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2026 RANKINGS

Best Landscaping Contractors in Brentwood, CA

We compared 6 licensed landscaping contractors serving Brentwood based on credentials, insurance, experience, and customer reviews.

Updated April 2026

6
Total Contractors
15.3
Avg. Years Licensed
6
With Workers' Comp
Brentwood, California, located in eastern Contra Costa County, presents unique landscaping challenges and opportunities for homeowners. With its hot, dry summers averaging temperatures in the 90s and mild winters, the local Mediterranean climate demands drought-tolerant design and water-wise practices. The city's continued growth—transitioning from agricultural roots to one of the fastest-growing communities in the Bay Area—has created strong demand for professional landscaping services that can transform both new construction lots and established properties into functional outdoor living spaces.

Quality landscaping in Brentwood isn't just about curb appeal; it's an investment that significantly impacts property values in neighborhoods like Harvest Park, Shadow Lakes, and Deer Ridge. Professional contractors must navigate local building codes, Contra Costa County permit requirements, and increasingly strict water conservation regulations while creating landscapes that can withstand temperature extremes and seasonal conditions. Whether you're planning a complete backyard renovation with pool installation, implementing artificial turf to reduce water usage, or designing drought-resistant front yard landscaping, choosing the right contractor makes the difference between a successful project and costly problems.

This comprehensive guide examines six licensed landscaping contractors serving Brentwood in 2026. We've verified each company's California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) credentials, analyzed hundreds of customer reviews, and evaluated their experience, insurance coverage, and specializations. Our rankings reflect real data from actual projects completed in Brentwood and surrounding areas, providing you with the information needed to make an informed decision for your landscaping investment.

Quick Comparison

# Contractor Rating Reviews Years Insured
1 Pool & Landscape Development Inc 5 20 7 Yes
2 Groundworks 4.8 599 23 Yes
3 A & B Landscape Design & Maintenance Inc 4.6 11 18 Yes
4 Green Planet Landscape 4.8 12 16 Yes
5 DPG Outdoor Living 5 9 5 Yes
6 Candy's Landscape Inc 3.8 4 23 Yes

How We Ranked These Brentwood Landscaping Contractors

Our ranking methodology combines objective licensing data with comprehensive customer feedback analysis. We began by verifying each contractor's status with the California Contractors State License Board, confirming active licenses, workers' compensation insurance, and required bonds. All contractors featured maintain the mandatory $25,000 contractor bond and carry active workers' comp coverage, protecting homeowners from liability.

We analyzed review data from Google and Yelp, examining both aggregate ratings and individual review content. Rather than relying solely on star ratings, we evaluated review substance—looking for patterns in customer feedback about communication, project management, craftsmanship quality, and post-project support. We considered review volume as an indicator of business activity and customer base size, while also assessing review recency to ensure companies maintain consistent service quality.

Years of licensure served as a key factor, as contractors with longer track records have demonstrated sustained business practices and accumulated experience with diverse project types. We also considered specializations and service range, recognizing that some contractors excel in specific areas like pool installation or artificial turf, while others offer comprehensive landscape design and maintenance. This multi-factor approach ensures our rankings reflect both credential verification and real-world performance.

What to Look for in a Brentwood Landscaping Contractor

Selecting a landscaping contractor in Brentwood requires attention to both general credentials and local expertise. First, verify the contractor holds an active C-27 (Landscaping) license from the California Contractors State License Board. This license type is legally required for projects exceeding $500 in combined labor and materials. Confirm workers' compensation insurance and the required bond—this protects you if workers are injured on your property or if the contractor fails to complete work as agreed.

Brentwood's climate demands specific expertise. Look for contractors experienced with drought-tolerant plants, efficient irrigation systems, and water-wise landscaping practices that comply with Contra Costa County's water conservation requirements. The area's summer heat means materials must withstand sustained high temperatures—artificial turf, pavers, and hardscaping materials should be rated for heat resistance. Contractors should understand local soil conditions, which can include clay-heavy composition requiring proper drainage solutions.

