Iowa is a beautiful place to launch your landscaping business if you’ve ever wanted to turn lawns into leafy havens. However, it’s crucial to understand the legal requirements of the situation before you get your tools ready. Let’s go over the necessary certifications and licenses you will need to run a landscaping business in Iowa.
Licensing Requirements for Landscaping Business in Iowa
Starting your landscaping business in Iowa? Then you’ll have to check off a few boxes. To ensure the safe, responsible, and professional functioning of your business, you have to stick to certain legal requirements.
a. Landscape Companies in Iowa
i. License for Landscape Contractors
Iowa does not, in contrast to several other states, have a general “Landscape Contractor License.” However, you might need certain permits according to the services you plan to provide. You’ll need a Commercial Applicator License If you’re applying pesticides as part of your business.
You’ll need the 3T (turf Pest) category, the 3O (Ornamental pest) or the 3OT (Ornamental & Turf Pest) category, and you’ll need to pass an exam to be licensed.
ii. Project Size-Based License Levels
It’s a good idea to level your services by your capabilities, even if Iowa does not specifically classify landscaping licenses by square footage.
To help you arrange your tasks, below is an example:
- Small Projects (1 to 5,000 sq. ft.) are ideal fit for lawn care, garden maintenance, and basic landscaping.
- Medium Projects (5,001 to 15,000 sq. ft.) involve more intensive work such as irrigation installation and patio laying.
- Large Projects (15,000+ sq. ft.) are ideal for comprehensive landscape architecture or commercial contracts.
iii. Subcontractors
If you hire subcontractors, make sure they are properly trained & certified for any specialized work (like pesticide spraying). They are applicable to operate under your license, and you’re responsible for their actions.
Find more information about contractor licensing and forms at Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (DIAL).
b. Pest Control Licensing
If your landscaping work includes pest control (like spraying for weeds, insects, or plant disease), you’ll need a Commercial Applicator License from the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS).
i. Requirements for Pest Control Licensing
- You’ll have to pass a Core Exam and a Category Exam (Category 3OT for ornamental and turf pest control is common in landscaping).
- Attend Pesticide Safety Training – You may also have to attend annual safety meetings or continuing education.
Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship
c. Nursery Dealer Licensing
Selling plants, trees, or shrubs? If yes then, you’ll need a Nursery Dealer License (for resale) or a Nurseryman License (for growers).
i. Nursery Dealer License
Iowa Department of Agriculture & Land Stewardship provides the certificate for nursery dealership in Iowa. The license ensures that the plants you sell are free from harmful pests and diseases.
Application for Iowa Nursery Dealer Certificate.
ii. Nurseryman License
This applies if you’re growing your nursery stock and selling it directly. While not all landscapers need this, it’s essential if you want to establish your plant nursery.
These licenses help the state track and regulate plant health, ensuring you’re not distributing infested or diseased stock.
Other Business Requirements
Aside from licenses, you’ll need to meet some financial and legal requirements to officially run your business such as the right insurance to safeguard your business against common risks and liabilities.
i. Surety Bond
In some cases (especially if you’re bidding for public projects), a Surety Bond to ensure project completion.
Typical bond amount: $1,000 (may vary depending on the project size or city requirements).
ii. Insurance
You’ll want to have proper insurance to protect both your team and your clients.
Public Liability Insurance
- $100,000 coverage for bodily injury per occurrence
- $50,000 for property damage per occurrence
- $5,000 for medical payment coverage
These figures can vary, but they serve as a solid base to operate safely and professionally.
iii. Business Registration
You must register your business with the State and secure a business license from your local city or government. All Iowa businesses must be registered under the Iowa Secretary of State’s Office. You can also register online easily in just a few steps.
You can visit the official website of Iowa Secretary of State for getting more information and officially registering your business in Iowa.
Important Links You Should Know
Iowa Workforce Development provides one-to-one support to deal with any workforce challenge.
Landscaping Associations in Iowa
Joining a local landscaping association can be proven beneficial, from networking to certifications.
Iowa Nursery & Landscape Association (INLA) is one such body.
They offer:
- Workshops and seminars.
- Connection opportunities.
- Certification courses.
- Industry updates and lobbying efforts
Iowa Nursery & Landscape Association
Notes for Starting Your Landscaping Business in Iowa
- Ensure that you have both printed and digital copies of all your insurance and license paperwork.
- If you are just starting in the market, start with smaller, more manageable jobs.
- Before accepting big projects, make investments in professional equipment, safety gear, and insurance.
- Know the zoning regulations in your area before beginning any hardscaping or building projects, such as patios or fences.
