APLA  /  SERVICES  /  LANDSCAPE

Landscape.

Hardscape, planting, drought-smart. Hardscape, irrigation, planting, and lighting tuned for SoCal climate. Drought-tolerant palettes, MWELO-compliant water budgeting.

Service no. 08
Typical timeline 3 – 10 weeks
Crew size 4 – 8
Service area Greater LA
Scope of work

What's included.

Hardscape, irrigation, planting, and lighting tuned for SoCal climate. Drought-tolerant palettes, MWELO-compliant water budgeting.

Every service is performed under APLA's General B license (#B-844201) with the appropriate specialty trade licenses on each crew. Workers' comp and $2M general liability on every project.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much does landscaping cost in Los Angeles?

Landscaping costs in Los Angeles vary widely by scope. A basic rear yard cleanup and replant runs $3,000 to $8,000. A full drought-tolerant landscape redesign with decomposed granite, native plants, irrigation, and lighting runs $15,000 to $45,000. Hardscape (concrete, pavers, retaining walls) adds $8,000 to $30,000 depending on scope. Post-construction landscape restoration after an ADU or addition project typically runs $5,000 to $15,000.

Do I need a permit for landscaping in Los Angeles?

Routine landscaping does not require a permit. However, grading changes over 1 cubic yard, retaining walls over 4 feet, new drainage systems, and irrigation systems that connect to the main line may require permits. In Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones (VHFHSZ), defensible space requirements must be met -- this is a CAL FIRE requirement, not a building permit. APLA evaluates permit requirements for landscape scope on every project.

What is drought-tolerant landscaping and is it required in Los Angeles?

Drought-tolerant landscaping uses plants with low water needs -- native California plants, succulents, ornamental grasses, and groundcovers that thrive with minimal irrigation. Los Angeles has water use restrictions and LADWP rebate programs that incentivize drought-tolerant replanting. New construction projects in LA are required to comply with the California Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance for projects over a certain irrigation area threshold. APLA designs landscaping that meets LA water use standards and qualifies for applicable rebates.

Does APLA do landscaping as part of a construction project?

Yes. APLA Construction includes landscape restoration and new landscaping as part of complete construction packages -- particularly for ADU and addition projects where the rear yard is disturbed during construction. We handle grading, drainage, hardscape, planting, and irrigation. CA Lic 1136359. Call (818) 818-4419.