Workers' Comp Insurance for Landscaping Businesses in California

Landscaping (NCCI class code 0042) covers lawn care, planting, hardscaping, and tree work under 25 feet. Tree work above 25 feet requires class code 0106 (Tree Pruning & Spraying), which has dramatically higher rates in California. The California workers' compensation market is governed by WCIRB, and the average rate statewide is approximately $1.45 per $100 of payroll.

California requirements for landscaping businesses

When required: Required for any employer with at least one employee — including roofing contractors with no employees other than the owner.

Sole proprietors: Sole proprietors with no employees are exempt unless in roofing (5552) — roofers must have coverage even with no employees.

Owner / officer exclusion: Corporate officers and LLC members may exclude themselves with Form 2570.

Landscaping class codes used in California

Why landscaping workers' comp is tricky in California

The line between landscaping (0042) and tree service (0106) is significant — climbing trees, using bucket trucks, or removing trees above 25 ft all push you into the higher-rate code.

Tips for California landscaping businesses

• ✓ Tree work over 25 ft = class 0106 — much higher rate
• ✓ Snow plowing in winter may need separate auto endorsement
• ✓ Seasonal businesses benefit from pay-as-you-go
• ✓ Owner exclusion can save significant premium for sole-proprietor lawn care

Landscaping workers' comp in other states

Rates and requirements for landscaping businesses vary widely by state. Compare California to other major markets:

Other industries in California

California workers' comp rates and requirements for other common industries: