Landscaping contractors in
Long Beach, California.
A public directory of licensed landscaping contractors serving greater Long Beach. Market data, licensing requirements, and cost benchmarks — updated continuously from public sources.
Common Job Costs
Licensing Requirements
Licensing Requirements
California requires C-27 Landscaping Contractor License for projects over $500. Must pass Law & Business exam plus C-27 trade exam. Requires 4 years experience or equivalent education. License renewal every 2 years with continuing education requirements.
Permit Requirements
Long Beach requires permits for irrigation systems, retaining walls over 4 feet, tree removal of protected species, and major grading work. Street tree work requires separate city approval.
Inspection Schedule
Irrigation installations require rough and final inspections. Electrical work for landscape lighting requires separate electrical permits and inspections. Retaining wall inspections at footing and completion.
Insurance Minimums
California requires minimum $1M general liability insurance for licensed contractors. Workers' compensation required if employing others. Long Beach may require additional bonding for certain municipal projects.
How to Get Licensed
Meet Experience Requirements
Document 4 years of landscaping experience through employment records, or complete approved education/training programs that count toward experience requirements.
Submit License Application
File application with California State License Board (CSLB) including experience verification, fingerprints, and application fees. Allow 4-6 weeks for processing.
Pass Law & Business Exam
Schedule and pass the California Law & Business exam covering construction law, contracts, safety regulations, and business practices. 72% passing score required.
Pass C-27 Trade Exam
Schedule and pass the C-27 Landscaping Contractor trade exam covering plant materials, irrigation, hardscape, pest management, and landscape construction methods.
Obtain Insurance and Bond
Secure required general liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage. Submit proof of insurance to CSLB to activate license.
Maintain License
Renew license every 2 years, complete continuing education requirements, maintain current insurance, and stay current with CSLB fee payments.
About This Market
Long Beach landscaping runs hot year-round with steady residential demand and commercial maintenance contracts driving the market. You're looking at drought-resistant designs, coastal salt tolerance, and water-wise installations due to California regulations. Competition is fierce with 9139 licensed establishments statewide, but steady population growth and property values keep quality contractors busy. Costs get driven up by water restrictions, specialized plant requirements, and irrigation compliance issues. Getting your C-27 license is non-negotiable for any real money in this trade - the state doesn't mess around with unlicensed work over $500. Long Beach has specific rules about tree removal and irrigation permits that'll bite you if you don't know them. Spring season books up fast, so smart contractors line up winter work and maintenance contracts to smooth out cash flow. The coastal location means dealing with salt air and specific plant zones, so know your horticulture or partner with someone who does.
- Median hourly wageBureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment Statistics
- Licensed establishments countU.S. Census Bureau Economic Census
- Licensing requirementsCalifornia State License Board (CSLB)
- Permit requirementsLong Beach Development Services Department
- Insurance requirementsCalifornia State License Board regulations
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a license to do landscaping work in Long Beach, CA?
Yes, California requires a C-27 Landscaping Contractor License for any landscaping project over $500. This includes passing both law/business and trade-specific exams, plus demonstrating 4 years of experience. Source: California State License Board (CSLB).
What permits are required for irrigation installation in Long Beach?
Long Beach requires permits for all new irrigation system installations and major modifications. You'll need rough and final inspections. Contact Long Beach Development Services at minimum 48 hours before inspection. Source: Long Beach Municipal Code.
How much do landscaping contractors make in California?
According to Bureau of Labor Statistics data, landscaping workers in California earn a median wage of $22.17 per hour or $46,114 annually. Licensed contractors typically earn significantly more. Source: BLS Occupational Employment Statistics.
When is the best time to schedule landscaping work in Long Beach?
Peak season runs March through October, with highest demand April-June for installations. Schedule major projects outside peak season for better pricing and availability. Year-round maintenance is standard due to climate.
What insurance do landscaping contractors need in Long Beach?
California requires minimum $1M general liability insurance for licensed contractors. Workers' compensation is mandatory if you have employees. Some Long Beach municipal projects require additional bonding. Source: CSLB licensing requirements.
Landscaping contractors in Long Beach
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