How to Get a Landscaping Business License in New Mexico

Starting a landscaping business in New Mexico requires the correct licenses and permits to operate legally, maintain credibility, and avoid fines.

A business license ensures compliance with New Mexico state regulations while helping landscaping professionals build trust with residential and commercial clients.

This guide outlines the licensing requirements, costs, and application process to help you stay compliant.

This resource was created for new business owners and contractors to simplify the steps needed to launch your lawn care services legally and efficiently.

Do you need a license to start a landscaping business in New Mexico?

Starting a landscaping business in New Mexico requires a license application and permits to operate legally and avoid fines. While the state does not mandate a general business license, specific services like pesticide application require professional licenses.

• General business registration: All businesses must register with the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department to obtain a Tax ID Number.

• Local business licenses: Local municipalities may require a business license. For example, the City of Albuquerque mandates a business registration fee for each business located within city limits.

• Specialized services: Services such as pesticide application require a commercial applicator license issued by the New Mexico Department of Agriculture.

Failure to comply with these requirements can result in penalties, back taxes, or business shutdowns. Understanding state-specific licensing rules ensures compliance and smooth operations.

What are the types of landscaping business licenses & permits in New Mexico?

New Mexico licenses and permits are dependent on the landscaping services offered. Missing any of these can lead to compliance issues and fines.

General Business Registration

• State tax identification number: Every business operating in New Mexico must register with the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department to obtain a state tax identification number.

• Local business licenses: Municipalities may require additional business licenses. For instance, the City of Santa Fe imposes an annual business registration fee of $35.

Landscaping Contractor License

• State requirements: New Mexico does not require a state license for general landscaping services. However, specific services like pesticide application do require licensure.

• Local requirements: Some cities may have additional licensing requirements for landscaping services. It's essential to check with local authorities in the areas where you’ll provide service.

Specialized Licenses

• Commercial pesticide applicator license: Required for applying herbicides and pest control treatments, issued by the New Mexico Department of Agriculture. Applicants must have two years of experience or 20 hours of college credits, plus one year of experience, and must pass the core exam and at least one category exam.

• Irrigation contractor license: While not always mandatory, obtaining certification can enhance credibility and ensure compliance with best practices.

Permits & Local Regulations

• Zoning permits: Ensure compliance with local land-use regulations

• Environmental permits: Required when dealing with stormwater runoff or protected land

• Sales tax permits: Necessary if your business charges tax for landscaping services

• Noise ordinances: May restrict lawn mowing and other heavy equipment use at certain hours

Step-by-step process to get a landscaping business license in New Mexico

Step 1: Choose your business structure

New businesses need to decide between a sole proprietorship, LLC, or corporation—a proper structure to minimize taxes and protect company assets.

• Both LLCs and corporations offer liability protection.

• Register your business with the New Mexico Secretary of State if forming an LLC or corporation.

• Sole proprietors may need to file a DBA (Doing Business As) name.

Step 2: Register your business name

• Check name availability through the New Mexico Secretary of State’s database.

• File a DBA (Assumed Name Certificate) if using a different name than your legal entity.

• Register the business name with the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department if collecting sales tax.

• Ensure compliance with local county or city name registration rules.

Step 3: Obtain a tax ID number

The IRS requires a tax ID number or EIN for tax purposes and hiring employees.

• Apply online for free via the IRS website.

• Needed for opening a business bank account and filing taxes.

• Helps with processing payroll for employees.

Step 4: Meet state-specific licensing requirements

• Check with the New Mexico Department of Agriculture and local city offices.

• Ensure compliance with pesticide, irrigation, and environmental laws.

• Some cities may require additional contractor permits.

Step 5: Apply for necessary permits & certifications

• Commercial pesticide applicator license: Required for applying herbicides and pest control treatments. Issued by the licensing board at the New Mexico Department of Agriculture. 

Applicants must have two years of experience or 20 hours of college credits, plus one year of experience, and pass the core exam and at least one category exam.

