Landscaping Business Permit Requirements in Seattle, WA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a landscaping business in Seattle, King County, Washington.

$400 -- $900 2–5 weeks to complete registrations and licensing 6 requirements

Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .

Seattle / King County Requirements

2 requirements
1

Seattle Business License Tax Certificate

Required for all businesses with operations or revenue in Seattle. Issued by City of Seattle Finance and Administrative Services. Must be renewed annually and kept on file.

$110/year1–2 weeks
Official government source
2

Seattle Building/Grading Permit

Required for landscaping projects involving grading, tree removal, or structural elements (retaining walls, irrigation systems tied to plumbing). Issued by the Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections (SDCI).

Varies by project scope ($100–$1,000+)1–6 weeks depending on scope
Official government source

Washington State Requirements

3 requirements
1

Washington State Business License

Required for all businesses operating in Washington. Issued by the Department of Revenue. Landscaping businesses must register for the state B&O tax under the service classification.

$19/year1–2 weeks
Official government source
2

Washington Contractor Registration

Required for any landscaping business that does construction work (hardscaping, irrigation installation, grading, retaining walls). Issued by L&I — Washington State Department of Labor & Industries. Requires a surety bond and liability insurance.

$230–$290/year + bond ($6,000 bond for general contractor)1–3 weeks
Official government source
3

WA Dept of Agriculture Pesticide Applicator License

Required if your landscaping business applies any pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers on customer property. Issued by the Washington State Department of Agriculture. Must pass a written exam for the applicable category.

$55–$135/year depending on category2–4 weeks (exam scheduling)
Official government source

Federal Requirements

1 requirement
1

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS, obtained instantly online.

FreeImmediate (online application)
Official government source

Official Sources

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