Workers' Comp Insurance for Landscaping Businesses in Florida

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 Florida. The Florida workers' compensation market is governed by NCCI, and the average rate statewide is approximately $1.42 per $100 of payroll.

Florida requirements for landscaping businesses

When required: Required for non-construction employers with 4+ employees, construction with 1+, agricultural with 6+ regular or 12+ seasonal employees.

Sole proprietors: Sole proprietors in construction are NOT exempt — must have coverage. Non-construction sole props may be exempt..

Owner / officer exclusion: Construction owners can apply for exemption (max 3 per corp); non-construction can exempt up to 3 officers per corp.

Landscaping class codes used in Florida

Why landscaping workers' comp is tricky in Florida

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 Florida 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 Florida to other major markets:

Other industries in Florida

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