Florida Lawn and Ornamental License

[wooley99]

I'm considering whether it's worthwhile to get a FL lawn and ornamental license. I've been to the FL Dept of AG website and looked at the requirements. I just started a lawn business and I don't intend to branch out into pest control. I would however like to be able to spray round-up, oils and soaps, treat for fire ants, do weed pre-emergents and otherwise provide some additional services to clients. Since I don't have a spray license I've been referring people to two local full-service, squirt companies. Some think I'm nuts because I don't do fire ants or weed-and-feed. I don't like fines and I'd be the dude the State used to set an example so I pull weeds, slap ants and serve as an unpaid salesman for the bug company. What I'm hoping for is some opinions on whether or not it is worth getting a license to offer such a limited service and any practical advice on associated costs, guides or courses for the the test.

thanks,

[cpel2004]

Your local extension dept should offer the limited license. Down here it cost about $150 it may be cheaper in your area. The Squirt & Fert guys should at least give you 5-10% for the referral.

[Ric]

Your local extension dept should offer the limited license. Down here it cost about $150 it may be cheaper in your area. The Squirt & Fert guys should at least give you 5-10% for the referral.

wooley99

Customers want one stop shopping, Read the thread "How many of you guys left mowing for fert & squirt? "

Florida is the hardest state to get a commercial L&O license in. Because there are so many hoops to jump the License is valuable. As a start up you may want to re-think your plan and First work for a Spray company to get your own license before going into business yourself. However the if you don't want to take the time to get your license then NETWORKING is the key word for you. Get with a smaller one man Spray company and offer his services along with yours. True he will make more money than you per time spend on that customer. However He will cause your business to grow.

BTW also take cpel2004 advice and get your Limited License so you can spray Roundup. Weed control in beds and sidewalks is a must. You can also do IPM on shrubs, But no Fire Ants or Weed & Feed.