Permit knowledge is essential. Significant landscape work in Brentwood often requires permits from the City of Brentwood Community Development Department, particularly for projects involving grading, retaining walls over certain heights, irrigation system installation, or outdoor structures. Experienced contractors will guide you through permit requirements and handle necessary applications. Request references from recent Brentwood projects, ask about warranty coverage for both labor and materials, and ensure the contractor provides detailed written contracts specifying project scope, timeline, payment schedule, and materials. Clear communication throughout the process—from initial consultation through project completion—separates exceptional contractors from merely adequate ones.

Detailed Contractor Reviews

#1

Pool & Landscape Development Inc

License #1045497 • Brentwood, CA

7 years licensed Workers' Comp ✓ $25,000 bond Active License ✓
5.0
20 reviews
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Pool & Landscape Development Inc brings seven years of licensed experience with a perfect 5-star rating across 20 Google reviews, representing the most recent customer feedback available. Owner Todd specializes in integrated pool and landscape design, making this contractor ideal for comprehensive outdoor living transformations. Recent 2026 reviews consistently praise Todd's on-site presence, with customers noting he was present most days during projects—a level of owner involvement that ensures quality control and responsive communication.

Customers highlight the company's strength in complete yard renovations, from drainage installation to pool remodeling, spa additions, and extensive hardscaping with pavers. Multiple reviews emphasize superior craftsmanship, attention to detail, and projects completed on time. One reviewer specifically mentioned interviewing four contractors before selecting Pool & Landscape Development based on responsiveness, professionalism, and ease of working with Todd. The company's design-build approach means clients work with a single team from concept through completion, streamlining the process and ensuring design intent translates to final execution. This contractor is best suited for homeowners planning major backyard transformations, particularly projects combining pool work with comprehensive landscaping.
#2

Groundworks

License #816062 • Brentwood, CA

23 years licensed Workers' Comp ✓ $25,000 bond Active License ✓
4.8
596 reviews
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Groundworks operates with 23 years of licensed experience and an impressive 4.8-star rating from 599 Google reviews—by far the largest review volume among Brentwood contractors. While the company name suggests traditional landscaping, recent reviews reveal specialization in concrete lifting, foundation repair, and poly fill applications for settling concrete. Customer reviews from October through December 2025 consistently mention crew members by name—Mark Papillion, Luis Gutierrez, Ken, Anthony, and Brian—indicating stable, trained teams.

Reviewers emphasize the company's expertise in foundation and concrete work, with multiple customers praising how quickly crews raise patios and address settling issues using polyurethane injection technology. Customers describe crews as professional, knowledgeable, friendly, and clean, with detailed explanations of each process step. The company's size and review volume suggest significant operational capacity and established systems for project management. Groundworks is best suited for homeowners dealing with foundation settlement, sinking concrete patios, walkways, or driveways, though their broader service range extends beyond traditional landscaping into structural stabilization work that often accompanies landscape projects.
#3

A & B Landscape Design & Maintenance Inc

License #905195 • Brentwood, CA

18 years licensed Workers' Comp ✓ $25,000 bond Active License ✓
5.0
3 reviews
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A & B Landscape Design & Maintenance Inc brings 18 years of licensed experience with a 4.6-star rating from 11 Google reviews. Owners Norma and Pedro lead this full-service landscape company, with reviews consistently mentioning both by name alongside crew members including Andres, Sotero, and Luis. Customers praise the company's design capabilities, particularly for transforming challenging yards—one reviewer specifically mentioned converting a space with heat and shade issues into their dream landscape.

The company demonstrates exceptional responsiveness, with one customer noting A & B submitted a quote within 24 hours of initial consultation while competing contractors required follow-up. Reviews highlight expertise in drought-resistant landscaping, artificial grass installation, outdoor tile patio work, and concrete finishing. The team completed one front yard transformation in just two days, converting a weed-infested space into a drought-resistant design that prompted neighbors to take photos. Multiple customers mention Pedro's professionalism and his consistent on-site presence as the owner. A & B is well-suited for homeowners seeking design-forward drought-tolerant landscapes, artificial turf installation, and contractors who provide strong follow-up support after project completion.
#4

Green Planet Landscape

License #941863 • Brentwood, CA

16 years licensed Workers' Comp ✓ $25,000 bond Active License ✓
4.8
12 reviews
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Green Planet Landscape has maintained an active license for 16 years and holds a 4.8-star rating from 12 Google reviews. Owner Alan handles design work while Angelo manages installation teams, providing clear points of contact throughout projects. Customer reviews emphasize the company's ability to transform problematic yards, with one homeowner describing their backyard as a "disaster" before Green Planet's intervention and another noting the transformation from "drab/awful to a backyard paradise."

