How Much Is Taxes For Landscaping In TN: Understanding Landscaping Taxes in Tennessee

In Tennessee, sales tax applies to most landscaping services when they involve the installation of tangible personal property (like sod, trees, or shrubs) onto real property. As of 2024, the state sales tax rate is 7%, with local jurisdictions adding an additional rate typically ranging from 1.5% to 2.75%. This means that the total sales tax for landscaping services generally falls between 8.5% and 9.75%, depending on your location in Tennessee.

However, the application of sales tax can vary based on the specific landscaping service provided. For example, design-only services or labor for maintenance (such as mowing, pruning, or leaf removal) are generally not taxable. In contrast, services involving materials that physically alter or improve a property—like planting, constructing patios, or building retaining walls—are taxable in most cases. Always request a detailed invoice from your landscaper that separates labor from materials to clarify tax charges and ensure compliance with Tennessee Department of Revenue guidelines.

As a designer, I know that understanding cost transparency is critical when planning any project. Incorporating the right tools, such as a floor planning tool, can help organize your landscape design, clarify material needs, and estimate potential taxes more precisely—ultimately ensuring your vision stays on budget and in compliance with state regulations.

Tips 1:

Check with your local county or city for up-to-date local tax rates, as these can change annually and impact the total tax amount on landscaping services.

FAQ

Q: Are landscaping design plans alone subject to sales tax in Tennessee?

A: No, if the service is strictly design consultation without installation or delivery of tangible property, it is typically not taxable.

Q: Do I pay sales tax on labor for landscaping maintenance in TN?

A: Maintenance labor such as mowing or trimming is generally not taxed, but installation services that alter real property are.

Q: How do I know if my landscaper correctly charges sales tax?

A: Ask for a detailed invoice showing separate charges for labor and materials, and confirm the tax rate matches your local jurisdiction.

Q: Are materials purchased for DIY landscaping taxable?

A: Yes, if you buy materials yourself for DIY landscaping, you pay sales tax at the point of sale based on your local rate.

Q: Does building a patio or retaining wall require charging sales tax on the service?

A: Yes, construction or installation of outdoor features like patios or retaining walls is subject to Tennessee sales tax on the total amount (materials plus labor).