How to Start a Landscaping Business in 2025: Step by Step Guide

Publishing Date: June 7, 2025

Must-Know Insights

- Start small with a few landscaping services you already know how to do to build trust, control costs, and grow gradually.
- Create a basic business plan that outlines your services, target customers, startup costs, and income goals.
- Register your business and get insured to protect your assets, build credibility, and comply with local laws.
- Invest in essential tools only and look for ways to save, like renting or buying used equipment when starting out.
- Promote your business locally and online using a simple website, Google Business Profile, and word-of-mouth referrals.

If you’ve been thinking about how to start a landscaping business, now is a great time. The U.S. landscaping services industry brings in over $184 billion each year, and demand continues to grow. Homeowners and businesses alike are hiring help for lawn care, maintenance, and outdoor upgrades, giving new business owners a real chance to succeed.

This guide breaks down how to start a landscaping business step by step. You’ll learn how to pick your services, set up your operations, get insured, and attract paying customers, all with simple advice you can act on right away.

How to Start a Landscaping Business

Starting a landscaping business takes less upfront investment than many other industries, but long-term success depends on building the right foundation. In the sections below, you’ll get a practical roadmap, from setting up your business legally to finding your first customers. Follow these steps, stay consistent, and you’ll be on your way to building a profitable, trusted service.

Step 1: Choose the Services You Will Provide

If you’re just getting started, it’s important to know that not all landscaping businesses are the same. Some focus on basic lawn care, while others handle large commercial jobs or custom outdoor designs. What you choose to offer will directly impact your pricing, the tools you’ll need, and the kind of clients you’ll work with.

To make the right choice for you, start by thinking about what kind of work you enjoy, what you’re good at, and what’s in demand in your area. In the next section, you’ll see a breakdown of common services so you can pick the ones that fit your goals, skills, and budget.

Pro Tip: Focus on 1–2 services you already know how to deliver well.

Starting small builds trust, saves money, and helps you get real results fast.

You can always expand once you’ve got a few happy customers.

Lawn care & maintenance

If you want steady work and a simple way to get started, lawn care is a great first step. Services like mowing, edging, trimming, and basic cleanup are always in demand, especially during spring and summer. Most homeowners need this kind of work regularly, which means you can build a reliable customer base quickly without needing a lot of equipment upfront.

Hardscaping

If you like building things and don’t mind heavier work, hardscaping could be a strong option. This includes patios, walkways, and stone walls, anything that adds structure to an outdoor space. It usually pays more than basic lawn care, but it also takes more time, planning, and tools. It’s a good fit if you want fewer jobs with bigger payouts

Garden design & installation

This is a good path if you enjoy creativity and want to help clients bring their outdoor spaces to life. You’ll help plan and install plant layouts, mulch beds, flower borders, and decorative features. People often pay more for design-focused work, especially in areas where curb appeal matters.

Commercial landscaping

If you’re thinking long term and want consistent, larger jobs, commercial landscaping is worth considering. Businesses, apartment complexes, and schools need regular service and often sign seasonal or yearly contracts. These jobs may take more planning or a small crew, but they offer stability and room to grow.

Specialized services

Keep in mind that some of these services require specific training or licenses. For example, pesticide applicators must be licensed in all states due to health and environmental regulations. Before offering specialized services, make sure you’re legally allowed to do the work and have the right equipment.

Step 2: Create a Simple Business Plan

Before you dive in, it’s worth taking a step back and putting a plan together. You don’t need anything fancy, a few clear notes can go a long way. A simple business plan helps you stay on track, avoid overspending, and make decisions that actually fit your goals.

In this step, you’ll outline the services you’ll offer, who you want to serve, how much it will cost to get started, and what goals make sense in the first few months.

Choosing Between the Services You Can Provide

Now that you’ve seen the most common types of landscaping services, it’s time to choose the ones that make the most sense for you. You don’t need to offer everything right away. In fact, starting small can help you stay focused, avoid burnout, and build a solid reputation.

Think about a few key questions:

- What skills do you already have? Start with what you know how to do well.
- What equipment do you own or can afford? Some services require more investment up front.
- What does your area need most? Look around your neighborhood. Are people hiring for lawn care, hardscaping, or cleanups?
- Do you prefer quick jobs or big projects? Lawn care is faster and more frequent. Hardscaping takes more time but pays more per job.

Outline Your Services and Target Customers

Start your business plan by getting clear on what you’re offering. Will you stick to weekly lawn care? Add seasonal cleanups? Offer garden installs or patio builds? Write down the specific services you’ll provide, based on your skills, your tools, and what people in your area are looking for.

Once that’s in place, think about who your ideal customer is. Are you aiming to help busy homeowners? Local business owners? Property managers with multiple sites? The more specific you are, the easier it’ll be to attract the right clients and talk about your business in a way that gets attention.

