant materials, you must obtain a Nursery Dealer's License from the Georgia Department of Agriculture. Also, if you plan to use general or restricted-use pesticides, you'll need to pass an exam and secure a commercial applicator license through the Department of Agriculture. Remember, E-Verify compliance is often required for these licenses. Consult the Georgia Department of Agriculture and your local city/county government for exact details and applications.

For general landscaping and lawn care in Georgia, a state license for all services is usually not required. However, you will need a local business license from your city or county.

If you handle and distribute plants, you must get a Nursery Dealer's License from the Georgia Department of Agriculture, which costs $75 annually for landscapers. If you plan to apply pesticides (general or restricted use), you need a Commercial Applicator License, which requires passing an exam. You must also comply with E-Verify requirements to obtain these licenses.

Yes. Beyond your basic business registration in Georgia, you should absolutely consider a few key licenses to stay fully compliant. If your business involves handling and distributing plants, you will need a Nursery Dealer's License from the Georgia Department of Agriculture. Also, if you plan on spraying general-use or restricted-use pesticides, you must secure a Commercial Applicator License after passing the required exam. Don't forget that your local city or county business license often requires an E-Verify affidavit too!