Landscaping Business Permit Requirements in Minneapolis, MN

Complete permit and license guide for starting a landscaping business in Minneapolis, Hennepin County, Minnesota.

Updated 2026-03-13 6 stops $200–$700 est. 3–6 weeks
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Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. This guide was compiled from public and official sources (last updated ) and has not yet been independently source-verified — confirm each requirement before acting on it.

Federal — start here

1 stop

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

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

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online)

State of Minnesota

4 stops

  1. Minnesota Secretary of State Business Registration

    All formal business entities (LLC, corporation) operating in Minnesota must register with the Minnesota Secretary of State. An LLC is commonly used by landscaping businesses for liability protection. Filing costs approximately $155.

    Official government source

    $155 (LLC filing fee)1–2 weeks

  2. Minnesota Department of Agriculture Pesticide Applicator License

    If your landscaping business applies herbicides, pesticides, or other regulated chemicals, the Minnesota Department of Agriculture requires a Commercial Pesticide Applicator License. The license requires passing a written exam and may have category-specific endorsements (e.g., turf and ornamentals, right-of-way). Renewal is annual.

    Official government source

    $100–$200/year2–4 weeks

  3. Minnesota Department of Labor & Industry Contractor License

    If your landscaping business performs structural work such as retaining walls, water features with plumbing, or irrigation system installations, a Minnesota contractor license from the Department of Labor & Industry (DLI) may be required. This requirement applies to work on structures and connected systems.

    Official government source

    $100–$300/year2–6 weeks

  4. Minnesota Department of Revenue Sales Tax License

    Landscaping services in Minnesota may be subject to sales tax depending on the nature of the work (installation vs. maintenance). Businesses must register for a sales tax license with the Minnesota Department of Revenue to properly assess and remit taxes on taxable services.

    Official government source

    Free1 week

City of Minneapolis / Hennepin County

1 stop

  1. City of Minneapolis Business License

    The City of Minneapolis Department of Safety & Inspections (DSI) requires a business license for landscaping companies operating within Minneapolis. The fee is modest for small service businesses. Renewal is annual.

    Official government source

    $50–$100/year1–2 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $200–$700 · 3–6 weeks

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Official Sources

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