Preview: figures awaiting verification
Some numbers on this page haven't been checked against their sources yet.
Lawn Care Business
A weekly mowing, edging and cleanup route needs no state license in California and modest equipment, while fertilizer and weed treatment is a separately licensed add-on.
Figures last verified October 30, 2026
$5,199 – $16,510*Pending verificationSourcesCutler's — Toro 22297 commercial 21-inch heavy-duty self-propelled mower(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Central Maine Equipment — Toro 22297 heavy-duty 21-inch self-propelled mower(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Causeway Mower — Toro 22297 heavy-duty 21-inch self-propelled mower(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026STIHL USA — FS 91 gasoline grass trimmer(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026STIHL USA — professional edgers (FC 91 edger)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026STIHL USA — BR 600 gasoline backpack blower(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Family Farm & Home — Carry-On 5 ft x 8 ft utility trailer(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Exmark — Radius commercial zero-turn mowers(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Load Runner Trailers — new 2027 Hook & Line 6 x 12 enclosed trailer, 3.5k GVWR(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026California Secretary of State — LLC forms and fees(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026California Franchise Tax Board — limited liability company(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Computed from 10 startup budget line items: lean plan low to professional plan high. Some lines are not sourced yet and are excluded.
Startup cost
Coming soon
Time to first revenue
Low
Difficulty
High
Physical demand
Yes
Can run solo
Spring–summer peak; slower winter growth
Seasonality
* Startup cost excludes budget lines we haven't sourced yet.
Risk Meter
Eight factors from this guide's own data, each scored 1 (lowest risk) to 5 (highest). Every score shows why.
Overall risk
Moderate
2.3 out of 5
Average of 6 of 8 factors, weighted equally. 1 is the lowest risk and 5 the highest. It measures risk, not how much you'll earn, and it isn't a prediction. How we score risk.
Money at risk
Not scoredAt least $16,510
5 startup lines aren't sourced yet, so the real total is higher. We'll score this once the budget is complete.
Time to earn it back
Not scoredNot scored yet
Some startup or operating cost lines aren't sourced yet, so a payback time would look shorter than it really is.
Franchise closure rate
2 / 53.4% a yearPending verificationSourcesWeed Man 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued March 31, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Lawn Doctor 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026The Grounds Guys 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 1, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026SpringGreen 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued March 30, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Closures = terminations + non-renewals + outlets that ceased operations, divided by franchised outlets at the start of the year.
Average of 4 brands: Weed Man 2.5% (2025); Lawn Doctor 0.8% (2025); The Grounds Guys 9.6% (2025); Spring-Green Lawn Care 0.8% (2025). Our calculation from each FDD's Item 20.
Loan default rate
3 / 56.6% vs 7.2% for all industriesPending verificationSourceSBA 7(a) FOIA loan-level data, files as of September 30, 2026 (our count by NAICS code)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Charged off = the SBA wrote off the unpaid balance after the borrower stopped paying. An industry code can include businesses unlike this one.
451 of 6,884 SBA 7(a) loans to Landscaping Services (NAICS 561730), approved FY2010–2019, were charged off. Our count from the SBA's loan-level data; 537 loans were still open, so the final rate may be slightly higher.
Demand trend
2 / 5Growing fasterPending verificationSourcesU.S. Census Bureau — County Business Patterns 2019, U.S. file (cbp19us)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026U.S. Census Bureau — County Business Patterns 2023, U.S. file (cbp23us)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026
Landscaping services, which includes lawn care (NAICS 561730): employer establishments +9.2% (108,024 to 117,969) vs +5.1% for all industries, 2019–2023.
Licensing and rules
1 / 5Light
Mowing, edging and cleanup need only a city or county business license. Adding weed treatment needs a DPR Qualified Applicator Certificate and pest control business license (see Licensing).
Customer concentration
1 / 5Many customers
Many households on weekly routes; losing one client barely matters.
Physical demand
5 / 5High
From the guide's at-a-glance rating; see the risks section for details.
