St. Paul, MN · Updated
Landscaping Companies in St. Paul, MN
St. Paul yards, planned for a short season.
Typical St. Paul landscaping prices as of September 2026: sod installation $1,300–$3,800, a retaining wall $3,800–$10,200 and artificial turf $8,050–$10,150.
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- Updated October 2026Every price on this site shows its source and date.
Dated ranges
St. Paul landscaping (design/install) prices
St. Paul landscaping price bands
| Job | Low | Typical | High | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Retaining wall | $3,800 | $6,250 | $10,200 | lawnstarter.com, 2026-09 |
| Sod installation | $1,300 | $2,150 | $3,800 | angi.com, 2026-09 |
| Artificial turf installation | $8,050 | $9,000 | $10,150 | lawnstarter.com, 2026-09 |
Typical ranges from public data (lawnstarter.com, angi.com; September 2026), not a quote — your contractor's written contract sets the price.
estimated band, not a quote. Prices as of Sep 2026.
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Pick your job
Landscaping services in St. Paul
Tap a job to see how it usually runs in St. Paul and what it tends to cost.
- Artificial Turf Installation$8.1k–$10.2k
- Backyard Landscaping
- Front Yard Landscaping
- Irrigation Installation
- Landscape Lighting
- Outdoor Kitchen
- Pavers Installation
- Retaining Wall$3.8k–$10.2k
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Costs · FAQ · Get matched
The process
How matching works
No bidding war: we look for one St. Paul pro and tell you who before contact.
- Tell us the job. Use the 2-minute form.
- We find one matched St. Paul pro. We tell you who before your number goes to them, or tell you if we can't match you.
- The pro quotes; you decide. Free, no obligation. The pro pays us, not you.
Your timeline
How urgent is it?
Different St. Paul timelines need different first moves, from stopping damage to budgeting.
Right now
Standing water against the foundation in St. Paul — redirect it if you can, then tell us the job.
Tell us the jobNext few weeks
Ready for sod, beds or a path — send the size and hear one St. Paul name first.
Send the detailsPlanning
Saving for a patio or retaining wall — run the St. Paul estimator before anyone visits.
Run the numbers
Plain talk
When you might not need a pro
A homeowner in St. Paul may handle small landscaping tasks like planting flowers or trimming shrubs without a pro, as long as yard waste is disposed of properly at designated sites. For larger projects such as grading or installing hardscape features, hiring a professional is advisable to ensure compliance with local rules and proper installation techniques.
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One matched pro, not a list
We're lining up one St. Paul landscaping pro. We'll email you the name of the St. Paul pro we match you with within 1 business day. If we can't match you with a St. Paul pro, we'll email you that too. Your number goes to that pro only after you've heard their name from us.
Before your number goes to anyone, we tell you the pro's name so you can check them yourself. How matching works.
Coverage
Service area
St. Paul MN Landscape Guide takes requests from homeowners anywhere in St. Paul and matches each one with an independent local pro by ZIP code. St. Paul MN Landscape Guide has no office or crew in St. Paul; the pro you are matched with quotes and does the work.
FAQ
St. Paul landscaping (design/install) questions
The questions homeowners ask: The Twin Cities' median last spring
Does a landscaper need to be licensed in St. Paul?
There is no state or city licensing requirement for landscapers in St. Paul, but professionals must comply with local waste disposal rules and other applicable regulations. This means any qualified individual or company may provide landscaping services.
Should landscaping be capitalized in St. Paul?
Landscaping improvements are typically capitalized on a homeowner's property tax assessment if they add value to the home, such as new hardscaping or significant plantings. This depends on local appraisal practices and the nature of the work.
Do you need a permit for landscaping in St. Paul?
Yes: Saint Paul requires a grading permit for grading or filling a property, but not for minor earth work for gardens or landscape planters that does not change drainage patterns (When Is a Permit Required? (Saint Paul DSI handout)).
In depth
St. Paul landscaping (design/install): the full guide
Everything we found about landscaping (design/install) in St. Paul, section by section, with sources.
On this page · 16 sections
Why St. Paul, MN Landscape Guide
Local data notes for St. Paul
- 176 days The Twin Cities' median last spring freeze is April 23 and… ( NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 annual/seasonal normals, MSP )
How Much Does Landscaping Cost in St. Paul?
Landscaping costs in St. Paul depend on materials and local rules, like permit requirements for grading or fence height limits on corner lots. Material choices also affect long-term maintenance and replacement needs.
