| Quick facts | Answer |
|---|---|
| Cost range | About $35 to $150 per visit; many around $45 to $100 |
| Time | A typical residential job can take about 1.5 hours |
| Who's qualified | Mowing-only work does not require state home-improvement registration |
Does mowing-only work need registration in New Jersey?
A New Jersey consumer brief says a person who only mows lawns and trims shrubs does not have to register. Landscape work that includes planting flowers, shrubs, or trees, or laying sod to establish a lawn does require registration. Ask the pro whether their business is registered for the full scope of work you need.
Do commercial mowing businesses need a local license?
In Millburn Township, no one may do commercial landscaping or lawn maintenance without an annual license from the Department of Public Works. The township lists a $200 annual registration fee per business for 2026. Businesses using electric leaf blowers only pay a $50 annual fee.
What should a mowing contract include?
New Jersey requires contracts over $500 to be written and include the contractor's legal name, business address, start date, completion date, description of work, and total price. A state bill also requires landscaping contracts over $500 to be in clear, understandable language. Use this checklist for any larger lawn-care agreement.
Do gas mowers affect cost or choice?
Rutgers notes that lawn mowers and leaf blowers are a significant source of U.S. nonroad gasoline emissions. Rutgers also recommends hand-powered tools as a climate-smart alternative. Ask your pro whether they offer or use lower-emission equipment.
What to do next
- Request quotes that list the lawn size, number of visits, and whether edging or weed-whacking is included.
- Ask the pro for proof of insurance and any Millburn-style local business license or registration your town requires.
- If the job includes planting or sod, confirm the pro is registered as a home improvement contractor with the NJ Division of Consumer Affairs.
- Get any job over $500 in writing with the legal name, business address, start and completion dates, work description, and total price.
- Call (551) 290-5640 or email [email protected] for a free quote from an independent, insured local landscaper.
NJ Landscape Pros is a free referral service: an independent contractor does the work and may pay us a referral fee. You never pay us anything.