Franchise vs. Independent
Same type of business. Two very different paths.
| Franchise (4 brands) | Independent | |
|---|---|---|
| Franchise fee | $30,000 – $118,000Pending verificationSourcesWeed Man 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued March 31, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Lawn Doctor 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026The Grounds Guys 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 1, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026SpringGreen 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued March 30, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Range across 4 franchise brands. | $0 |
| Initial investment | $81,150 – $252,850Pending verificationSourcesWeed Man 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued March 31, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Lawn Doctor 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026The Grounds Guys 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 1, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026SpringGreen 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued March 30, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026FDD Item 7 estimated initial investment (includes the franchise fee), across 4 brands. | $5,199 – $16,510*Pending verificationSourcesCutler's — Toro 22297 commercial 21-inch heavy-duty self-propelled mower(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Central Maine Equipment — Toro 22297 heavy-duty 21-inch self-propelled mower(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Causeway Mower — Toro 22297 heavy-duty 21-inch self-propelled mower(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026STIHL USA — FS 91 gasoline grass trimmer(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026STIHL USA — professional edgers (FC 91 edger)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026STIHL USA — BR 600 gasoline backpack blower(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Family Farm & Home — Carry-On 5 ft x 8 ft utility trailer(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Exmark — Radius commercial zero-turn mowers(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Load Runner Trailers — new 2027 Hook & Line 6 x 12 enclosed trailer, 3.5k GVWR(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026California Secretary of State — LLC forms and fees(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026California Franchise Tax Board — limited liability company(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Computed from 10 startup budget line items: lean plan low to professional plan high. Some lines are not sourced yet and are excluded. |
| Ongoing royalties | 5% – 10% of revenuePending verificationSourcesWeed Man 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued March 31, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Lawn Doctor 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026The Grounds Guys 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 1, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026SpringGreen 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued March 30, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Percent of gross revenue, across 4 brands. | None |
| Operating costs (5 years) | $26,990 – $28,190Pending verificationSourcesInsureon — lawn care business insurance cost(opens in a new tab)Tier 2 · Industry report · Accessed October 30, 2026Jobber — pricing(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026California Franchise Tax Board — limited liability company(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Five years of the operating costs we have sourced so far (insurance, software, fees), charged to both paths. | $26,990 – $28,190 |
| Brand, training, and support | Included | You build your own |
| 5-year total cost | $132,018 – $359,307 | $32,189 – $44,700* |
Franchise fee
- Franchise (4 brands)
- $30,000 – $118,000Pending verificationSourcesWeed Man 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued March 31, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Lawn Doctor 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026The Grounds Guys 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 1, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026SpringGreen 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued March 30, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Range across 4 franchise brands.
- Independent
- $0
Initial investment
- Franchise (4 brands)
- $81,150 – $252,850Pending verificationSourcesWeed Man 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued March 31, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Lawn Doctor 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026The Grounds Guys 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 1, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026SpringGreen 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued March 30, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026FDD Item 7 estimated initial investment (includes the franchise fee), across 4 brands.
- Independent
- $5,199 – $16,510*Pending verificationSourcesCutler's — Toro 22297 commercial 21-inch heavy-duty self-propelled mower(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Central Maine Equipment — Toro 22297 heavy-duty 21-inch self-propelled mower(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Causeway Mower — Toro 22297 heavy-duty 21-inch self-propelled mower(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026STIHL USA — FS 91 gasoline grass trimmer(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026STIHL USA — professional edgers (FC 91 edger)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026STIHL USA — BR 600 gasoline backpack blower(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Family Farm & Home — Carry-On 5 ft x 8 ft utility trailer(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Exmark — Radius commercial zero-turn mowers(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Load Runner Trailers — new 2027 Hook & Line 6 x 12 enclosed trailer, 3.5k GVWR(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026California Secretary of State — LLC forms and fees(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026California Franchise Tax Board — limited liability company(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Computed from 10 startup budget line items: lean plan low to professional plan high. Some lines are not sourced yet and are excluded.
Ongoing royalties
- Franchise (4 brands)
- 5% – 10% of revenuePending verificationSourcesWeed Man 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued March 31, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Lawn Doctor 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026The Grounds Guys 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 1, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026SpringGreen 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued March 30, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Percent of gross revenue, across 4 brands.
- Independent
- None
Operating costs (5 years)
- Franchise (4 brands)
- $26,990 – $28,190Pending verificationSourcesInsureon — lawn care business insurance cost(opens in a new tab)Tier 2 · Industry report · Accessed October 30, 2026Jobber — pricing(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026California Franchise Tax Board — limited liability company(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Five years of the operating costs we have sourced so far (insurance, software, fees), charged to both paths.
- Independent
- $26,990 – $28,190
Brand, training, and support
- Franchise (4 brands)
- Included
- Independent
- You build your own
5-year total cost
- Franchise (4 brands)
- $132,018 – $359,307
- Independent
- $32,189 – $44,700*
5-year totals assume $58,240–$97,500 in yearly revenue (our forecast presets at full volume), the same sourced operating costs (insurance, software, fees) on both paths, and both the lean and professional independent plans. Franchise investment figures come from each brand's disclosure (FDD Item 7) and already include the franchise fee. * Excludes independent startup lines we haven't sourced yet. Adjust the assumptions.
