Landscaping Business Permit Requirements in Hilo, HI

Complete permit and license guide for starting a landscaping business in Hilo, Hawaii County, Hawaii.

$200 -- $700 2–6 weeks to obtain all licenses 5 requirements

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

Hilo / Hawaii County Requirements

2 requirements
1

County of Hawaii Finance Department — Business License

Hilo (Hawaii County) requires a County business registration and applicable permits. Contact the County Finance Department for business license requirements. This license must be renewed annually and displayed at your place of business.

$50–$500/year depending on business type and gross revenues1–3 weeks
Official government source
2

Hawaii County / Hilo Contractor Registration

Landscaping contractors may need to register with Hawaii County or the City of Hilo. Some jurisdictions require a separate contractor's registration for landscaping and irrigation work.

$50–$2001–3 weeks
Official government source

Hawaii State Requirements

2 requirements
1

Hawaii Department of Taxation — General Excise Tax License

Hawaii does not have a traditional sales tax but requires all businesses to pay a General Excise Tax (GET) on gross income from business activities. The GET rate is 4% (4.5% in Honolulu). All businesses must register for a GET license with the Hawaii Department of Taxation.

$20 (one-time registration fee)2–4 weeks (by mail) or immediate (in-person)
Official government source
2

Hawaii Pesticide Applicator License

If you apply pesticides or herbicides as part of landscaping services in Hawaii, you must hold a Commercial Pesticide Applicator License from the state department of agriculture.

$50–$200 (exam and license)2–4 weeks
Official government source

Federal Requirements

1 requirement
1

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC or corporation. Free from the IRS.

FreeImmediate (online application)
Official government source

Official Sources

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