Owning and operating a landscaping business has many benefits. The freedom of having control over your schedule and the pride of knowing that you created something using your skills are just a couple of these benefits. Here in the State of Illinois, there are rules and regulations put in place to protect the consumer and ensure that the landscaping business is held to a predetermined set of standards. If you are considering starting a landscaping business in Illinois, here are some things you should know.
Define your business
The first thing you need to consider is the type of landscaping services you will be offering. Under the Illinois Landscape Architect Act of 1989, if you provide any type of landscape planning and architectural services, you must have a licensed landscape architect employed on your staff. Becoming licensed requires passing a state examination and providing proof of education in the field of landscape architecture.
If you provide general landscape maintenance, the State of Illinois does not require a specific licensing; however some local communities require all landscaping businesses to obtain licensure if they work within their local jurisdiction. Additionally, they may require the business to provide proof of liability insurance as well as being bonded. If you are unsure about the requirements for the community in which your business operates, contact the city or county clerk to get additional input.
Tax registrations
Any business operating within Illinois that provides goods or services for sale must apply for the appropriate tax collection registrations. There are different tax rules depending upon if you sell products, provide a service or offer a combination of both. Be sure to talk to a tax professional if you are unsure of what is required for your business processes.
Employees
Hiring employees adds another level of legal complexities. If you have employees on your payroll, the first step is to apply for a Federal Employer Identification Number. In addition, the State of Illinois requires businesses who will hire employees to register with the Department of Employement Security (IDES) within 30 days of the start of the business. Your company is also required to file quarterly returns with the IDES and pay unemployment contributions.
At Lafarge Fox River Decorative Stone, we are fortunate provide high quality landscaping products to competent landscape contractors across the State of Illinois.
