Landscaping Contractors in Lakewood, Colorado
Licensed Establishments
2,464
U.S. Census Bureau
Peak Season
April through October, with heaviest demand May-August for installations and year-round for maintenance
Estimate
Avg. Response Time
24-72 hours for quotes, longer during peak spring season
Estimate
Common Job Costs
| Service | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Lawn Maintenance (monthly) | $150 – $400 |
| Landscape Design & Installation | $3,500 – $15,000 |
| Sprinkler System Installation | $2,500 – $8,000 |
| Tree Removal | $500 – $2,500 |
| Hardscape Installation (patio/walkway) | $4,000 – $12,000 |
| Sod Installation (per sq ft) | $1 – $3 |
Licensing Requirements
Licensing Requirements
Colorado does not require state licensing for general landscaping. However, commercial pesticide application requires Commercial Pesticide Applicator License through Colorado Department of Agriculture. Irrigation work may require contractor registration. No exam required for basic landscaping, but pesticide license requires written exam and continuing education.
Permit Requirements
Lakewood requires permits for irrigation systems connecting to water supply, electrical work for landscape lighting, and major grading projects. Tree removal permits required for trees over 6 inches diameter on public property or in protected areas.
Inspection Schedule
Irrigation system installations require inspection before backfill. Electrical components for lighting require inspection before cover. No routine inspections for basic landscaping work.
Insurance Minimums
General liability minimum $500,000 recommended, though not state-mandated. Workers compensation required if employing others. Commercial auto insurance required for business vehicles.
How to Get Licensed
- 1
Determine License Requirements
Assess what services you'll provide. Basic landscaping requires no state license. Pesticide application requires Commercial Pesticide Applicator License. Irrigation work may need contractor registration.
- 2
Apply for Pesticide License (if needed)
Complete application with Colorado Department of Agriculture. Pass written examination covering pesticide safety and application methods. Pay required fees.
- 3
Register Business Entity
Register your business with Colorado Secretary of State. Choose business structure (LLC, corporation, etc.) and obtain required tax identification numbers.
- 4
Obtain Required Insurance
Secure general liability insurance and workers compensation if employing others. Obtain commercial auto insurance for business vehicles.
- 5
Complete Local Registration
Register with Lakewood for business license if required. Familiarize yourself with local permit requirements for irrigation and tree work.
About This Market
Lakewood's landscaping market runs hot with 2464 licensed establishments statewide competing for work in this affluent Denver suburb. Water-wise xeriscaping dominates due to local water restrictions and HOA requirements. High-end residential projects drive the market - think $50K+ complete landscape overhauls mixing native plants with hardscape features. Costs get pushed up by strict water regulations, clay soil conditions requiring amendments, and homeowners wanting low-maintenance designs that still look premium. The established neighborhoods mean lots of renovation work, while new developments in the foothills create opportunities for large-scale installations. Competition is fierce with established players holding most commercial contracts. Colorado keeps it simple - no state license needed for basic landscaping work, but you'll need pesticide certification if you're doing chemical applications. Lakewood's water restrictions shape everything you do here, so know the current watering schedules and approved plant lists before you bid. Peak season runs April through October, but smart contractors lock in maintenance contracts for steady winter income. The clay soil and high altitude mean different techniques than lower elevations - factor in soil amendments and plant hardiness zones when pricing jobs.
Data Sources:
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a license to do landscaping work in Lakewood, CO?▾
What permits do I need for irrigation system installation in Lakewood?▾
What are typical landscaping costs in Lakewood?▾
When is peak season for landscaping work in Lakewood?▾
What insurance do I need as a landscaping contractor in Colorado?▾
Contractors in Lakewood
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