What franchisees report taking in
From each brand's own disclosure (FDD Item 19), copied exactly. These are gross sales before royalties and costs, not profit, and not a promise of what you will earn.
Weed Man
The 2026 FDD reports 2025 gross sales for 149 U.S. franchised locations open all of 2025, with quarters; one location usually serves many territories.
- Average 2025 gross sales, 149 franchised locations open all of 2025$2,042,513.75 a yearPending verificationSourceWeed Man 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued March 31, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026FDD Item 19, Tables 1 and 2. Gross sales from unaudited franchisee reports, not profit. Leaves out 4 of 153 locations not open all year. At the end of 2025 the 153 locations served 795 territories, so a typical location is much larger than one new territory. Your results may differ.
- Median 2025 gross sales, same 149 locations$1,693,229.65 a yearPending verificationSourceWeed Man 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued March 31, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026FDD Item 19, Tables 1 and 2. Gross sales from unaudited franchisee reports, not profit. Leaves out 4 of 153 locations not open all year. At the end of 2025 the 153 locations served 795 territories, so a typical location is much larger than one new territory. Your results may differ.
- Average 2025 gross sales, top quarter (39 locations)$4,193,600.39 a yearPending verificationSourceWeed Man 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued March 31, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026FDD Item 19, Tables 1 and 2. Gross sales from unaudited franchisee reports, not profit. Leaves out 4 of 153 locations not open all year. At the end of 2025 the 153 locations served 795 territories, so a typical location is much larger than one new territory. Your results may differ.
- Average 2025 gross sales, bottom quarter (37 locations)$347,272.33 a yearPending verificationSourceWeed Man 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued March 31, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026FDD Item 19, Tables 1 and 2. Gross sales from unaudited franchisee reports, not profit. Leaves out 4 of 153 locations not open all year. At the end of 2025 the 153 locations served 795 territories, so a typical location is much larger than one new territory. Your results may differ.
Lawn Doctor
The 2026 FDD reports 2025 net revenues for 202 franchisees open at least two full years, grouped by how many territories they run, plus customer and gross-margin data.
- Average 2025 net revenues, 141 franchisees running 1–3 territories, open 2+ years$639,509 a yearPending verificationSourceLawn Doctor 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026FDD Item 19, Table A. Net revenues are gross revenue collected less sales tax and refunds, before expenses, not profit; unaudited weekly franchisee reports. Leaves out holiday-lighting revenue and company-owned units. 46 of 141 one-to-three-territory franchisees (33%) reached their group average. Your results may differ.
- Median 2025 net revenues, same 141 franchisees$400,901 a yearPending verificationSourceLawn Doctor 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026FDD Item 19, Table A. Net revenues are gross revenue collected less sales tax and refunds, before expenses, not profit; unaudited weekly franchisee reports. Leaves out holiday-lighting revenue and company-owned units. 46 of 141 one-to-three-territory franchisees (33%) reached their group average. Your results may differ.
- Average 2025 net revenues, all 202 franchisees open 2+ years$1,170,356 a yearPending verificationSourceLawn Doctor 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026FDD Item 19, Table A. Net revenues are gross revenue collected less sales tax and refunds, before expenses, not profit; unaudited weekly franchisee reports. Leaves out holiday-lighting revenue and company-owned units. 46 of 141 one-to-three-territory franchisees (33%) reached their group average. Your results may differ.
- Median 2025 net revenues, all 202 franchisees$616,233 a yearPending verificationSourceLawn Doctor 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026FDD Item 19, Table A. Net revenues are gross revenue collected less sales tax and refunds, before expenses, not profit; unaudited weekly franchisee reports. Leaves out holiday-lighting revenue and company-owned units. 46 of 141 one-to-three-territory franchisees (33%) reached their group average. Your results may differ.
The Grounds Guys
The 2026 FDD reports 2025 gross sales for 105 franchises open at least 3 years and 56 open under 3 years; it leaves out 44 seasonal businesses that reported under 9 months and 20 that closed.
- Average 2025 gross sales, 105 franchises open 3+ years$820,392 a yearPending verificationSourceThe Grounds Guys 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 1, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026FDD Item 19, Tables 1A and 1B. Gross sales, not profit. Only businesses reporting at least 9 months of 2025 are included; 9 new, 5 transferred, 20 closed and 44 seasonal businesses are left out. 37 of 105 (35%) of the older group reached the average. Your results may differ.