Estimate Startup Costs and Set Goals

Now that you know what services you’ll offer and who you’re targeting, it’s time to figure out what it will take to get started. Estimating your startup costs helps you avoid surprises and stay in control of your spending.

Start by listing everything you’ll need, like:

- A lawn mower, trimmer, and blower
- Safety gear like gloves and goggles
- A truck, trailer, or just enough gas money to get around
- A small budget for marketing—flyers, a basic website, maybe some business cards
- Insurance and any license fees in your area

Even if you’re starting small, it helps to write down the total so you know what to expect.

Then set a few goals you can actually track. Ask yourself:

- How many clients do I want in my first month?
- What’s the minimum I need to earn to cover my costs?
- What’s one service I can promote to bring in consistent work?

Keep your goals simple and doable. You can always adjust as you go.

Plan for Growth and Profitability

Once you’ve covered the basics, it’s worth thinking a step ahead. You don’t need a five-year plan, but you should have a general idea of how you want your business to grow, and how it will make money over time.

Start by thinking about what growth looks like for you. Maybe you want to stay small and reliable, working solo with a full schedule. Or maybe your goal is to build a crew, take on bigger jobs, and expand into new areas. Either option works, it just depends on what fits your lifestyle and goals.

Next, think about the services that can bring in steady income. Recurring work like weekly lawn care or seasonal cleanups can keep cash flow stable. Add-on services like mulching, trimming, or planting can increase your earnings without adding a lot of extra travel or time.

Step 3: Create a Business Plan

Before you start booking jobs or accepting payments, take a little time to make your business official. It’s one of those steps that’s easy to put off, but getting it done early will save you headaches later and help you look more professional from day one.

Start by choosing a legal structure. Most small landscaping businesses go with one of these:

- Sole proprietorship: Simple and affordable. Great if you’re just testing the waters. Just know that you’ll be personally responsible for any debts or legal issues.
- LLC (Limited Liability Company): Costs a little more to set up, but it protects your personal assets and gives you a more professional image. It’s a smart move if you’re serious about growing.

Once you’ve picked a structure, register your business name. Choose something that’s easy to remember, reflects what you do, and isn’t already taken in your state. You can check availability and register online through your state’s website.

You’ll also want to apply for an EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS, it’s free and only takes a few minutes. You’ll need it to open a business bank account, file taxes, or hire help later.

Depending on where you live, you may also need a local business license or permit. Check your city or county website to find out what’s required in your area.

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Step 4: Get Business Insurance

Getting business insurance is one of the smartest ways to protect yourself from unexpected problems. Imagine this: you’re trimming a hedge and accidentally knock a rock through a customer’s window. Without insurance, that’s coming out of your pocket.

The right coverage keeps situations like that from turning into major setbacks. Here are the main types of insurance you’ll want to consider:

- General Liability Insurance: Covers property damage or injuries that happen while you’re working. This is a must-have for almost every landscaping business.
  Equipment Insurance: Protects your tools and machines if they’re stolen, damaged, or lost. Helpful if your business relies on expensive gear.
- Commercial Auto Insurance: Covers your truck, trailer, or any vehicle used for business. Standard auto policies usually don’t cover work use.
- Workers’ Compensation Insurance: Required in most states if you hire employees. It covers medical bills and lost wages if someone gets hurt on the job.

Step 5: Set Up Your Business Bank Account

After you register your business, one of the smartest things you can do is open a separate business bank account. It’s a quick step, but it helps you stay organized and in control from day one.

Even if you’re starting small, it helps to write down the total so you know what to expect. It makes it easier to track what you’re earning, manage expenses, and see where your money is actually going.

With a business account, you can:

- Accept payments under your business name
- Keep better records for taxes
- Avoid mixing personal and business spending
- Build business credit over time
- Look more professional to customers and vendors

Most banks offer low-fee business checking accounts, and many let you open one online. All you need is your business name, registration info, and an EIN.

Step 6: Buy the Right Equipment

Now’s a good time to revisit your equipment list from your business plan. You don’t need top-of-the-line gear to get started, but you do need reliable tools that match the services you plan to offer.

If you want to save some money, consider starting with:

- Buying used equipment – Many landscapers sell lightly used tools when upgrading.
- Leasing or renting – For big jobs or specialty tools, renting can be more affordable than buying right away.
- Starting with hand tools – For garden installs or basic cleanups, simple tools like rakes, pruners, and shovels can go a long way without a huge cost.

Pro Tip: You don’t need to own every tool to take on hardscaping jobs

Rent compactors, saws, and trenchers from places like Home Depot, Lowe’s, or Sunbelt Rentals.

Weekend rates are cheaper—and you only pay when you’re working.

Step 7: Create a Website & Set Up a Google My Business Profile

Now that you’ve got your services, plan, and equipment in place, it’s time to help people find you. Most customers start their search for a landscaper online, even if they’re looking for someone just down the street. Having a website and a Google Business Profile makes it easier for them to choose you.