In Saint Paul, grading permits are required for significant earthwork but not for minor garden projects that don’t alter drainage (When Is a Permit Required? (Saint Paul DSI handout)). This means homeowners can install small raised beds or planters without a permit, saving time and fees. However, larger grading jobs may involve additional paperwork and costs, so it’s important to assess the scope of any earthwork before starting a project. This rule helps avoid unnecessary delays and expenses during landscaping efforts.
Fences on Saint Paul residential corner lots must not exceed 2 feet in height within a 10-foot sight triangle unless they are more than 80% open (Fence Requirements, Sec. 33.07 (Saint Paul DSI, rev. 02/03/2015)). This affects fence design choices, especially for properties near intersections. Homeowners may need to use lattice or transparent materials if they want a taller fence in these areas, which can influence both aesthetics and budget. Understanding this rule ensures compliance and avoids potential fines or requests for modifications later.
Saint Paul boulevard gardeners must request a Gopher State One Call utility locate 48 hours before digging (Boulevard Gardens and Boulevard Rain Gardens (Saint Paul Public Works)). This applies to any work on city boulevards, even for small planting projects. Failing to follow this rule could result in accidental damage to underground utilities and costly repairs. Homeowners should plan ahead and include this step in their project timeline to avoid delays and ensure safety during installation.
What is the cost of cheap landscapers near me?
Affordable landscapers may offer lower upfront costs, but their long-term value depends on materials used. For example, wood decks can last 20 years (NAHB/Bank of America Home Equity, Study of Life Expectancy of Home Components (Feb 2007), Table 1), while cheaper options might require more frequent repairs or replacements. Consider material durability and maintenance needs to understand the true cost over time.
What changes the price in St. Paul
Each local rule or condition below changes what to do, choose or pay for this job; sources included.
| Local rule or condition | What it changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Saint Paul requires a permit for every fence; residential fences may not exceed 6 feet 6 inches, and fences between the front property line and front setback line are capped at 4 feet | A fence taller than 4 feet near the front setback line or over 6 feet 6 inches overall requires a permit and must comply with height limits (source) | Fence Requirements, Sec. 33.07 (Saint Paul DSI, rev. 02/03/2015) |
| Saint Paul requires a building permit for retaining walls over 4 feet tall, measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, or of any height if supporting a surcharge | A retaining wall over 4 feet tall needs a building permit, regardless of whether it supports a surcharge (source) | When Is a Permit Required? (Saint Paul DSI handout) |
| Saint Paul requires a grading permit for grading or filling a property, but not for minor earth work for gardens or landscape planters that does not change drainage patterns | Grading or filling that changes drainage patterns requires a grading permit, but minor garden work does not (source) | When Is a Permit Required? (Saint Paul DSI handout) |
| Saint Paul's 2015 fence handout listed a permit fee of $37 for the first 200 lineal feet and $13 for each additional 100 lineal feet | A fence permit in Saint Paul costs $37 for the first 200 feet and $13 for each additional 100 feet (source) | Fence Requirements, Sec. 33.07 (Saint Paul DSI, rev. 02/03/2015) |
| For property in a Saint Paul Heritage Preservation District or Site, exterior work or repairs that need a building permit also need Heritage Preservation Commission approval | Exterior work in a Heritage Preservation District needs approval from the Heritage Preservation Commission, even if a building permit is not required (source) | When Is a Permit Required? (Saint Paul DSI handout) |
| On Saint Paul residential corner lots, no fence, wall or structure over 2 feet is allowed within a 10-foot sight triangle at the corner unless it is more than 80% open | On corner lots, any fence or structure over 2 feet tall within a 10-foot sight triangle must be more than 80% open (source) | Fence Requirements, Sec. 33.07 (Saint Paul DSI, rev. 02/03/2015) |
Illustrative example based on the public data cited on this page (October 2026), not a quote — your contractor's written contract sets the price.
Landscaping ideas for Saint Paul's heritage areas with small accessory sheds
Landscaping in Saint Paul's heritage areas with small accessory sheds involves considering local rules and historic design. Regulations on permits, fence heights, and boulevard plantings affect how landscaping is done.
In Saint Paul's Heritage Preservation Districts, any exterior work requiring a building permit also needs approval from the Heritage Preservation Commission (When Is a Permit Required? (Saint Paul DSI handout)). This includes adding small accessory sheds or making changes to existing structures. The Commission ensures that new additions match the historic character of the neighborhood and do not disrupt the visual integrity of the area. Homeowners should submit plans for review before starting any work.
