Can a General Contractor do Landscaping?

Thinking about a big construction project?

Maybe a home renovation or a backyard project?

Whatever it is, hiring the right contractor is a huge decision. You want someone who knows what they’re doing, follows the rules, and gets the job done right.

But here’s a question that comes up a lot: Can a general contractor handle landscaping?

The short answer is = Sometimes.

But let’s break it down.

General Contractors vs. Specialized Contractors

Contractors aren’t all the same.

General Contractors

General contractors manage big projects.

They oversee multiple tasks, making sure everything stays on track.

Think of them as project managers for construction. If you're building a house or remodeling a kitchen, they keep all the moving parts in order.

Specialized Contractors

Specialized contractors focus on specific jobs like plumbing, roofing, or electrical work.

They bring deep expertise to ONE area, making sure things are done to a high standard.

So, where does landscaping fit in?

Landscaping: It's A Different Skill Set

Landscaping isn’t just planting flowers and mowing the lawn.

It involves designing outdoor spaces, grading land, installing irrigation systems, and even hardscaping (like patios and walkways).

That’s why there’s a special license for it—the C-27 Landscaping License.

General contractors don’t automatically have this license.

If they do, great! That means they can legally handle landscaping projects.

If not, they’ll need to hire a licensed landscape contractor to get the job done.

Why Licensing Matters

Licensing is a protection for you.

A licensed contractor:

Has proven their skills and knowledge.

Follows state regulations.

Carries insurance to cover accidents and damages.

Hiring someone without the right license is risky.

You could end up with poor-quality work, unexpected costs, or even legal trouble.

How to Check If a Contractor is Licensed

Before hiring anyone, do a quick license check. Here’s how:

Visit the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) website.

Enter the contractor’s license number.

Look for any complaints, disciplinary actions, or red flags.

This step takes just a few minutes but can save you from major headaches later.

When to Hire a Specialized Landscape Contractor

If your project is all about landscaping—grading, irrigation, patios, planting, and design—go with a licensed landscape contractor.

They have the training and experience to do it right.

But if landscaping is just one part of a bigger construction project, a general contractor with a C-27 license might be a good choice.

They can manage the entire job and make sure every part of it (including the landscaping) runs smoothly.

Red Flags When Hiring a Contractor

Be careful if a contractor:

Won’t show proof of a license or insurance.

Asks for a big upfront payment before starting.

Avoids giving a written contract.

Has lots of bad reviews or complaints.

If something feels off, trust your gut. There are plenty of trustworthy, skilled contractors out there.

Final Thoughts

So, can a general contractor do landscaping? It depends on their license. If they have a C-27 Landscaping License, then yes!

If not, it’s best to hire a licensed landscape contractor to make sure the job is done right.

Always check licenses, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to shop around for the best professional for your project.

Your home and outdoor space deserve the best!