The Board
ENES

Landscaping Contractors in Hilo, Hawaii

Licensed Establishments

366

U.S. Census Bureau

Peak Season

March through September, with highest demand April-June when rainfall decreases and property preparation for summer begins

Estimate

Avg. Response Time

3-7 business days for quotes, extended during peak season due to high demand and limited contractor pool

Estimate

Common Job Costs

ServiceCost Range
Lawn maintenance (monthly)$120 – $280
Landscape design and installation$2,500 – $8,500
Tree trimming and removal$350 – $1,200
Irrigation system installation$1,800 – $4,500
Hardscaping (patios, walkways)$3,000 – $12,000
Lava rock landscaping$800 – $2,500

Licensing Requirements

Licensing Requirements

Hawaii requires C-27 Landscaping Contractor license through DCCA Professional and Vocational Licensing. Must pass trade exam covering plant identification, irrigation, and Hawaiian environmental regulations. Four years experience or equivalent education required. License renewed biennially with 16 hours continuing education.

Permit Requirements

Building permits required for structures over $1000, electrical permits for irrigation systems, grading permits for earthwork exceeding 50 cubic yards. Special permits required for work near culturally significant areas or native plant habitats.

Inspection Schedule

Initial permit inspection within 48 hours of request, interim inspections for electrical and plumbing components, final inspection required before permit closure. County inspections typically scheduled within 2-3 business days.

Insurance Minimums

$100,000 general liability minimum required for licensing, $500,000 recommended for commercial work. Workers compensation required for any employees. Vehicle insurance mandatory for equipment transport.

How to Get Licensed

  1. 1

    Meet experience requirements

    Document four years of landscaping experience or complete equivalent education program covering horticulture, irrigation, and landscape construction

  2. 2

    Submit application

    File application with Hawaii DCCA Professional and Vocational Licensing including experience documentation, references, and application fee

  3. 3

    Pass trade examination

    Take and pass C-27 Landscaping Contractor exam covering plant identification, Hawaiian environmental regulations, irrigation systems, and business practices

  4. 4

    Obtain insurance

    Secure minimum $100,000 general liability insurance and provide proof of coverage to licensing board

  5. 5

    Pay licensing fees

    Submit all required fees including examination fee, initial license fee, and any applicable processing charges

  6. 6

    Maintain license

    Renew license biennially with 16 hours continuing education and maintain current insurance coverage

About This Market

Hilo's landscaping market is driven by year-round growing conditions, high rainfall, and unique volcanic soil requirements. With approximately 366 licensed establishments statewide, competition is moderate but work is steady due to rapid plant growth and frequent storm cleanup needs. Lava rock landscaping, native plant installation, and drainage solutions dominate higher-end projects, while routine maintenance provides consistent revenue streams. Costs run 15-25% above mainland rates due to shipping expenses for materials and equipment.

To work Hilo successfully, get your C-27 license early - the exam covers Hawaiian-specific plant knowledge and environmental regulations you won't find elsewhere. Master local drainage techniques and lava rock work, as these are constant issues. Build relationships with plant nurseries for native species sourcing. Schedule heavy work during drier months but maintain flexibility for emergency storm cleanup. Factor shipping costs into all bids and understand county permitting for cultural sensitivity - this isn't the mainland, and local protocols matter.

Data Sources:

Licensed establishments count: U.S. Census BureauLicensing requirements: Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Professional and Vocational LicensingPermit requirements: Hawaii County Building DepartmentCost ranges: Market analysis estimates based on local contractor surveysInsurance requirements: Hawaii DCCA Professional and Vocational Licensing

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for landscaping work in Hilo, Hawaii?▾
You need a C-27 Landscaping Contractor license from Hawaii DCCA Professional and Vocational Licensing. This requires passing a trade exam and demonstrating four years of experience or equivalent education.
How much does landscape maintenance cost in Hilo?▾
Monthly landscape maintenance ranges from $120-280 depending on property size and services. Costs are higher than mainland due to rapid plant growth from high rainfall and material shipping expenses.
When is peak landscaping season in Hilo?▾
Peak season runs March through September, with highest demand April-June when rainfall decreases. However, year-round growing conditions mean steady work availability with storm cleanup needs throughout the year.
Do I need permits for irrigation system installation in Hilo?▾
Yes, electrical permits are required for irrigation systems. Building permits may be needed for associated structures over $1000. Contact Hawaii County Building Department for specific requirements.
What insurance is required for landscaping contractors in Hawaii?▾
Minimum $100,000 general liability insurance is required for licensing. Workers compensation is mandatory for any employees, and vehicle insurance is required for equipment transport.

Contractors in Hilo

0 landscaping contractors in Hilo.

No contractors listed yet.

List your services

Are you a landscaping contractor in Hilo?

Get listed on The Board free. Manage your leads, jobs, and follow-ups with The Forge.

Get Listed Free