Workers' Comp Insurance for Landscaping Businesses in Iowa

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 Iowa. The Iowa workers' compensation market is governed by NCCI, and the average rate statewide is approximately $1.06 per $100 of payroll.

Iowa requirements for landscaping businesses

When required: Required for any employer with at least one employee.

Sole proprietors: Sole proprietors are exempt unless they elect.

Owner / officer exclusion: Officers may exclude with state filing.

Landscaping class codes used in Iowa

Why landscaping workers' comp is tricky in Iowa

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 Iowa 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 Iowa to other major markets:

Other industries in Iowa

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