- Median 2025 gross sales, same 105 franchises$533,092 a yearPending verificationSourceThe Grounds Guys 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 1, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026FDD Item 19, Tables 1A and 1B. Gross sales, not profit. Only businesses reporting at least 9 months of 2025 are included; 9 new, 5 transferred, 20 closed and 44 seasonal businesses are left out. 37 of 105 (35%) of the older group reached the average. Your results may differ.
- Average 2025 gross sales, 56 franchises open under 3 years$392,054 a yearPending verificationSourceThe Grounds Guys 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 1, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026FDD Item 19, Tables 1A and 1B. Gross sales, not profit. Only businesses reporting at least 9 months of 2025 are included; 9 new, 5 transferred, 20 closed and 44 seasonal businesses are left out. 37 of 105 (35%) of the older group reached the average. Your results may differ.
- Median 2025 gross sales, same 56 franchises$294,312 a yearPending verificationSourceThe Grounds Guys 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 1, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026FDD Item 19, Tables 1A and 1B. Gross sales, not profit. Only businesses reporting at least 9 months of 2025 are included; 9 new, 5 transferred, 20 closed and 44 seasonal businesses are left out. 37 of 105 (35%) of the older group reached the average. Your results may differ.
Spring-Green Lawn Care
The 2026 FDD reports 2025 gross sales for 72 franchised businesses open at least a full year (single- and multi-territory), plus gross-margin results for 62.
- Average 2025 gross sales, 72 franchised businesses open a full year or more$1,120,124 a yearPending verificationSourceSpringGreen 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued March 30, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026FDD Item 19, Table B. Gross sales (billed, less discounts and taxes), not profit. A business may report several territories together. 28 of 72 (39%) reached the overall average. Your results may differ.
- Median 2025 gross sales, same 72 businesses$929,227 a yearPending verificationSourceSpringGreen 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued March 30, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026FDD Item 19, Table B. Gross sales (billed, less discounts and taxes), not profit. A business may report several territories together. 28 of 72 (39%) reached the overall average. Your results may differ.
- Average 2025 gross sales, 35 single-territory businesses$773,988 a yearPending verificationSourceSpringGreen 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued March 30, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026FDD Item 19, Table B. Gross sales (billed, less discounts and taxes), not profit. A business may report several territories together. 28 of 72 (39%) reached the overall average. Your results may differ.
- Median 2025 gross sales, same 35 single-territory businesses$608,238 a yearPending verificationSourceSpringGreen 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued March 30, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026FDD Item 19, Table B. Gross sales (billed, less discounts and taxes), not profit. A business may report several territories together. 28 of 72 (39%) reached the overall average. Your results may differ.
What a franchise does give you
Franchises cost more, but the fees buy real things. Weigh them honestly.
- Well-known lawn treatment brand with exclusive territories
- 7-day initial training covering agronomy, operations, software and marketing
- A franchise business coach for ongoing support
- Access to Weed Man's own fertilizer products
- Mosquito and tick control (Mosquito Hero) included as an add-on service
- Long-established national lawn treatment brand
- Multi-week initial training at headquarters in Holmdel, New Jersey
- Regional business consultants who visit on site in the first years
- Mosquito, tick and other pest services to sell alongside lawn treatments
- Mowing and maintenance plus landscaping, irrigation and lighting under one brand
- Part of Neighborly, a large home-services franchise group
- Buying network through ProTradeNet
- Local marketing resources and ongoing support
- 20% off the franchise fee for veterans
- Established lawn and tree care treatment brand
- Initial training in operations, marketing, technology and finance
- Ongoing education and national conferences
- Can be added to an existing landscaping or mowing business
Going independent means
- You keep 100% of what you earn after costs — no royalties.
- You build your own brand, systems, and customer base.
- You need more self-reliance, especially in the first year.
Startup Budget
One-time costs to launch, from cited sources. Totals are added up from the lines below.