Start with a simple website. You don’t need anything complex. One or two pages is enough to show that you’re legit and give people a way to contact you. Make sure your site includes:

- A clear list of services
- Your name, phone number, and email
- Your service area
- Photos of your work (even from practice jobs or friends’ yards)
- A short “About” section to build trust

Next, set up a Google Business Profile. It’s free and helps you show up in local searches and Google Maps when people look for services like “lawn care near me.” To set it up, you’ll need your business name, contact info, service area, and a few photos.

Pro Tip: Photos matter more than you think.

Always take before-and-after shots, they’re perfect for social media and your website.

They build trust, show your skills, and help you book the next job.

Step 8: Market Your Landscaping Business

Once your business is set up and ready to go, the next step is getting your name out there. You don’t need a big marketing budget to start getting customers, you just need to be visible, reliable, and easy to reach. Focus on simple, proven tactics that get attention in your local area.

Local Marketing Tactics That Work

Start close to home. The people in your neighborhood, nearby streets, and local businesses are your best first customers. Try these easy, low-cost ideas:

- Print flyers or door hangers and leave them in areas where you want work. Include your phone number, services, and a clear call to action.
- Use your vehicle as a rolling ad. Add magnets or decals with your business name and contact info.
- Put up yard signs after each job (with permission). A clean yard with your sign is great free advertising.
- List your business on local directories like Yelp, Nextdoor, and Angi.

Using Social Media to Build Awareness

You don’t need to go viral—just be consistent. Create a business page on Facebook and Instagram, and post a few times a week. Share:

- Before-and-after photos of your work
- Quick tips on yard care or landscaping ideas
- Updates about your availability or seasonal specials

Encourage happy customers to tag you or leave reviews. People love to hire businesses that feel real and local, and social media helps you build that trust.

Build Partnerships and Get Referrals

Some of your best leads will come from people you already know—or people who work with your ideal customers. Reach out to:

- Realtors who need curb appeal fast
- Property managers looking for reliable maintenance
- Hardware stores or garden centers that can refer customers your way
- Friends and neighbors who can spread the word

Offer a simple referral discount or thank-you gift. People are more likely to recommend you when they feel appreciated.

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Build a Business That Works for You

Starting a landscaping business is your chance to build something of your own—on your terms. Whether you’re picking up weekend jobs or working toward a full-time operation, the steps in this guide are here to help you get started without the guesswork.

Focus on what you already know how to do. Keep your costs manageable. And above all, do great work for the customers you serve. You don’t need to have everything perfect from day one. What matters most is showing up, doing the job right, and earning a solid reputation one yard at a time.

The demand is there. The tools are within reach. And your first job could be just one conversation away.

Start small. Stay consistent. And remember, you don’t need to be the biggest landscaping business in town to become the most dependable one.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to start a landscaping business?

Startup costs can range from $3,000 to $15,000, depending on the services you plan to offer. If you’re starting small with basic lawn care, you can keep costs low by using essential tools like a mower, trimmer, and blower. Bigger services like hardscaping or commercial jobs may require more expensive equipment and a work vehicle.

Do I need a license to start a landscaping business?

Most areas require a basic business license. Some states or counties may also require specific licenses, especially if you’re applying pesticides, doing irrigation work, or taking on large construction-related projects. Always check your local and state regulations to stay compliant.

What equipment do I need to start landscaping?

It depends on your services, but here are the basics for lawn care:

Lawn mower
String trimmer
Leaf blower
Safety gear (gloves, goggles, ear protection)

Gas cans and hand tools

If you’re offering hardscaping, you may need shovels, wheelbarrows, compactors, and possibly a trailer to haul materials.

Can I run a landscaping business by myself?

Yes. Many landscapers start as a one-person operation. It’s a great way to keep costs low while building experience and a client base. As demand grows, you can bring on part-time help or expand into larger jobs at your own pace.

How do I find clients for my landscaping business?

Start close to home. Flyers, door hangers, and local social media groups can help you land your first few jobs. Yard signs, referrals, and word-of-mouth are powerful tools. You can also list your business on platforms like Yelp, Nextdoor, or Angi to reach more potential customers.

What should I charge for landscaping services?

Pricing depends on your location, the type of service, and how long the job takes. Basic lawn care typically ranges from $30–$80 per visit. More complex work like mulching, planting, or hardscaping can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Always consider your time, materials, and travel when setting rates.

How profitable is a landscaping business?

Landscaping can be very profitable if you manage your time and expenses well. Many small operators earn between 10% and 30% profit after costs. Offering recurring services, upselling add-ons, and managing jobs efficiently can help you increase your margins over time.

Edgardo Ocampo

Edgardo is a digital marketing strategist with over 15 years of experience in SEO, paid advertising, and content writing. He helps entrepreneurs grow service-based businesses through smart, practical marketing strategies that get results.