| Quick facts | Answer |
|---|---|
| Cost range | $4 to $12 per sq ft; $300 to $4,000 for most projects |
| Time | Small jobs days; new house landscaping several weeks |
| Who's qualified | Ask the pro for proof of licence and insurance; NJ irrigation work requires a certified contractor |
Hackensack, NJ: what's different here
Hackensack is the Bergen County seat, with an estimated population of 48,142 and a density of about 11,514 people per square mile. Many homes sit on older, smaller lots, so yard space is limited and layouts are compact. Winters average highs near 38°F and lows near 26°F, while summers reach about 84°F, and annual rainfall is 45.11 inches, so plant choice and drainage matter. Hackensack is about 14 miles, roughly 21 minutes by car, from North Jersey via main highway.
What does irrigation work in New Jersey require?
New Jersey requires a business permit for landscape irrigation work. The business must employ a certified landscape irrigation contractor to obtain that permit. Certification requires at least 3 years of experience, or approved education that can substitute for up to 1 year.
Do I need a permit for grading or regrading my yard?
Landscape construction and grading work in New Jersey may trigger state permitting under NJDEP rules. Hackensack's building department handles construction permit inspections that are part of the approval path. Regrading a yard usually costs $500 to $1,000 for small lawns or $1,000 to $5,000 for an average backyard, and most grading projects take 3 days to 1 week.
How much does a landscape designer or architect cost?
Hiring a landscape designer typically costs $50 to $150 per hour. A landscape architect may charge $1,000 to $6,000 for design plans, or 5% to 20% of total project cost when supervising installation. Routine planting and yard work is usually handled by landscapers or gardeners instead.
How much does ongoing landscape maintenance cost?
Landscape maintenance commonly costs $100 to $200 per month on average. Lawn mowing visits are often $30 to $85 for a 1/8 to 1/4 acre yard. Gardener service is often $35 to $65 per hour or $75 to $400 per month for ongoing work.
What to do next
- Ask each pro for proof of liability and workers' compensation insurance before work starts.
- For irrigation work, confirm the business holds a New Jersey irrigation permit and employs a certified landscape irrigation contractor.
- Ask the quote to state the price per square foot or hourly rate, crew size, and expected number of days.
- Check with Hackensack's building department whether grading or construction work needs a permit before scheduling.
- Call (551) 290-5640 or email quote@njlandscapepros.com for a free quote from an independent, insured local landscaper.
NJ Landscape Pros is a free referral service: an independent contractor does the work and may pay us a referral fee. You never pay us anything.
