Workers' Comp Insurance for Landscaping Businesses in Texas

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 Texas. The Texas workers' compensation market is governed by TDI, and the average rate statewide is approximately $1.04 per $100 of payroll.

Texas requirements for landscaping businesses

When required: OPTIONAL — Texas is the only state where private employers are NOT required to carry workers' comp.

Sole proprietors: Optional for sole proprietors.

Owner / officer exclusion: Officers may be excluded if employer chooses to carry coverage.

Landscaping class codes used in Texas

Why landscaping workers' comp is tricky in Texas

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 Texas 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 Texas to other major markets:

Other industries in Texas

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