Landscaping Business Permit Requirements in Portland, OR

Complete permit and license guide for starting a landscaping business in Portland, Multnomah County, Oregon.

Updated 2026-03-13 6 stops $500–$1,200 est. 4–8 weeks
Get my personalized route — $14.99

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 Oregon

4 stops

  1. Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB) License

    The Oregon Construction Contractors Board requires licensure for any business performing landscaping, grading, irrigation installation, retaining wall construction, or other site work for compensation. This applies to virtually all landscaping businesses in Oregon. The application requires a surety bond, proof of general liability insurance, and payment of fees.

    Official government source

    $325 application fee + surety bond (~$100–$200/year)3–6 weeks

  2. Oregon Secretary of State Business Registration

    All formal business entities operating in Oregon must register with the Oregon Secretary of State. An LLC is common for landscaping businesses due to liability exposure. Filing costs approximately $100 for an LLC.

    Official government source

    $100 (LLC filing fee)1–2 weeks

  3. Oregon Department of Agriculture Pesticide Applicator License

    If your landscaping business applies herbicides, pesticides, or fertilizers, the Oregon Department of Agriculture requires a Commercial Pesticide Applicator License. This includes lawn care, weed control, and pest management services. Requires passing a written exam.

    Official government source

    $50–$150/year2–4 weeks

  4. Oregon Department of Revenue Business Tax Registration

    All businesses in Oregon must register with the Oregon Department of Revenue for tax purposes. Oregon has no sales tax, so landscaping services are not subject to sales tax collection — a notable advantage for service businesses.

    Official government source

    Free1 week

City of Portland / Multnomah County

1 stop

  1. City of Portland Business License

    Issued by the City of Portland Revenue Division, this license is required for all businesses operating within Portland city limits. The fee is revenue-based with a minimum annual base fee around $100. Landscapers performing work within city limits must obtain and maintain this license.

    Official government source

    $100+/year (based on revenue)1–2 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $500–$1,200 · 4–8 weeks

Want this mapped to your exact business and structure, in filing order?

Get my personalized route — $14.99

Official Sources

Related Guides