St. Paul, MN · Updated
Landscaping: DIY or Hire a Pro?
Landscaping in St. Paul can be done by a homeowner or a professional, depending on the project's complexity and local rules; for instance, fence permits are required and have height limits (Fence Requirements, Sec. 33.07 (Saint Paul DSI, rev. 02/03/2015)).
Free to use in St. Paul. One matched pro, named up front.
A permit is needed for residential fences up to 6 feet 6 inches tall, with specific fees based on length (Fence Requirements, Sec. 33.07 (Saint Paul DSI, rev. 02/03/2015)).
Landscaping choices in Saint Paul for different home types
Landscaping in Saint Paul varies by home age and location due to specific rules, permit needs, and seasonal planting windows. Older homes may face restrictions, while newer ones have different considerations.
In Saint Paul’s Heritage Preservation Districts, any exterior work requiring a permit must also get approval from the Heritage Preservation Commission (When Is a Permit Required? (Saint Paul DSI handout)). This applies to landscaping changes like fences or hardscaping. For historic sites, fences need a site plan and elevation drawing for review (Fence Requirements, Sec. 33.07 (Saint Paul DSI, rev. 02/03/2015)), influencing how landscaping is designed near protected homes or properties with historical significance.
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. More rows: full table.
| Local rule or condition | What it changes | 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 | 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) |
How Saint Paul's climate influences landscaping projects and expenses
Saint Paul's climate and local rules shape how you plan and budget for landscaping. Knowing these details helps choose materials and timing that suit the area’s weather and regulations effectively.
In Saint Paul, the growing season runs from late April to early October, with a 176-day period between freezes (NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 annual/seasonal normals, MSP). This influences when you can plant and install irrigation systems. These rules help reduce water pollution and ensure proper nutrient use. Planning around the growing season and fertilizer rules makes landscaping more efficient and sustainable.
Local regulations also affect how you design your landscape. These rules ensure safety and maintain the city’s appearance. Using weather-based irrigation systems can cut water waste by up to 50% by adjusting based on local conditions (U.S. EPA WaterSense, WaterSense Labeled Controllers). This helps keep your landscape healthy while saving resources.
Get matched with one St. Paul pro
When You Can Do Landscaping Yourself in Saint Paul
In Saint Paul, some landscaping tasks require permits or follow seasonal rules. Knowing local guidelines helps you avoid delays and choose the right time for projects like planting trees or managing yard waste.
Related for St. Paul homeowners: Landscaping Company FAQ for Homeowners.
Saint Paul's Forestry department plants boulevard trees only during spring (April-June) and fall (October-November), so planting outside these periods may delay city-assisted tree work (Boulevard Trees (Saint Paul Parks & Recreation Forestry)). This timing affects when you can expect support for public tree projects in your neighborhood. If you're managing private trees, be aware of the emerald ash borer infestation first found here in 2009; untreated ash trees on private property remain a concern (Emerald Ash Borer (Saint Paul Forestry)).
Yard waste collection in Saint Paul runs from April 13 to November 13, with subscription services costing $160 annually for a 64-gallon cart and up to eight bags or bundles weekly (Yard Waste and Backyard Composting (Saint Paul Public Works)). One-time pickups are available at $4.25 per bag or bundle, but bundles must not exceed 40 pounds, 2 feet in diameter, or 3 feet in length. These limits affect how much waste can be removed without a subscription.
How long common landscaping options last and what to know (general industry sources, not local rules). More rows: full table.
| Option | Typical service life | What to know | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
Before you sign a landscaping quote in St. Paul
- Includes details on required permits and their associated fees based on fence height and length.
- Notes any restrictions on using herbicides or fertilizers without city approval for boulevard plantings (Boulevard Gardens and Boulevard Rain Gardens (Saint Paul Public Works)).
- Mentions the need to request a Gopher State One Call locate before digging near public boulevards.
DIY limits for landscaping in St. Paul
For larger jobs involving fences or public boulevards, a pro is advisable due to permit and compliance requirements. A repair-only quote from a professional can help confirm scope and costs.
Next steps for your landscaping project in St. Paul
- Check the City's fence height and setback rules before installing any new fencing (Fence Requirements, Sec. 33.07 (Saint Paul DSI, rev. 02/03/2015)).
Check a quote before you sign
Tick each item the written quote already covers, then ask about anything left unticked.
Landscaping in Saint Paul: answers to frequent questions
Does a landscaper need to be licensed in St. Paul?
A contractor's written quote should detail compliance with these regulations.
How to start a landscaping company in St. Paul?
Begin by researching local regulations, obtaining necessary licenses, and building a portfolio. Check with local authorities for business registration requirements.
Sources used here (9)
- Fence Requirements, Sec. 33.07 (Saint Paul DSI, rev. 02/03/2015)
- When Is a Permit Required? (Saint Paul DSI handout)
- NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 annual/seasonal normals, MSP
- U.S. EPA WaterSense, WaterSense Labeled Controllers
- Boulevard Trees (Saint Paul Parks & Recreation Forestry)
- Emerald Ash Borer (Saint Paul Forestry)
- Yard Waste and Backyard Composting (Saint Paul Public Works)
- source
- Boulevard Gardens and Boulevard Rain Gardens (Saint Paul Public Works)
Next step.
One short form, then we name the St. Paul pro before anyone gets in touch.
- No cost to you.
- Never a list of five.
- Pro named up front.
Get matched with one St. Paul pro
Before a pro contacts you, we give you their name so you can ask them for proof of insurance and business registration.