Summary
Operating as a landscaping contractor in Marietta, Cobb County requires obtaining a business license from the city and maintaining appropriate insurance coverage. While Georgia doesn't mandate state licensing for basic landscaping services, contractors must obtain specialized licenses for pesticide application or landscape architecture services. Most routine landscaping work doesn't require permits, but irrigation installation, electrical work, and tree removal often do require permits from either Cobb County or the City of Marietta. The key to compliance is understanding which services require permits and ensuring proper insurance coverage, especially Workers' Compensation if you have employees. Commercial clients typically require proof of licensing and insurance before awarding contracts. Success in the Marietta market depends on maintaining professional credentials, following local permitting requirements, and building relationships with suppliers and clients in this competitive but growing suburban market.
License Requirements
Georgia does not require a state license for basic landscaping services. However, contractors performing landscape design services over $5,000 must be licensed as Landscape Architects through the Georgia State Board of Landscape Architects. Marietta requires a Business License for all commercial operations, obtained through the City of Marietta Business License Department. If applying pesticides or herbicides, contractors must obtain a Georgia Pesticide License through the Georgia Department of Agriculture. Tree removal or trimming may require an Arborist Certification. Business licenses must be renewed annually by December 31st.
Permit Requirements
Most basic landscaping work (planting, mulching, lawn care) does not require permits in Marietta. However, permits are required for: irrigation system installation (plumbing permit through Cobb County), electrical work for outdoor lighting (electrical permit), tree removal of protected species or trees over 6 inches diameter (tree removal permit from City of Marietta), and any work affecting drainage or grading (land disturbance permit). Permit applications are submitted to Cobb County Development Services or City of Marietta Building Department. Processing time is typically 3-10 business days, with fees ranging from $50-$300 depending on scope.
Insurance Requirements
Georgia requires Workers' Compensation insurance for businesses with 3+ employees, including part-time workers. General Liability insurance of at least $1 million is strongly recommended and often required by commercial clients. Professional Liability insurance is required for licensed Landscape Architects. Some municipalities and commercial clients may require contractors to be bonded. Auto insurance with commercial coverage is necessary if using vehicles for business purposes. Proof of insurance must be provided for permit applications and client contracts.
Typical Cost Ranges
Basic lawn maintenance: $30-80 per visit. Landscape design and installation: $3,000-15,000 for residential projects. Irrigation system installation: $2,500-8,000. Tree removal: $300-2,500 per tree depending on size. Hardscaping (patios, walkways): $15-30 per square foot. Commercial landscape maintenance: $200-1,000+ monthly depending on property size. Seasonal cleanup services: $200-800 per service. Plant installation and garden bed creation: $8-25 per square foot.
Compliance Checklist
- ✓Obtain Business License from City of Marietta Business License Department
- ✓Secure General Liability insurance with minimum $1 million coverage
- ✓Obtain Georgia Pesticide License if applying chemicals (Georgia Department of Agriculture)
- ✓Purchase Workers' Compensation insurance if employing 3+ workers
- ✓Register business with Georgia Secretary of State and obtain Federal EIN
- ✓Apply for required permits (irrigation, electrical, tree removal) before starting work
- ✓Verify property boundaries and utility locations before excavation
- ✓Maintain current insurance certificates and license documentation on job sites
READYDOCS
These are the documents Iris tracks for you.
Store them in one place. Get alerts before anything expires. Ask Iris anything from the job site.
$19/month — First month free. No credit card required.
No credit card. Cancel anytime.