Landscaper License Cost Rankings
All states ranked by total initial licensing cost for landscapers. Find the cheapest and most expensive states to get licensed.
Landscaper licensing requirements and costs are among the most varied in the trades. Some states have no licensing requirement at all for basic landscaping, while others require full contractor credentials for any work involving hardscaping, irrigation, or grading. The fees shown cover states that do require licensure.
Cheapest State
Arizona
$145 total
Most Expensive
Hawaii
$225 total
National Average
$181
5 states require license
State-by-State Landscaper License Costs
| Rank | State | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arizona | $145 |
| 2 | Nevada | $160 |
| 3 | Oregon | $165 |
| 4 | California | $210 |
| 5 | Hawaii | $225 |
What Affects Landscaper License Costs?
Landscaping licensing often depends on the scope of work — basic lawn maintenance may be unregulated, while landscape construction, irrigation installation, and tree removal frequently require licenses. States with active HOA communities and large commercial property markets tend to have more structured licensing requirements for landscapers.
Key Takeaways
- The cheapest state is Arizona at $145, while the most expensive is Hawaii at $225.
- The national average is $181 and the median cost is $165.
- These costs are initial licensing fees only — budget separately for surety bonds, insurance, and continuing education.
Costs shown are estimated initial licensing costs only. Actual fees may vary. Renewal fees, insurance, and bond costs are not included. Data last verified January 2026.