Columbus is a low-moderate cost-of-living market — pricing guide and permit rules below.
Columbus landscaping rates: $80-$140/hr. Columbus's freeze-thaw cycles stress systems. Always get 3 written quotes and verify OH licensing at Ohio CILB (com.ohio.gov). Sales tax on materials: 7.25%.
Columbus requires permits when work exceeds $500 or involves full system replacement. Your licensed contractor pulls the permit — if they ask you to pull it, that's a red flag.