| Item | Low | Mid | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commercial 21-inch self-propelled walk-behind mowerPending verificationSourcesCutler's — Toro 22297 commercial 21-inch heavy-duty self-propelled mower(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Central Maine Equipment — Toro 22297 heavy-duty 21-inch self-propelled mower(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Causeway Mower — Toro 22297 heavy-duty 21-inch self-propelled mower(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Toro 22297 (Kawasaki engine) at three dealers: $1,949, $2,027 and $2,166. Before tax and delivery. | $1,949 | $2,058 | $2,166 |
| String trimmer, professional gasPending verificationSourceSTIHL USA — FS 91 gasoline grass trimmer(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026STIHL FS 91 list price. California's small-engine rules affect which new gas models can be sold here; battery models are an alternative. | $380 | $380 | $380 |
| Stick edger, professional gasPending verificationSourceSTIHL USA — professional edgers (FC 91 edger)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026STIHL FC 91 list price. | $430 | $430 | $430 |
| Backpack leaf blower, gasPending verificationSourceSTIHL USA — BR 600 gasoline backpack blower(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026STIHL BR 600 list price. Many California cities restrict gas leaf blowers; check your city before buying. | $550 | $550 | $550 |
| Open utility trailer, 5 × 8 ftPending verificationSourceFamily Farm & Home — Carry-On 5 ft x 8 ft utility trailer(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Carry-On 5 × 8 special price (regular $1,099.99). | $1,000 | $1,000 | $1,000 |
| LLC filing (Articles of Organization)Pending verificationSourceCalifornia Secretary of State — LLC forms and fees(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026 | $70 | $70 | $70 |
| LLC Statement of InformationPending verificationSourceCalifornia Secretary of State — LLC forms and fees(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Due within 90 days of forming the LLC, then every two years. | $20 | $20 | $20 |
| California LLC annual tax (first year)Pending verificationSourceCalifornia Franchise Tax Board — limited liability company(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026The first-year exemption only applied to tax years 2021–2023; LLCs formed now owe it in year one. | $800 | $800 | $800 |
| City or county business license | Data coming soon | ||
| Safety gear (hearing and eye protection, gloves, boots) | Data coming soon | ||
| Hand tools, fuel cans and spare blades | Data coming soon | ||
| Scheduling and invoicing software setup | Data coming soon | ||
| Marketing launch (door hangers, yard signs, simple website) | Data coming soon | ||
| Total (sourced lines only) | $5,199 | $5,307 | $5,416 |
Share of mid estimate
- Commercial 21-inch self-propelled walk-behind mower39%
- String trimmer, professional gas7%
- Stick edger, professional gas8%
- Backpack leaf blower, gas10%
- Open utility trailer, 5 × 8 ft19%
- LLC filing (Articles of Organization)1%
- LLC Statement of Information0%
- California LLC annual tax (first year)15%
Budget spreadsheet
Every line with its sources, included in the complete kit.
Mid is the halfway point between low and high where a source gives only a range.
The total leaves out 5 lines we haven't sourced yet. We don't guess.
AlternativePickup truck to tow the trailer (if you don't own one): $43,790 – $67,573Pending verificationSourceCox Automotive — Kelley Blue Book average transaction price tables, September 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 2 · Industry report · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Average new-vehicle transaction prices for September 2026: small/mid-size pickup $43,790; full-size pickup $67,573.
The single biggest cost if you need it. A used truck costs less, but we have no sourced used-truck figure yet. Not included in the total above.
AlternativePesticide applicator certificate, subcategory Q (QAC-Q): $205 – $275Pending verificationSourceCalifornia DPR — Qualified Applicator Certificate packet (Rev. 7/24)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026$90 application fee plus $115 exam fee; some new applicants also owe a $70 second-year fee to align the renewal cycle.
Only if you will apply weed killers or other pesticides. Not needed for mowing, edging or cleanup. Not included in the total above.
AlternativeMaintenance Gardener Pest Control Business license (DPR): $180 – $360Pending verificationSourceCalifornia DPR — Maintenance Gardener Pest Control Business license packet (Rev. 7/24)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026$180 per calendar year; first license costs $180 or $360 depending on your business name and the year you apply.
Only if you will apply weed killers or other pesticides. Not included in the total above.
AlternativeCounty agricultural commissioner registration: Data coming soon
Required in each county where you apply pesticides; fees vary by county. Not included in the total above.
24-Month Forecast
An example to plan with. Every assumption is yours to change.
This is an estimate, not a prediction
Ticket is the low end of Thumbtack's typical mowing range ($56). Jobs per week, a slow 12-month ramp, 18% for fuel and upkeep, and the seasonal shape are our assumptions, not operator data. Change any assumption to match your market. Your results will differ.
