Landscaping contractors in
Nashville, Tennessee.
A public directory of landscaping contractor businesses serving greater Nashville. Market data, licensing requirements, and cost benchmarks — updated continuously from public sources.
Landscaping jobs in Nashville
0 open jobs in Nashville.
The controlled job pilot is not open yet.
Common Job Costs
Licensing Requirements
Licensing Requirements
Tennessee requires Landscape Contractor License through Department of Agriculture. Must pass written exam covering plant identification, pesticide safety, business practices. Requires 2 years experience or horticulture degree. $100 application fee, $50 annual renewal. Separate pesticide applicator license required for chemical applications.
Permit Requirements
Nashville Metro requires permits for major grading, retaining walls over 4 feet, electrical work for lighting. Tree removal permits required for trees over 8-inch diameter on private property. Stormwater permits for projects disturbing over 1 acre.
Inspection Schedule
Electrical components inspected before burial, retaining walls inspected during construction and upon completion, final inspection for permitted work within 10 business days of completion
Insurance Minimums
General liability minimum $300,000, workers compensation required for employees, commercial auto insurance for business vehicles. Many clients require $1 million liability coverage.
Compliance research unavailable
Source status: unavailable · 7/12/2026
Detailed instructions are withheld because the source is not available for verification.
Local market snapshot
Source: DoorBase, aggregated public ZIP-level data. Updated 8/17/2026.
How to Get Licensed
Meet experience requirements
Complete 2 years documented landscaping experience OR obtain degree in horticulture, landscape architecture, or related field from accredited institution
Submit application
File Landscape Contractor License application with Tennessee Department of Agriculture including $100 fee, experience documentation, and business information
Pass written examination
Take and pass state exam covering plant identification, landscape practices, pesticide safety, and business regulations. Exam scheduled after application approval
Obtain insurance
Secure required general liability and workers compensation insurance before license activation
Get pesticide license if needed
Apply for separate Commercial Pesticide Applicator License if performing chemical applications, requires additional exam and continuing education
About This Market
Nashville's landscaping market runs hot with new construction and renovation driving steady demand. Competition is fierce among 1901 licensed establishments statewide, with pricing pressure from unlicensed operators. Clay soil, humidity, and rolling terrain create specific challenges that drive up installation costs. Wealthy neighborhoods like Belle Meade and Green Hills pay premium rates, while suburban growth areas offer volume opportunities. The landscaping market stays busy year-round with maintenance contracts providing steady revenue between installation seasons. To work Nashville, you need Tennessee's Landscape Contractor License plus pesticide certification if you're spraying anything. The state takes licensing seriously - no shortcuts here. Spring season gets crazy busy, so line up crews early and expect material delays. Clay soil means drainage work on most jobs, and Metro's tree ordinances will bite you if you don't pull permits. Focus on maintenance contracts to smooth out seasonal cash flow, and price jobs assuming you'll hit rock or buried utilities because you probably will.
- Licensed establishments countUS Census Bureau County Business Patterns
- Licensing requirementsTennessee Department of Agriculture
- Permit requirementsNashville Metro Development and Housing Agency
- Cost rangesLocal market estimates based on contractor surveys
- Insurance requirementsTennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a license to do landscaping work in Nashville?
Yes, Tennessee requires a Landscape Contractor License through the Department of Agriculture for most commercial landscaping work. This includes a written exam and proof of experience or education.
What permits do I need for landscape installation in Nashville?
Nashville Metro requires permits for major grading, retaining walls over 4 feet, electrical installations, and tree removal over 8-inch diameter. Contact Metro Development and Housing Agency for specific project requirements.
When is peak season for landscaping work in Nashville?
Peak installation season runs March through October, with heaviest demand April through June. Maintenance work continues year-round with reduced winter activity.
What insurance do I need as a landscaping contractor in Tennessee?
Tennessee requires general liability insurance with typical minimums of $300,000, workers compensation for employees, and commercial auto coverage. Many clients require $1 million liability limits.
How much does landscape installation cost in Nashville?
Complete landscape installation ranges from $3,000 to $15,000 depending on size and complexity. Monthly maintenance typically costs $150-400. Hardscaping projects range $2,000-12,000 based on materials and scope.
Landscaping contractors in Nashville
No contractors listed yet.
Run your landscaping business on The Forge.
Apply to be listed on The Board for free. Manage leads, quotes, jobs, and follow-ups in one place, built for independent operators and growing crews.