• Irrigation contractor license: While not always mandatory, obtaining certification can enhance credibility and ensure compliance with best practices.

• Tree trimming or landscaping permits: Required in certain cities.

Step 6: Get business insurance & bonds

• General liability insurance: Protects against property damage, accidents, or legal claims.

• Workers’ compensation insurance: Required in most states for businesses with employees, whether small or large.

• Surety bonds: May be required for government landscaping contracts.

Step 7: Pay fees & submit your application

• Business license costs vary but range from $50 to $500.

• Specialized permits may cost more, depending on the service.

• Submit applications online through the New Mexico Department of Agriculture or local offices.

Step 8: Renew & maintain compliance

• Most license renewals are annual or biennial.

• Continuing education may be required for pesticide and irrigation licenses.

• Update business insurance and sales tax permits as needed.

How much does a New Mexico landscaping business license cost?

• General business registration: $50–$500

• Specialty contractor licenses: Varies by service type

• Insurance and bonding costs: $500–$2,000 annually

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when getting a license?

Avoiding common licensing mistakes ensures that your landscaping business in New Mexico remains legally compliant and operational. Many business owners face unnecessary delays and financial penalties due to misunderstandings:

• State license requirements

• Insurance needs

• Renewal timelines

Taking the time to meet all licensure obligations will help prevent disruptions and legal risks.

Below are the most frequent mistakes landscaping business owners make and how to avoid them.

1. Skipping state-specific requirements

New Mexico licenses vary based on the type of landscaping services offered. Business owners must check government resources to determine eligibility.

Some services require additional certifications, such as:

• Pesticide application 

• Irrigation installation

A contractor license is mandatory for any work classified as construction, such as retaining walls or hardscaping.

A failure to meet licensing department requirements can result in fines, project delays, or business closure.

2. Not getting the right insurance or bonding

General business insurance, including general liability insurance, protects against property damage and client disputes.

✓ Workers’ compensation insurance is required for businesses with employees to cover workplace injuries.

✓ A surety bond may be necessary for government landscaping contracts or municipal projects.

Lack of proper coverage can lead to license application denials and financial liabilities.

3. Failing to renew on time

Most New Mexico business licenses, permits, and professional licenses require annual or biennial license renewal.

The New Mexico Secretary of State may revoke a business registration for failing to renew on time.

Some certifications, such as a pesticide applicator license, require continuing education for renewal.

Missing renewal deadlines can lead to:

• Extra fees

• Suspended licenses

• Inability to secure new projects

Understanding licensing requirements and avoiding common mistakes ensures a smooth application process. With proper preparation, business owners can secure the necessary permits and state licenses efficiently.

How Aspire helps landscaping businesses stay organized & compliant

Aspire’s landscape business software helps business owners manage contracts, invoicing, compliance, and job scheduling.

Contract & Proposal Management

Store and manage service agreements to ensure compliance with New Mexico regulations, whether for landscaping construction projects or lawn care maintenance contracts.

Invoicing & Payment Processing

Automate billing for landscaping services, irrigation, and tree care with Aspire’s invoicing assistant and keep cloud-based financial records.

Pesticide & Irrigation Compliance Tracking

Maintain digital copies of employee certifications and safety training records to ensure compliance with New Mexico Department of Agriculture regulations.

Business Reporting & Documentation

Track expenses, revenue, and job costs in real time and use Aspire’s integration with popular accounting platforms like QuickBooks and Acumatica to maintain tax filing records.

Organize essential documents for workers’ compensation insurance and surety bonds.

Scheduling & Job Management

Assign jobs to the crews with the correct certifications based on local licensing and permit requirements.

Over to you

A New Mexico business license is crucial for legal compliance and long-term success.

Aspire helps landscaping professionals manage contracts, invoicing, and compliance effortlessly.

Book a free demo to see how Aspire streamlines your New Mexico landscaping business operations.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or financial advice. While every care was taken using official sources, you should always verify requirements with the licensing department at the New Mexico official government website.