Starting a mowing and leaf-cleanup side business
Pricing, quoting, routes and getting your first customers.
A small lawn and leaf business can run on a mower, a rake, a blower and a few neighbors who'd rather not do it themselves. The key is pricing and planning so each job is worth your time.
Know your number
Before you quote anyone, work out your costs: fuel, trash bags, equipment wear, and the time to drive between jobs. Decide what you need to earn per hour. Then price each job by size, not by guesswork.
Quote from a photo, confirm in person
- Ask for a few photos of the yard to give a rough range.
- Walk the yard before the first job: slopes, gates, dogs, hidden stumps, where leaves should go.
- Put the quote in writing with what's included (mow, trim, edge, bag, haul) and what costs extra.
Fall leaf cleanups
Leaf jobs can be bigger than they look. Price by the size of the yard and how many trees drop on it, and say whether you'll come back for a second round. Check your town's rules for leaf pickup or drop-off so you know where the leaves go.
Build a tight route
Customers on the same street or a few blocks apart make every hour count. When you finish a job, leave a door hanger or card at the houses next door.
Track jobs and money
- One sheet per customer: address, notes, price, dates.
- Give a receipt every time.
- Keep a simple income and expense log for taxes.
Safety and the basics
- Eye and ear protection, closed shoes, and never clear a jammed mower with the engine running.
- Ask your insurance agent whether your coverage applies to work on other people's property.
- Check whether your town needs any business registration for this kind of work.
Plan the year
At your last fall visit, hand customers a spring re-book card. If you also clear snow, offering it to your lawn customers is the easiest winter work you'll find.