Landscapers in Santa Cruz, CA
Compare local landscapers, check their licenses, see what jobs cost in Santa Cruz, and get free quotes.
- Free quotes, no obligation
- Typical cost $180–$1,050 for most yard jobs
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Outdoor & Yard Work in Santa Cruz: what to know
Santa Cruz is in Santa Cruz County, covering ZIP codes 95060 and 95064. Pros listed here also cover nearby Live Oak, Capitola, Soquel, Felton, Scotts Valley, Bonny Doon, Ben Lomond and Aptos. Most outdoor & yard work jobs here cost $180–$1,050 for most yard jobs.
Hiring a licensed landscaper in California
Look for a C-27 Landscaping license from the Contractors State License Board (CSLB).
- Any job worth $1,000 or more in labor and materials must be done by a CSLB-licensed contractor.
- Licensed contractors must carry a $25,000 contractor bond, and workers' compensation if they have employees.
- For home improvement contracts, the down payment can't be more than 10% of the price or $1,000, whichever is less.
- Water heaters must be braced or strapped against earthquakes under state law.
Check a license on the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) site
How much does a landscaper cost in Santa Cruz?
Most outdoor & yard work jobs in Santa Cruz, CA cost $180–$1,050 for most yard jobs, with hourly rates around $45–$110.
| Job | Low | Typical | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mow a lawn (per visit) | $45 | $75 | $140 |
| Trim shrubs and hedges | $120 | $300 | $590 |
| Repair sprinklers | $150 | $320 | $710 |
| Clean up a yard | $240 | $530 | $1,050 |
| Trim a tree | $350 | $830 | $1,750 |
| Remove a tree | $590 | $1,400 | $3,550 |
| Lay new sod (1,000 sq ft) | $1,200 | $2,350 | $4,150 |
| Install a sprinkler system | $2,950 | $4,700 | $8,250 |
What affects the price
- Yard size, slope and access for equipment drive most quotes.
- Debris hauling and green-waste disposal are often charged separately.
- Recurring service (weekly or biweekly) is cheaper per visit than one-off jobs.
- Large trees near houses or power lines need specialised crews and cost more.
Landscapers in Santa Cruz: FAQ
How much does a landscaper cost in Santa Cruz?
Most outdoor & yard work jobs in Santa Cruz, CA cost $180–$1,050 for most yard jobs. Hourly rates typically run $45–$110. These are estimates based on typical US prices adjusted for local costs — the job's size, materials and access all move the price, so compare two or three quotes before you hire.
How do I find a landscaper near me in Santa Cruz?
Enter your ZIP code at the top of this page — Santa Cruz covers 95060 and 95064 — to see landscapers who serve your address, then compare their profiles and get free quotes. Pros listed here also serve nearby Aptos, Boulder Creek, Watsonville.
How do I choose the right landscaper in Santa Cruz?
Compare at least three pros. Check that their license is active with your state licensing board, ask for proof of insurance, read recent reviews, and get the scope, price and timeline in writing before work starts. Avoid paying the full amount up front.
Is it free to get quotes from landscapers on Contractors2Hire?
Yes. Sending a request and comparing quotes is free, with no obligation to hire. You pay the pro you choose directly for the work.
Does a landscaper need a license in California?
Any job worth $1,000 or more in labor and materials must be done by a CSLB-licensed contractor. For outdoor & yard work work that means a C-27 Landscaping license from the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). You can check any license number on the board's website before you hire.
How often should I schedule lawn care?
Weekly during peak growing season and every two weeks in cooler months is typical. Ask about seasonal plans — they're usually cheaper than booking visits one at a time.
Do I need a permit to remove a tree?
Many cities require one for large or protected trees, even on private property. Your landscaper or the city's planning office can tell you before work starts.
Areas and ZIP codes covered around Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz ZIP codes: 95060 · 95064
Nearby communities: Live Oak · Capitola · Soquel · Felton · Scotts Valley · Bonny Doon · Ben Lomond · Aptos
Nearby service areas
- Landscapers in Aptos, CA · 8 mi
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