Landscaping business license guide for Hawaii
Starting a landscaping business in Hawaii? This guide will walk you through whether a license is required, what the potential costs are, and the steps you need to take to obtain your license and start working legally.
Hawaii Landscaping License Overview
License Required?
Yes. In order to landscape in Hawaii, you must get a C-27 Landscaping Contractor license from the state.
Average Cost
The cost to obtain a C-27 landscaping license in Hawaii consists of a $50 application fee, a $150 test fee, a and $334-$663 license fee. Moreover, you will likely need to form a business organization, such as an LLC, which can cost $75 if you fill out all the paperwork yourself. Additionally, you will need to purchase liability insurance, pushing the total cost of starting a business up.
Does Hawaii require a landscaping business license?
Yes.
If you're planning to run a landscaping business in Hawaii, you must get a state license from the Contractors Licensing Board. This means applying for a C-27 Landscaping Contractor license, which falls under the specialty contractor (Classification C) category. To successfully get your license, you'll need to pass two exams administered by PSI Exams: the C-27 Landscaping Trade Exam and the Business and Law Exam. Make sure to factor in this crucial step to legally operate your business on the islands.
Who regulates landscaping licenses in Hawaii ?
For business owners wondering about regulation, the Hawaii Contractors Licensing Board is the main authority issuing the necessary C-27 Landscaping Contractor license you need to operate legally. You must secure this state license to work on landscaping projects in Hawaii. It’s important to stay in compliance with their rules. Note that professional Landscape Architects, who design landscapes, are regulated by the Board of Professional Engineers, Architects, Surveyors & Landscape Architects.
How to get a landscaping business license in Hawaii?
To legally run your landscaping or lawn care business in Hawaii, you must get a Contractor License, specifically the C-27 Landscaping Contractor license, issued by the state's Contractors Licensing Board. This is for specialty contractors. You will need to pass both the C-27 trade exam and a Business and Law exam. Don't forget that you also need to register your business with the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs. For detailed steps, forms, and fees, check the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs website.
What are the costs and fees for obtaining a landscaping license in Hawaii?
To start your landscaping business in Hawaii, you will need a C-27 Landscaping Contractor license. Expect an initial application fee of $50 and a testing fee of $150. Additionally, there is a $334-$663 license fee depending on the type of business organization and time of year. Once licensed, there is a $208 to $353 renewal cost again depending on the type of business.
Are there any additional landscaping permits or licenses to consider for Hawaii ?
Yes. If you are starting your landscaping business in Hawaii, you'll need to secure a specialty contractor license from the state's Contractors Licensing Board. The primary license you should be aiming for is the C-27 Landscaping Contractor license. This is the official credential that gives you the green light to handle most landscaping work. If you plan to include tree removal and trimming in your services, make sure you also get the specific C-27b Tree Trimming and Removal Contractor license. These steps are key to ensuring your business is fully compliant and ready to thrive on the islands.
