Short-term landscaping work in Puget Sound

What the work involves

Landscaping work covers planting and bed prep, mulching, pruning and clearing, lawn work, hauling debris, simple hardscape such as paths and edging, and cleanup after storms. Many jobs are one-day efforts that need several people to finish before the weather turns.

In western Washington, wet winters and dry summers shape the calendar. Clearing and cleanup suit the shoulder seasons; planting and mulching cluster in spring and fall.

Typical short-term jobs

• Clear overgrown beds, blackberry or brush
• Mulch, edge and plant beds
• Haul debris and yard waste
• Build a path, edging or a small retaining feature with simple materials
• Seasonal yard clean-up

What employers should specify

• The area, slope, access and where debris can go
• Tools and equipment: who brings wheelbarrows, mowers, trimmers and trailers
• Where materials will be delivered
• Whether pets or children use the yard
• Whether any chemicals will be applied (see safety)
• Whether trees or large limbs are involved, which is specialist work

What workers should list in their profile

• The tasks you do: planting, clearing, mulching, hauling, hardscape
• Equipment you bring and whether you have a truck or trailer
• Comfort with heavy lifting and uneven ground
• Any licenses you hold for related work
• Your ZIP code and how far you will travel

Safety and licensing notes

• Digging: Washington requires notifying the one-call center before excavation. Call 811 (call811.com) before any digging so buried utilities are marked.
• Applying pesticides for hire is regulated in Washington. Check with the Washington State Department of Agriculture before anyone applies chemicals.
• Tree removal and work near power lines are specialist jobs. Post them as such, or not at all.

Questions about landscaping on GapCrew