Workers' Comp Insurance for Landscaping Businesses in New Jersey

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 New Jersey. The New Jersey workers' compensation market is governed by NJCRIB, and the average rate statewide is approximately $1.99 per $100 of payroll.

New Jersey requirements for landscaping businesses

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

Sole proprietors: Sole proprietors are exempt unless they elect.

Owner / officer exclusion: Officers in close corporations may be excluded; LLC members may exclude.

Landscaping class codes used in New Jersey

Why landscaping workers' comp is tricky in New Jersey

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 New Jersey 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 New Jersey to other major markets:

Other industries in New Jersey

New Jersey workers' comp rates and requirements for other common industries: