Landscaping business license guide for Washington

Yes.

If you're running a landscaping business in Washington, you need to register as a construction contractor with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I). This means getting a contractor's license, which is a key step to legally operate. State law also requires you to be bonded and insured to protect your customers. Once you're registered, you can bid on jobs, advertise, and perform construction work, ensuring your business is compliant and professional. You'll also need to register your business with the Department of Revenue.

If you're running a landscaping business in Washington, you'll deal primarily with two state agencies. For general contractor licensing?which includes most landscaping and horticultural services?you need to register with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I). They handle the necessary bonding and insurance requirements. However, if your work involves specialized design and planning, the licensing for Landscape Architects is handled by the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL). It's always best to check both to ensure you are fully compliant with all regulations before you start any new project.

Starting your landscaping business in Washington requires a couple of important steps. First, you must obtain a contractor's license directly from the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries. Since you?re providing services, you'll also need a general business license. You can apply for this through the Washington Department of Revenue, which is often the first step to ensuring you meet all state, county, and city endorsement requirements. They offer a Business Licensing Wizard to guide you through the process, especially if you plan to hire employees or your gross income is over $12,000 annually. Make sure your business structure is filed with the Washington Secretary of State if you are forming a corporation or LLC before applying for the license.

Starting your landscaping business in Washington involves specific fees depending on your estimated gross sales of plant material. For a Nursery Plant Seller/Installer (Retailer), if your gross sales are between $2,500 and $14,999, the fee is $176.64 per location. Sales over $15,000 raise the fee to $350.40 per location. Wholesalers have similar structures. Additionally, you will pay a small $5 Business License Application fee and may incur costs for registering a trade name. These state endorsements are required to legally sell or install plants.

Yes. When setting up your landscaping business in Washington, the essential first step is registering as a construction contractor with the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I). This is your official green light to operate, and it requires purchasing a surety bond ($15,000 for specialty contractors) and a general liability insurance policy. You?ll also need to register your business with the Department of Revenue. If you plan to apply any pesticides or herbicides, you will also need the appropriate licensing for that service.