Landscaping in Madison: Your Questions Answered

Madison landscaping rates: $90-$170/hr. Always get 3 written quotes and verify WI licensing at Wisconsin DSPS (dsps.wi.gov). Sales tax on materials: 5.5%.

• humid-continental climate
• Moderate-high cost of living
• Peak: peak season
• Verify: Wisconsin DSPS (dsps.wi.gov)

Top Madison landscaping contractors hold an active WI license (verify at Wisconsin DSPS (dsps.wi.gov)), carry 4.5+ Google ratings with 50+ reviews, show proof of liability and workers' comp, and have 5+ years serving Madison.

• License: Wisconsin DSPS (dsps.wi.gov)
• Insurance proof required
• 5+ years local experience

Standard landscaping in Madison takes 1-3 days; emergency response runs 2-4 hours. During peak season expect 1-2 extra weeks. Madison permits clear in 3-7 business days.

• peak season extends scheduling
• Permits: 3-7 days

Madison requires permits when work exceeds $1,000 or involves full system replacement. Your licensed contractor pulls the permit — if they ask you to pull it, that's a red flag.

• WI threshold: $1,000
• Tax: 5.5%

In Madison: (1) get 3 written quotes, (2) verify WI license at Wisconsin DSPS (dsps.wi.gov), (3) confirm insurance, (4) read recent local reviews, (5) never pay more than 30% upfront.

• License: Wisconsin DSPS (dsps.wi.gov)
• Max 30% deposit