For example, if you plan to add a new pathway or extend your driveway to accommodate an accessory shed, you must consult with local authorities for approval before proceeding. Zoning reviews help maintain neighborhood consistency and safety standards.
When landscaping along a historic boulevard, avoid planting tall shrubs or trees within these restricted zones to comply with local regulations and preserve the historic character of the area.
What are the options for landscaping in a historic district?
Landscaping in Saint Paul's historic districts includes boulevard gardens, low fences, and accessory sheds that meet height restrictions. These rules ensure compatibility with the district’s historic character.
Permits in St. Paul
| Item | Fee | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Saint Paul requires a building permit for retaining walls over 4 feet tall, measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, or of any height if supporting a surcharge. (When Is a Permit Required? (Saint Paul DSI handout)) | stpaulmnlandscapeguide.com | When Is a Permit Required? (Saint Paul DSI handout), 2023 |
| Saint Paul requires a grading permit for grading or filling a property, but not for minor earth work for gardens or landscape planters that does not change drainage patterns. (When Is a Permit Required? (Saint Paul DSI handout)) | stpaulmnlandscapeguide.com | When Is a Permit Required? (Saint Paul DSI handout), 2023 |
Permit rules from When Is a Permit Required? (Saint Paul DSI handout). Rules change — confirm with the St. Paul building/permit office before you start.
When Small Landscaping Fixes Work Best in St. Paul
If labor and materials exceed $500, even small changes may require a building permit (When Is a Permit Required? (Saint Paul DSI handout)). This rule applies to any project beyond normal maintenance, so keeping costs under this threshold can simplify the process.
Always check if your project involves structural elements like retaining walls or grading, which have stricter requirements (When Is a Permit Required? (Saint Paul DSI handout)).
Detached one-story sheds under 200 sq ft are exempt from building permits, but they must still comply with zoning setbacks and lot coverage rules (When Is a Permit Required? (Saint Paul DSI handout)). These exemptions can save time and money, but they apply only to specific conditions. Always ensure your project fits within these limits to avoid unexpected delays or fines.
Permit fees for fences provide another example of how small projects can be handled without extensive paperwork. Saint Paul charges $37 for the first 200 lineal feet and $13 for each additional 100 feet (Fence Requirements, Sec. 33.07 (Saint Paul DSI, rev. 02/03/2015)). This allows homeowners to manage minor fence installations independently, as long as they stay within these cost thresholds. For larger or more complex projects, permits ensure compliance with local codes and safety standards.
How to Start a Landscaping Company in St. Paul
To begin a landscaping business in Saint Paul, you must consider permit requirements for any work exceeding $500 in labor plus materials (When Is a Permit Required? (Saint Paul DSI handout)). This includes installations like astroturf or hardscaping.
The Department of Safety and Inspections handles permits and can be contacted at 375 Jackson Street, Suite 220 (When Is a Permit Required? (Saint Paul DSI handout)). If you plan to install fencing, you should also be aware that permit fees apply based on the length of the fence. These costs are important to factor in when budgeting for your projects.
Yard waste management is another key aspect. Saint Paul offers a subscription service for yard waste collection at $160 annually, including weekly pickups for up to eight bags or bundles (Yard Waste and Backyard Composting (Saint Paul Public Works)). For one-time pickups, the cost is $4.25 per bag or bundle with size and weight restrictions (Yard Waste and Backyard Composting (Saint Paul Public Works)). Understanding these rules ensures compliance and avoids unexpected expenses. Additionally, Ramsey County’s yard waste sites have seasonal hours that affect availability (Yard Waste collection sites (Ramsey County)).
Even exempt projects require careful planning. This longevity helps justify initial investment and reduces future maintenance costs.
What is the process for astroturf installation in St. Paul?
Astroturf installation in Saint Paul may require a permit if labor plus materials exceed $500 (When Is a Permit Required? (Saint Paul DSI handout)). Contact the Department of Safety and Inspections at 375 Jackson Street, Suite 220 for permit details (When Is a Permit Required? (Saint Paul DSI handout)). Yard waste from installation should be managed through Saint Paul’s subscription or one-time pickup services (Yard Waste and Backyard Composting (Saint Paul Public Works)).
