Landscaping business license guide for Michigan
Starting a landscaping business in Michigan doesn't require a state-specific license, but you will need to meet certain local requirements and business registrations. This guide will walk you through the necessary steps to set up your business and understand potential costs.
Michigan Landscaping License Overview
License Required?
No
Average Cost
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Does Michigan require a landscaping business license?
No.
Running a general landscaping business in Michigan does not require a state-level business license. That's a bit of good news for starting entrepreneurs!
However, there's a crucial detail for business owners to remember: if your work involves applying pesticides, you must obtain a pesticide application certification. This involves passing both a core exam and a category exam through the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. Always check with your local city or county, as they might have specific local permits or licenses required to operate in their area, even if the state does not.
Who regulates landscaping licenses in Michigan ?
Great news for your landscaping business in Michigan! You generally won't need a specific state-level license just to operate as a landscaper. That said, if your services include applying pesticides?which is common?you must be certified.
This specific certification is regulated by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD). You'll need to successfully pass both a core exam and a category exam to comply. While the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) handles many professional licenses, they aren't the regulators for standard landscaping work. Focus on getting that pesticide certification squared away for full compliance.
How to get a landscaping business license in Michigan?
Great news for your landscaping business in Michigan! You typically do not need a specific state-level license just to offer general landscaping or lawn care services. This is different from being a Landscape Architect.
However, if you plan to apply pesticides, you absolutely must get certified through the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD). This involves passing core and category exams. For general business compliance and potential local permits, you can check with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). Always verify any local licensing requirements with the city or county where you operate.
What are the costs and fees for obtaining a landscaping license in Michigan?
Good news! Michigan typically does not require a state-level license just to offer general landscaping or lawn care services.
However, you will need to get certified if you plan on applying pesticides. This requires passing a core exam and a category exam. Separately, be sure to check with your local city or county offices, as they often require their own vendor or business license. For example, some cities charge an initial fee of around $100, plus a $25 fee for each vehicle used. Budgeting around $155 annually is a good estimate for these requirements.
Are there any additional landscaping permits or licenses to consider for Michigan ?
Yes. While the state of Michigan doesn't require a general landscaping license to operate your business, there are other important credentials you should absolutely consider. If you plan on using any pesticides, herbicides, or fungicides, you'll need to obtain a pesticide application certification from the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD). This involves passing core and category exams. Also, remember that local requirements can vary widely, so you should check with the city or township where you'll be working, as some areas may require a local business license or permit for lawn and landscaping services.
