How to start a landscaping business in California (2026)
Everything a new landscaping business in California needs in the first months: registration, licenses, taxes, insurance and the yearly deadlines, with official links.
1. Register your business
Most owners form an LLC with the California Secretary of State. Once it's registered, find it here to claim a free website and see your exact dates.
2. Licenses
To apply fertilizer or weed control for paying customers you'll likely need a commercial applicator license from California Department of Pesticide Regulation.
Your city or county may also require a general business license or tax receipt.
3. Taxes
Get a free EIN from the IRS first. How. Register with California before your first taxable sale. Register in California
If you expect to owe $1,000 or more in federal tax for the year, you pay estimated tax four times a year.
California's yearly report
A Statement of Information is due within 90 days of forming, then every two years by the end of your formation month. California LLCs also pay an $800 yearly tax; the first payment is due by the 15th day of the 4th month after you form. The state fee is about $20.
Example: an LLC formed today would have its first one due Jan 2, 2027.
Your first-month checklist
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Get your EIN
Free from the IRS, online in about 10 minutes. Banks, clients and payroll all ask for it. You never need to pay a service for it. How to get it free
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Get general liability insurance
A thrown rock or a damaged sprinkler line is the most common claim in this trade. See options
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Insure your truck and trailer
Business use of a truck and trailer needs commercial auto coverage. See options
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Check the pesticide license rules
To apply fertilizer or weed control for paying customers you'll likely need a commercial applicator license from California Department of Pesticide Regulation.
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Open a business bank account
Keeps the company's money separate from yours, which is what protects your LLC. See options
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Finance your equipment
Spreading the cost of mowers and trimmers keeps cash free for payroll and fuel. See options
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Payroll and workers' comp before your first hire
Most states require workers' comp once you have employees, and payroll software handles the tax filings. See options
What insurance costs
| Coverage | Median per month |
|---|---|
| General liability | $51 |
| Business owner's policy (BOP) | $94 |
| Workers' compensation | $169 |
| Commercial auto | $204 |
Source: Insureon, Feb 2026. Your price depends on your work, location and history.
Other trades in California
Sources: state agency sites linked above; annual report rules compiled from state sites (checked Oct 2026). Rules change, so confirm with the agency before filing.