- Break-even
- Month 4
- Year-1 revenue
- $35,833
- Year-2 profit
- $42,237
Show monthly table
| Month | Jobs | Revenue | Costs | Profit | Cumulative cash |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 (Mar) | 23.4 | $1,310 | $696 | $615 | -$4,692 |
| 2 (Apr) | 36.2 | $2,030 | $825 | $1,204 | -$3,488 |
| 3 (May) | 46.3 | $2,592 | $927 | $1,666 | -$1,823 |
| 4 (Jun) | 53.2 | $2,978 | $996 | $1,982 | $159 |
| 5 (Jul) | 57.7 | $3,230 | $1,041 | $2,188 | $2,348 |
| 6 (Aug) | 64.3 | $3,600 | $1,108 | $2,492 | $4,840 |
| 7 (Sep) | 65.0 | $3,640 | $1,115 | $2,525 | $7,365 |
| 8 (Oct) | 64.6 | $3,618 | $1,111 | $2,507 | $9,872 |
| 9 (Nov) | 63.1 | $3,534 | $1,096 | $2,438 | $12,309 |
| 10 (Dec) | 56.7 | $3,177 | $1,032 | $2,145 | $14,454 |
| 11 (Jan) | 48.7 | $2,727 | $951 | $1,776 | $16,230 |
| 12 (Feb) | 60.7 | $3,397 | $1,072 | $2,326 | $18,556 |
| 13 (Mar) | 78.0 | $4,368 | $1,246 | $3,122 | $21,678 |
| 14 (Apr) | 99.7 | $5,581 | $1,465 | $4,117 | $25,795 |
| 15 (May) | 108.3 | $6,067 | $1,552 | $4,515 | $30,309 |
| 16 (Jun) | 108.3 | $6,067 | $1,552 | $4,515 | $34,824 |
| 17 (Jul) | 104.0 | $5,824 | $1,508 | $4,316 | $39,140 |
| 18 (Aug) | 104.0 | $5,824 | $1,508 | $4,316 | $43,455 |
| 19 (Sep) | 95.3 | $5,339 | $1,421 | $3,918 | $47,373 |
| 20 (Oct) | 86.7 | $4,853 | $1,334 | $3,520 | $50,893 |
| 21 (Nov) | 78.0 | $4,368 | $1,246 | $3,122 | $54,014 |
| 22 (Dec) | 65.0 | $3,640 | $1,115 | $2,525 | $56,539 |
| 23 (Jan) | 52.0 | $2,912 | $984 | $1,928 | $58,467 |
| 24 (Feb) | 60.7 | $3,397 | $1,072 | $2,326 | $60,793 |
Pricing
What customers typically pay, from large-sample cost data.
What customers pay
- Lawn mowing, typical price (national)$56 – $163Pending verificationSourceThumbtack — lawn mowing cost(opens in a new tab)Tier 2 · Industry report · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Thumbtack data updated June 24, 2026; low end $27, high end $367. No published sample size.
- Weekly mowing, lawn under an acre, with clippings removed (national average)$130Pending verificationSourceFixr — cost to maintain and mow the lawn(opens in a new tab)Tier 2 · Industry report · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Fixr, last updated January 31, 2025. No published sample size.
- Lawn care visit, average range (national)$75 – $200Pending verificationSourceFixr — cost to maintain and mow the lawn(opens in a new tab)Tier 2 · Industry report · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Fixr, last updated January 31, 2025. No published sample size.
- Leaf removal, per visit$150 – $550Pending verificationSourceFixr — cost to maintain and mow the lawn(opens in a new tab)Tier 2 · Industry report · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Fixr, last updated January 31, 2025. No published sample size.
- Weed control, per visit (requires DPR licensing in California)$65 – $150Pending verificationSourceFixr — cost to maintain and mow the lawn(opens in a new tab)Tier 2 · Industry report · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Fixr, last updated January 31, 2025. No published sample size.
- Fertilization, per application$200 – $500Pending verificationSourceFixr — cost to maintain and mow the lawn(opens in a new tab)Tier 2 · Industry report · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Fixr, last updated January 31, 2025. No published sample size.
What similar businesses take in
Context only, not a promise of what you will earn. Government figures cover every business in the industry; guide figures are rougher. Tap the source icon to see which is which. These are revenue, before costs.
- Average receipts per establishment, all employer firms, NAICS 561730 Landscaping Services (includes lawn care), 2022$1,010,711 a yearPending verificationSourceU.S. Census Bureau — 2022 Statistics of U.S. Businesses (SUSB), U.S. and states by 6-digit NAICS (receipts in $1,000)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Total receipts divided by the number of establishments (our arithmetic on the Census totals, rounded to the nearest dollar). An average, pulled up by larger firms. Context only, not a promise or prediction of your results.
- Average receipts per establishment, employer firms with fewer than 5 employees, NAICS 561730 Landscaping Services (includes lawn care), 2022$299,941 a yearPending verificationSourceU.S. Census Bureau — 2022 Statistics of U.S. Businesses (SUSB), U.S. and states by 6-digit NAICS (receipts in $1,000)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Total receipts divided by the number of establishments (our arithmetic on the Census totals, rounded to the nearest dollar). An average, pulled up by larger firms. Context only, not a promise or prediction of your results.
