How To Hire A Landscape Company in Calgary
What to evaluate before committing to a landscape construction project
Landscaping companies in Calgary are largely unregulated and vary significantly in construction knowledge, practical experience, and their ability to execute complex residential landscape projects. As a result, homeowners are often required to evaluate contractors carefully to avoid costly mistakes during planning and construction.
This lack of regulation led to the development of the Canadian Landscape Standard, a reference guide outlining best practices for professional landscape construction. While adherence to these standards is voluntary, reputable landscaping companies adopt them to improve quality, consistency, and long-term project performance.
Without a governing body overseeing residential landscaping in Calgary, it remains the homeowner’s responsibility to identify qualified contractors and distinguish professional construction firms from surface installers. Informed decision making at this stage has a direct impact on project outcomes.
At Calgary Landscaping, we prioritize training, technical skill development, and business accountability. We are committed to advancing industry standards and believe homeowners should be equipped with clear evaluation criteria when selecting a landscape contractor.
The following considerations outline what to look for before committing to a landscaping company in Calgary.
The must haves for landscaping companies in Calgary Alberta
With more than two decades of experience in the landscape construction industry, we have found that one of the most commonly overlooked steps is verifying contractor licensing. Any landscaping contractor visiting your property should hold a valid municipal business license issued by the City of Calgary or the applicable local jurisdiction.
Municipal licenses are issued annually and confirm that a contractor is legally permitted to operate in your area. While a license alone does not guarantee quality workmanship, it is a basic requirement and an essential first step when evaluating landscaping companies.
In addition to business licensing, contractors may also be required to comply with City of Calgary Landscape Standards and regional development guidelines depending on project scope and location.
Business Licences
City of Calgary – BL 159968
Town of Okotoks – BL 126305
M.D. Foothills – 14L/1059
Town of Canmore – NOR-05742
The Best Landscape Companies Plan For Safety
Landscape construction involves inherent risks associated with heavy materials, powered equipment, excavation, and site specific hazards. If a landscaping contractor does not carry valid WCB coverage, the homeowner may be held financially responsible for injuries occurring on their property.
It is both your right as a homeowner and the contractor’s responsibility to carry Workers’ Compensation Board coverage. This applies to projects of all sizes, including residential landscaping, hardscaping, and garden construction.
Beyond insurance coverage, professional landscaping companies should operate under a documented safety program addressing site hazard assessments, WHMIS training, first aid certification, personal protective equipment, and safe work practices.
At Calgary Landscaping, we believe ongoing training and safety accountability are critical to job site performance and risk management. These policies are actively implemented on all projects, not treated as administrative formalities.
Safety Information
WCB #509473-8
Member and CSTS 2020 Certified
Alberta Construction Safety Association
Provincial License And Bonding
Provincial licensing and bonding provide financial protection for homeowners when deposits or prepaid construction payments are involved. Any contractor soliciting, negotiating, or completing prepaid landscaping contracts in Alberta must hold a valid provincial license supported by a general surety bond.
In compliance with the Alberta Fair Trading Act and Government of Alberta requirements, contractors must post a $25,000 General Surety Bond to secure a provincial prepaid contractor licence.
Prepaid contracts apply to residential construction services including landscaping, repairs, alterations, and property improvements. If a company cannot obtain or maintain provincial licensing and bonding, homeowners should proceed with caution.
Provincial Licence Number – 332786
You are who you associate with
A landscaping company’s affiliations, suppliers, certifications, and customer testimonials offer valuable insight into how they conduct business. Established contractors with strong professional relationships typically maintain higher construction standards and project accountability.
Homeowners should confirm who will be present on site during construction. Some companies secure contracts and outsource the work to subcontractors or temporary labour. It is important to verify that the individual involved in planning and design will also be responsible for overseeing construction execution.
Always review completed project portfolios and independent customer testimonials. Reviewing real work performed by the contractor helps validate experience, consistency, and construction quality.
Get it in writing
We have been professionally Landscaping Calgary for over 2 decades
Calgary Landscaping believes in honesty and integrity in the marketplace. Our work and references speak for themselves.
Before construction begins, your landscaping contractor is responsible for providing a detailed written estimate and contract outlining the full scope of work. While contracts can be lengthy, they establish expectations, responsibilities, and protections for both parties.
A proper contract should include itemized work descriptions, payment schedules, buyer cancellation rights, and detailed drawings for larger projects. Never provide upfront payments unless provincial bonding is verified.
Upon completion, homeowners should receive warranty documentation and long-term care guidance for their newly constructed landscape.
Many of these risks are covered in our landscape construction pitfalls guide 7 Common and Costly Landscape Pitfalls To Avoid in Calgary
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