Landscaping Permit Requirements in Fort Worth, TX
Everything you need to know about permits and licenses for starting a landscaping in Fort Worth, Tarrant County, Texas.
Important Disclaimer
This information is for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Permit requirements, fees, and timelines may change. Always verify current requirements directly with your local government authority before making business decisions.
Last verified:
Estimated Total Cost
$100 – $600
Estimated Timeline
2-8 weeks depending on services offered
Fort Worth / Tarrant County Requirements
Tarrant County Assumed Name (DBA) Certificate
Sole proprietorships and partnerships operating under a trade name must file an Assumed Name Certificate with the Tarrant County Clerk. Unincorporated assumed name applications may be partially completed online, but applicants must appear in person to sign and pay. File at the downtown Tarrant County courthouse or a sub-courthouse location.
City of Fort Worth Development Services Permit
The City of Fort Worth requires landscape plans to be submitted with building permit applications for commercial development. Fort Worth's Development Services Department oversees landscaping requirements per city code Section 6.301. Use the CFW Permit Assist portal to determine specific permit needs for your project.
Fort Worth Certificate of Occupancy (if operating commercial location)
If your landscaping business operates out of a commercial space in Fort Worth, a Certificate of Occupancy is required. Required before legally operating a business from any commercial building.
Texas State Requirements
Texas Sales Tax Permit
Landscaping services (including lawn maintenance, tree trimming, and land clearing) are taxable services in Texas. You must register with the Texas Comptroller to collect and remit sales tax.
Texas TDA Commercial Pesticide Applicator License (if applicable)
Landscaping businesses that apply restricted-use or state-limited-use pesticides for hire must hold a Commercial Pesticide Applicator License from the Texas Department of Agriculture in the 3A (Lawn and Ornamental) category. Annual renewal required.
TCEQ Landscape Irrigator License (if installing irrigation)
Anyone who sells, designs, installs, maintains, alters, repairs, or inspects irrigation systems in Texas must be licensed by the TCEQ. Requires approved course completion and passing the TCEQ exam.
Texas Nursery/Floral Certificate (if selling or installing plants)
Landscaping contractors that purchase and install plants for customers must obtain a Class 1 Nursery/Floral Certificate from the Texas Department of Agriculture.
Federal Requirements
EIN (Employer Identification Number)
Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC or corporation. Apply free online through the IRS.
EPA Pesticide Worker Protection Standards (if applying pesticides)
Commercial landscaping businesses using EPA-registered pesticides must comply with FIFRA requirements and EPA Worker Protection Standards.
Official Sources
- Tarrant County Clerk — Assumed Names
- City of Fort Worth — Development Services Permits
- City of Fort Worth — Commercial Permitting
- Texas Comptroller — Sales Tax Permit
- Texas Department of Agriculture — Pesticide Commercial Applicator License
- TCEQ — Landscape Irrigator License
- Texas Department of Agriculture — Nursery/Floral Certificate