Landscaping contractors in
Denver, Colorado.
A public directory of licensed landscaping contractors serving greater Denver. Market data, licensing requirements, and cost benchmarks — updated continuously from public sources.
Common Job Costs
Licensing Requirements
Licensing Requirements
Colorado requires contractor license for projects over $2,000. Must obtain Commercial General Building Contractor license through Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA). Requirements: 4 years experience, pass PSI examination, $15,000 surety bond. License renewal every 3 years with continuing education requirements.
Permit Requirements
Denver requires permits for irrigation systems, retaining walls over 4 feet, major grading work, and any work in public right-of-way. Tree removal permits required for trees over 6 inches diameter on private property.
Inspection Schedule
Irrigation system rough-in inspection before backfill, final inspection after completion. Retaining wall inspections at footing stage and completion. Major grading requires inspection before final approval.
Insurance Minimums
General liability minimum $300,000, workers compensation required for employees, commercial auto coverage for business vehicles. Many clients require $1M liability coverage.
How to Get Licensed
Meet experience requirements
Document 4 years of verifiable construction/landscaping experience through employer letters, tax records, or project documentation
Complete application
Submit Commercial General Building Contractor license application through Colorado DORA website with required fees and documentation
Pass PSI examination
Schedule and pass the PSI contractor examination covering business law, safety regulations, and construction practices
Obtain surety bond
Secure $15,000 surety bond from approved bonding company and submit bond documentation to DORA
Submit insurance proof
Provide proof of required insurance coverage including general liability and workers compensation
Receive license
Upon approval, receive contractor license valid for 3 years with continuing education requirements for renewal
About This Market
Denver's landscaping market runs hot with 2464 licensed establishments statewide competing for work. High altitude, clay soil, and water restrictions drive specialized demand for xeriscaping, native plantings, and efficient irrigation. Projects range from basic lawn installation to complex commercial developments, with costs driven by soil conditions, water access, and material transport up elevation. The Front Range growth boom keeps residential and commercial demand steady. Getting licensed in Colorado means jumping through DORA hoops - 4 years experience, passing their exam, and posting a $15K bond for anything over $2,000. Denver adds permit layers for irrigation, retaining walls, and tree work. Work the April-October window hard because winter shuts down most outdoor projects. Clay soil means drainage is everything, water restrictions are real, and clients want low-maintenance designs that survive altitude and temperature swings. Know your native plants and xeriscape principles or you'll lose bids to contractors who do.
- Licensed establishmentsU.S. Census Bureau
- Licensing requirementsColorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA)
- Permit requirementsDenver Building Department
- Cost rangesLocal contractor estimates
- Insurance requirementsColorado contractor licensing regulations
Frequently Asked Questions
What license do I need for landscaping work in Denver?
Colorado requires a Commercial General Building Contractor license through DORA for projects over $2,000. This requires 4 years experience, passing the PSI exam, and a $15,000 surety bond according to Colorado DORA regulations.
Do I need permits for landscaping projects in Denver?
Yes, Denver requires permits for irrigation systems, retaining walls over 4 feet, major grading, and work in public right-of-way. Tree removal permits are required for trees over 6 inches diameter per Denver municipal code.
What's the typical cost for landscape installation in Denver?
Complete landscape installation ranges $5,000-$25,000 depending on scope. Basic sod installation costs $1,500-$4,500, while irrigation systems run $2,500-$8,000 based on local contractor estimates.
When is peak season for landscaping work in Denver?
Peak season runs April through October, with highest demand May-September. Winter weather severely limits outdoor landscaping work in the Denver metro area.
What insurance do landscaping contractors need in Colorado?
Colorado requires minimum $300,000 general liability insurance, workers compensation for employees, and commercial auto coverage. Most commercial clients require $1M liability coverage according to state contractor licensing requirements.
Landscaping contractors in Denver
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