Landscaping contractors in
Kihei, Hawaii.
A public directory of licensed landscaping contractors serving greater Kihei. Market data, licensing requirements, and cost benchmarks — updated continuously from public sources.
Common Job Costs
Licensing Requirements
Licensing Requirements
Hawaii requires a C-27 Landscaping Contractor License for projects over $1,000. Must pass written exam covering business law, project management, and technical knowledge. Requires 4 years experience or equivalent education. License renewal every 2 years with continuing education requirements.
Permit Requirements
Building permits required for hardscaping, retaining walls over 4 feet, and electrical work for irrigation/lighting. County of Maui building department oversees permitting. Special permits may be required for work near coastlines or in flood zones.
Inspection Schedule
Initial permit inspection before work begins, rough inspection for underground utilities/irrigation, and final inspection upon completion. Electrical work requires separate inspection by certified electrical inspector.
Insurance Minimums
General liability minimum $300,000, workers compensation if employees present. Bonding required for licenses - $12,000 for contractors under $600,000 annual volume.
How to Get Licensed
Meet Experience Requirements
Document 4 years of landscaping experience or complete approved education program. Submit detailed work history with employer verification.
Submit License Application
Complete application through Hawaii DCCA Professional and Vocational Licensing Division. Include experience documentation, financial statements, and $185 application fee.
Obtain Surety Bond
Secure $12,000 surety bond from approved surety company. Bond amount may be higher based on annual contract volume.
Pass Written Examination
Schedule and pass C-27 Landscaping Contractor exam covering business law, safety, and technical knowledge. $75 exam fee required.
Maintain License
Renew license every 2 years with continuing education requirements. Submit renewal application and fees 60 days before expiration.
About This Market
Kihei's landscaping market runs hot year-round, driven by resort properties, vacation rentals, and high-end residential developments. The volcanic soil and tropical climate create unique challenges - you're dealing with lava rock, salt air corrosion, and intense UV that destroys materials fast. Water restrictions and drought-resistant requirements push costs up, especially for irrigation work. Competition is fierce among the established players, but there's steady work if you can handle the technical demands and material logistics of island life. Getting licensed in Hawaii means jumping through hoops - the C-27 exam isn't a joke and the experience requirements weed out weekend warriors. Factor in 15-20% higher material costs due to shipping, and plan your jobs around the October-April peak when resorts and homeowners spend money. The county's building department moves slow, so pad your timeline for permits. Salt air eats equipment, so budget for replacement costs. Most successful contractors here specialize - either go full resort commercial or focus on high-end residential. The middle market gets squeezed by handymen and established crews.
- Number of licensed establishmentsUS Census Bureau Economic Census
- Licensing requirements and feesHawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs
- Insurance and bonding requirementsHawaii Contractors License Board
- Cost estimatesLocal contractor surveys and market analysis
- Permit requirementsMaui County Building Department
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to get a landscaping contractor license in Hawaii?
License application fee is $185 plus $12,000 surety bond for contractors under $600,000 annual volume. Exam fee is $75. Total initial costs around $350-500 excluding bond. Source: Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs.
Do I need a permit for installing irrigation systems in Kihei?
Yes, irrigation systems require building permits through Maui County. Electrical connections for controllers and pumps need separate electrical permits. Expect 2-4 week approval times.
What's the average cost of landscape maintenance in Kihei?
Monthly maintenance ranges $150-300 for residential properties, $500-2000+ for commercial properties. Costs vary based on property size, plant types, and irrigation complexity. Estimate based on local contractor surveys.
How many landscaping contractors operate in Hawaii?
Approximately 366 licensed landscaping establishments operate statewide according to Census data. Maui County represents roughly 15-20% of this market.
What insurance do landscaping contractors need in Hawaii?
Minimum $300,000 general liability insurance required. Workers compensation mandatory if you have employees. Surety bond of $12,000 required for licensing. Source: Hawaii Contractors License Board.
Landscaping contractors in Kihei
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