LAWN CARE BUSINESS LAUNCH CHECKLIST
From https://www.brix.so/start/lawn-care (updated 2026-10-24)
Print it, tick it off, keep it in the truck.

DAY 1

[ ] Decide whether you'll mow only or also apply fertilizer and weed control (that decision sets your licensing)
[ ] Register the business, get a free EIN and open a separate checking account
[ ] Get general liability and tools and equipment coverage before you mow a client's lawn
[ ] Pick a tight service area of a few neighborhoods so your route stays short
[ ] Write a price sheet by lot size, with a minimum charge and a first-cut surcharge
[ ] Get a business phone number and put it on yard signs and door hangers
[ ] Buy hearing protection and safety glasses along with the mower

MONTH 3

[ ] Put every client on a weekly or biweekly route day and stop taking one-off mows far from the route
[ ] Time each stop and re-quote lawns that take longer than you priced
[ ] Offer spring and fall cleanups, aeration and leaf removal to your mowing clients
[ ] Ask for a Google review after the third mow, once the lawn looks its best
[ ] Set money aside every week for taxes and mower repairs
[ ] Text back missed calls between stops

YEAR 1

[ ] If you want to add fertilizer or weed control, get your state's commercial applicator license first
[ ] Sell season-long agreements for next year before this season ends
[ ] Plan off-season income: leaf cleanup, snow, holiday lighting or a planned break
[ ] Decide on a zero-turn or stand-on mower based on the acreage you actually mow
[ ] Add workers' comp before your first helper starts
[ ] Raise rates on new clients once your route days are full

Rules, fees and licensing vary by state, county and city. Check your state
agencies and local licensing office before you take paid work. This checklist
is not legal or tax advice.

Questions? Call or text (518) 588-1122, or book 15 minutes:
https://cal.com/ethanharris/15min