Landscape designers send a proposal or fee estimate after an initial consultation and site visit, before any design work begins. Clients usually compare your fee structure against other designers and against design-build firms that offer free design with an installation contract. A clear scope helps clients see what they are actually getting for the fee.
When to use estimates: Use estimates to provide project quotes and get client approval before starting work. Once approved, convert your estimate to an invoice with one click to collect payment.
Create an invoice for payment collection
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Invoice_1001_Client_2026-10-14.pdf
Spell out whether the fee covers a concept sketch, a scaled plan, a planting plan, or construction drawings, so the client does not expect more than they are buying.
Define which parts of the property are included, such as front yard only or backyard with side access, to prevent scope creep.
Two rounds is typical. Stating the limit and the hourly rate for extra rounds keeps changes from becoming free work.
Say whether you will measure the site or the client must provide a survey. A professional survey can cost extra and affects plan accuracy.
If your fee is a percentage or the design depends on a budget range, write the number down. Clients often underestimate what hardscape and installation cost.
List what is not included, such as engineering, stamped drawings, permit applications, irrigation design, lighting design, or on-site supervision.
Note how long each phase takes and what you need from the client, such as feedback within a set number of days, HOA guidelines, or utility locates.
| Service | Priced | Typical range |
|---|---|---|
| Initial consultation and site visit | flat fee | $100-350 |
| Hourly design work, revisions, and meetings | per hour | $60-150 |
| Site survey and measured base plan | flat fee | $300-1,200 |
| Concept design plan (residential) | flat fee | $500-2,500 |
| Planting plan with plant list | flat fee | $400-2,000 |
| Full master plan with construction drawings | flat fee | $2,000-7,500 |
| Design by area (small to mid-size residential) | per sq ft | $0.50-3.00 |
| Project oversight and plant selection trips | per hour | $60-125 |
Typical US ranges. Rates vary by region, experience, and job size.
Present options such as a consultation-only package, a concept and planting plan, and a full master plan with construction drawings. Clients can choose their level and you avoid a single take-it-or-leave-it number.
A small sloped yard with drainage problems and retaining walls takes more time than a large flat lawn. Adjust the fee for grading, existing structures, and permit requirements.
Many homeowners confuse design fees with the cost to build. Include a rough installation budget range so clients know the full picture before committing.
Quotes valid for 30 days protect you from changes in workload and rates. Plant and material prices also shift seasonally if you are sourcing them.
Many designers charge $100 to $350 for the first site visit and credit it toward the design fee if the client signs. This filters out casual inquiries and compensates you for travel and prep time.
Detailed enough that the client knows the phases, deliverables, revision limits, and exclusions. One page is usually enough for a residential project, with a separate agreement covering copyright and usage.
You can quote a fixed fee for the design itself, but note the budget assumption. If the client's budget turns out to be much higher or lower, state that the fee may be adjusted.
A deposit of 25 to 50 percent of the first phase or of the total design fee is common. Work begins when the signed quote and deposit are received.
Use the Landscape Design invoice template to bill the client, or convert this estimate once it's approved.
Landscape Design invoice template