Understanding Landscaping Services in St. Paul
Choosing a landscaping company involves considering their experience, materials used, and how they handle irrigation. Local factors like climate affect maintenance needs, and understanding service life helps in planning long-term care.
When selecting an affordable landscaping company, consider the materials they use for durability. Brick pavers and polyvinyl fencing are designed to last 100+ years and 'Lifetime' respectively, making them suitable for long-term projects (NAHB/Bank of America Home Equity, Study of Life Expectancy of Home Components (Feb 2007), Table 1) (NAHB/Bank of America Home Equity, Study of Life Expectancy of Home Components (Feb 2007), Table 1). Wood decks typically last about 20 years, depending on the location, so expect regular maintenance or replacement in drier areas (NAHB/Bank of America Home Equity, Study of Life Expectancy of Home Components (Feb 2007), Table 1). These factors influence both initial costs and future upkeep.
Proper irrigation practices are essential for reducing water waste. Fixed schedules can lead to overwatering, with up to 50% of irrigation water being wasted due to inefficient systems (www.epa.gov). Weather-based controllers adjust watering based on local conditions, which helps conserve resources and maintain healthy plants. This approach is especially useful in St. Paul’s climate, where rainfall and evapotranspiration rates vary.
Mulching techniques also impact landscape health. Applying 2–4 inches of organic mulch around trees, keeping it at least 3 inches from the root flare, is recommended (University of Vermont Extension, "Beware the mulch volcano"). Avoid volcano mulching, where mulch is piled against trunks, as this can lead to decay and pest infestations. Proper application ensures long-term benefits without damaging plant structures.
What are affordable landscaping companies near me?
Affordable options should offer services like hardscaping, irrigation installation, and mulching. Look for companies using durable materials such as brick pavers or polyvinyl fencing, which have long service lives (NAHB/Bank of America Home Equity, Study of Life Expectancy of Home Components (Feb 2007), Table 1) (NAHB/Bank of America Home Equity, Study of Life Expectancy of Home Components (Feb 2007), Table 1). Check their experience with local conditions and whether they use weather-based irrigation systems to save water.
How long common landscaping options last and what to know (general industry sources, not local rules).
| Option | Typical service life | What to know | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| In-ground sprinklers and valves | 20 years | NAHB lists sprinklers and valves at 20 years (source) | NAHB/Bank of America Home Equity, Study of Life Expectancy of Home Components (Feb 2007), Table 1 |
| Underground PVC irrigation piping | 25 years | NAHB lists underground PVC piping at 25 years (source) | NAHB/Bank of America Home Equity, Study of Life Expectancy of Home Components (Feb 2007), Table 1 |
| Irrigation controllers | 15 years | NAHB lists controllers at 15 years in areas not prone to lightning strikes (source) | NAHB/Bank of America Home Equity, Study of Life Expectancy of Home Components (Feb 2007), Table 1 |
| Brick pavers / clay paving | 100+ years | NAHB lists brick pavers at 100+ years and clay paving as 'Lifetime' (source) | NAHB/Bank of America Home Equity, Study of Life Expectancy of Home Components (Feb 2007), Table 1 |
| Wood decks | 20 years | NAHB lists wood decks at about 20 years: dry areas 20-25, South 10-15, North 20-30 (source) | NAHB/Bank of America Home Equity, Study of Life Expectancy of Home Components (Feb 2007), Table 1 |
Rebates and programs to check before you sign
- Capitol Region Watershed District Native Landscape Grants give property owners in its Focus Area one-time awards of up to $1,000, with applications accepted year-round. (Grants (Capitol Region Watershed District))
Checking a landscaping quote in St. Paul
- Quote must specify whether yard waste disposal follows Ramsey County guidelines
- Include details on materials used for plantings, such as native or drought-tolerant species
- Clarify if soil testing is recommended before applying phosphorus-based fertilizers (Minn. Stat. 18C.60 Phosphorus turf fertilizer use restrictions)
- Outline schedule of work that fits with Ramsey County yard waste site hours (Yard Waste collection sites (Ramsey County))
Your next steps for landscaping
- Contact a local landscaper to discuss proper disposal of yard waste at Ramsey County sites
- Check the seasonal operating hours for yard waste sites before planning disposal (Yard Waste collection sites (Ramsey County))
- Consider soil testing if planning to use phosphorus-based fertilizers on new turf (Minn. Stat. 18C.60 Phosphorus turf fertilizer use restrictions)
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