- Average receipts per nonemployer (solo, no payroll) business, NAICS 5617 Services to Buildings and Dwellings (all building-service trades combined), 2024$28,004 a yearPending verificationSourceU.S. Census Bureau — 2024 Nonemployer Statistics, U.S. file (receipts in $1,000)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Total receipts divided by the number of establishments (our arithmetic on the Census totals, rounded to the nearest dollar). An average, pulled up by larger firms. Context only, not a promise or prediction of your results.
Key Risks and How to Manage Them
Heat
Summer is the busiest season and the hottest. Long days behind a mower in inland California heat can cause heat exhaustion or heat stroke, especially past 55.
How to manage it: Start at dawn, stop for shade and water every hour, and schedule the hardest yards early. If you hire, California's heat illness rules require water, shade and a written plan.
Physical strain and injuries
Walking behind a mower for hours, loading trailers, vibration from trimmers and blowers, and slopes all take a toll. Mowers and trimmers can throw debris and cause cuts.
How to manage it: Use a self-propelled mower, wear eye and hearing protection and sturdy boots, keep blades guarded, and limit your daily route. A zero-turn reduces walking on large lawns.
Noise and equipment rules
Many cities limit the hours you can run loud equipment, and some restrict gas leaf blowers. California's small off-road engine rules are moving new equipment toward zero emissions, with zero-emission standards for new engines by model year 2028.
How to manage it: Check your city's noise and blower rules before you buy. Gas equipment you already own can still be used and repaired; consider battery tools for handheld equipment, and look for state or air-district incentives.
Seasonality
Grass grows slowly in winter, so mowing income drops. In colder parts of the state it can nearly stop.
How to manage it: Sell fall leaf cleanup and winter yard cleanups, offer year-round contracts at a flat monthly rate, and keep a cash reserve from summer.
Applying weed killer without a license
Weed killers are pesticides. Applying them for pay without the right DPR certificate, business license and county registration breaks state law, and a misapplication can damage lawns or harm people and pets.
How to manage it: Keep the business to mowing and cleanup at first. Add treatments only after earning the QAC-Q certificate, getting the Maintenance Gardener license and registering with your county.
Vehicle cost
You need a vehicle that can safely tow a loaded trailer. Buying a truck can cost far more than all the mowing equipment combined.
How to manage it: Start with a vehicle you already own and a light open trailer, or buy a used truck only once the route is paying for it.
Low barriers and price competition
Mowing is easy to start, so many local operators compete on price, and customers switch easily.
How to manage it: Compete on reliability: show up on the same day each week, communicate clearly, and keep routes tight so each stop is short to drive to.
Licensing by State
Requirements vary by state and local jurisdiction.
More states are coming.
A general guide only. Rules change and vary by city and county — confirm with your local government before you start.
City or county business license
Pending verificationRequired in most California cities. Check with the city where your business is based, and with any city that requires a license to work within its limits.
Verify with the CalGold (California business permits)(opens in a new tab)Mowing, edging and cleanup: no DPR license
Pending verificationPending verificationSourceCalifornia DPR — Maintenance Gardener Pest Control Business license packet (Rev. 7/24)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026DPR licensing applies to pest control. A business that only mows, edges, trims and cleans up does not need the pesticide certificate or business license below.
Verify with the California Department of Pesticide Regulation(opens in a new tab)Landscape installation work may need a CSLB license (C-27)
Pending verificationPending verificationSourcesCSLB — C-27 Landscaping Contractor classification(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026CSLB Industry Bulletin #24-07 — minor work exemption rises to $1,000 (AB 2622)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026The C-27 Landscaping Contractor classification covers constructing, maintaining, repairing and installing landscape systems. Unlicensed minor work is allowed only when the whole job (labor and materials) is under $1,000, needs no permit, and you have no employees on it. Ask CSLB before taking on planting, irrigation or hardscape jobs.
Verify with the Contractors State License Board (CSLB)(opens in a new tab)Weed treatment: Qualified Applicator Certificate, subcategory Q
Pending verificationPending verificationSourceCalifornia DPR — Qualified Applicator Certificate packet (Rev. 7/24)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Covers non-restricted pesticides used as a minor part of your mowing and garden maintenance work. The exam is the subcategory Q exam only. After the first renewal, you need eight hours of approved continuing education every two years; renewal is $140 per two-year cycle.
