Landscaping contractors in Jacksonville, Florida.

Operating as a licensed landscaping contractor in Jacksonville requires both state and local compliance. At the state level, you'll need a Certified Landscape Contractor license from the Florida DBPR, which involves demonstrating 4 years of experience, passing comprehensive exams, and maintaining continuing education. Locally, you must obtain an occupational license from Jacksonville and secure various permits depending on your specific services - tree removal, irrigation installation, and hardscape work all have different permitting requirements through the city's Planning and Development Department. Insurance requirements include general liability coverage of at least $300,000 (though $1 million is recommended for competitive bidding) and workers' compensation if you have employees. The permit process is generally straightforward but requires advance planning, as different types of work need different approvals and fees range from $25 for tree permits to several hundred dollars for building permits on larger hardscape projects.