Workers' Comp Insurance for Landscaping Businesses in Massachusetts

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 Massachusetts. The Massachusetts workers' compensation market is governed by WCRIBMA, and the average rate statewide is approximately $0.94 per $100 of payroll.

Massachusetts requirements for landscaping businesses

When required: Required for any employer with at least one employee, including part-time and family members.

Sole proprietors: Sole proprietors are exempt unless they elect; partners can be excluded.

Owner / officer exclusion: Officers may opt out; LLC members may exclude.

Landscaping class codes used in Massachusetts

Why landscaping workers' comp is tricky in Massachusetts

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 Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts to other major markets:

Other industries in Massachusetts

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