Verify with the California Department of Pesticide Regulation — licensing(opens in a new tab)Weed treatment: Maintenance Gardener Pest Control Business license
Pending verificationPending verificationSourceCalifornia DPR — Maintenance Gardener Pest Control Business license packet (Rev. 7/24)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Needed by a maintenance gardener who occasionally does pest control for hire. You must name a qualified person (QAC-Q or higher), show proof of liability insurance or a bond, and report pesticide use to the county every month. Renewal is $360 every two years.
Verify with the California Department of Pesticide Regulation — licensing(opens in a new tab)Weed treatment: register with each county agricultural commissioner
Pending verificationPending verificationSourceCalifornia DPR — Maintenance Gardener Pest Control Business license packet (Rev. 7/24)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Before any pesticide work, register your license with the agricultural commissioner in every county where you will work. Most counties charge an annual fee.
Verify with the California Department of Pesticide Regulation — licensing(opens in a new tab)A treatment-first business needs a full Pest Control Business license
Pending verificationPending verificationSourcesCalifornia DPR — Maintenance Gardener Pest Control Business license packet (Rev. 7/24)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026California DPR — Qualified Applicator Certificate packet (Rev. 7/24)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026The Maintenance Gardener license is only for pest control that is a minor part of gardening work. If fertilizer-and-weed-control treatments are the main business, as they are for several big lawn franchises, DPR requires a Pest Control Business license instead.
Verify with the California Department of Pesticide Regulation — licensing(opens in a new tab)Small off-road engine rules (CARB)
Pending verificationPending verificationSourceCalifornia Air Resources Board — Small Off-Road Engine regulations FAQ(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026These rules apply to sellers and manufacturers, not to equipment you already own. Stores may sell certified gas equipment, and gas models are certified for model years 2026 and 2027; new-engine standards reach zero by model year 2028. Local governments may add their own limits.
Verify with the California Air Resources Board — small off-road engines(opens in a new tab)Heat illness prevention (once you hire)
Pending verificationPending verificationSourceCal/OSHA — Title 8 §3395, Heat Illness Prevention in Outdoor Places of Employment(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Employers of outdoor workers must provide water, shade when it is over 80°F, and a heat illness prevention plan. Workers' compensation insurance is also required once you have employees.
Verify with the Cal/OSHA(opens in a new tab)
The Playbook
A step-by-step guide from setup to growth.
Phase 1
Setup
- Decide: mowing and cleanup only, or add licensed treatments later
- Choose your business structure and get a city business license
- Buy a commercial walk-behind mower, trimmer, edger and blower
- Get general liability insurance and check your auto coverage
- Set up scheduling and invoicing software
Phase 2
Launch
Included in the complete kit
Phase 3
Building a route
Included in the complete kit
Phase 4
Marketing
Included in the complete kit
Phase 5
Operations
Included in the complete kit
Phase 6
Off-season
Included in the complete kit
Phase 7
Hiring
Included in the complete kit
Phase 8
Growth and treatments
Included in the complete kit
Suppliers and Tools
Vendors independent operators use.
No supplier pays to be listed. If we ever earn a referral fee from a link, it will say “Affiliate link” right next to it.
Mowers and handheld equipment
Commercial walk-behind and zero-turn mowers, trimmers, edgers and blowers.
Trailers
Open utility trailers and enclosed cargo trailers.
Scheduling and invoicing
Route scheduling, quotes, invoicing and online payments.
The Kit Is Coming
Everything on this page is free. The downloadable kit (playbook, spreadsheets, templates) is in the works.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a franchise?
No. The Open Franchise is not a franchise and does not sell franchises. You start and own your business yourself, with no franchise fee, royalties, or territory rules. We sell guides and kits; that's all.
Do I need a license to mow lawns in California?
Not a state license for mowing, edging and cleanup, though your city will usually require a business license. Applying weed killer for pay is different: it needs a DPR applicator certificate, a Maintenance Gardener Pest Control Business license and county registration.
Are the big lawn care franchises mowing businesses?
Several are not. Weed Man, Lawn Doctor and Spring-Green focus on fertilizer, weed control and pest treatments. The Grounds Guys does offer mowing alongside landscaping. Compare a franchise against the kind of business you actually want to run.
Do I need to buy a truck?
Not if you already own a vehicle that can safely tow a small trailer. A truck is the largest possible cost in this business, so we list it separately rather than in the main budget.
Are these numbers guaranteed?
No. Every cost and price is an estimate from a cited source, shown as a range where possible, with the date we last checked it. Your costs and results will depend on your market and choices.
Figures last verified October 30, 2026. Every number links to its source. See all sources for this page.