The company specializes in artificial turf installation—specifically premium grades—and stamped colored concrete work for new construction lots and renovations. Reviewers consistently praise crew members for being respectful of property and working diligently. While most reviews are highly positive, a couple mention minor follow-up issues, suggesting homeowners should clearly document any warranty or correction items during final walkthroughs. Alan's design vision receives specific praise, with customers noting he listens to wishes and creates realistic plans. Green Planet is best suited for homeowners seeking artificial turf and decorative concrete installations, particularly those working with new construction lots requiring complete landscaping from bare dirt to finished outdoor space.
#5

DPG Outdoor Living

License #1073434 • Brentwood, CA

5 years licensed Workers' Comp ✓ $25,000 bond Active License ✓
5.0
9 reviews
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DPG Outdoor Living operates with five years of licensed experience and maintains a perfect 5-star rating from 9 Google reviews. Mike Mikolajcik serves as the primary contact, with reviews consistently mentioning his communication skills, attention to client preferences, and ability to translate ideas into workable designs. Team leader Susie also receives specific praise for responsiveness and efficiency throughout the construction process.

Customers emphasize projects completed on time and on budget—a combination that sets DPG apart in an industry where delays and cost overruns are common concerns. Reviews highlight the team's professionalism, detail orientation, and passion for their work, with one first-time homeowner specifically noting how DPG eased their nervousness about undertaking a major project. The company handles complete outdoor remodels including backyard garden transformations and paver installations. Review content suggests DPG excels at client communication and project management, with multiple customers describing the experience as "incredible" and "amazing" from start to finish. This contractor is ideal for homeowners who prioritize clear communication, realistic timelines, and working with a team that demonstrates genuine enthusiasm for creating exceptional outdoor living spaces.
#6

Candy's Landscape Inc

License #813477 • Brentwood, CA

23 years licensed Workers' Comp ✓ $25,000 bond Active License ✓
3.8
4 reviews
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Candy's Landscape Inc has operated with an active license for 23 years, making it one of the longest-established contractors in this comparison. The company holds a 3.8-star average from 4 Google reviews, the smallest sample size in this group, making it difficult to assess current service patterns. Available reviews span from 2014 to 2017, with no recent feedback to indicate current operations or service quality.

The limited review data shows mixed experiences. One strongly negative review from 2017 describes significant communication and service issues related to an HOA-established contract, while another from the same period offers high praise calling them "Best of the Best in the business." The wide gap between these experiences and the lack of recent customer feedback make it challenging to draw conclusions about current performance. The company does not appear to maintain an active website, and the dated review information suggests either a smaller operational footprint or reduced focus on residential customer acquisition compared to other contractors in this ranking. Homeowners considering Candy's Landscape should request recent references and examples of completed work to assess current capabilities and service levels.

How We Rank Contractors

Licensing & Insurance

Active CSLB license, workers' comp coverage, and bond amounts verified.

Experience

Years of licensed operation in California, demonstrating longevity.

Customer Reviews

Google & Yelp ratings weighted for consistent positive feedback over time.

Priority Score

Our algorithm combines all factors into a single score, updated regularly.

Our ranking methodology for Brentwood landscaping contractors combines regulatory compliance verification with customer satisfaction analysis to provide a comprehensive evaluation of each company. We began by accessing the California Contractors State License Board database to verify each contractor's license status, classification, issue date, and years of continuous licensure. We confirmed all contractors maintain C-27 (Landscaping Contractor) licenses in active, current status with no significant disciplinary actions or license restrictions.

We verified workers' compensation insurance coverage and bond amounts for each contractor, as these protections are critical for homeowner liability protection. California law requires contractors to maintain workers' comp coverage for employees and post a $25,000 contractor bond with the CSLB, which provides recourse for homeowners if contractors fail to complete work or violate contract terms. All featured contractors meet these minimum requirements.

For customer satisfaction analysis, we collected reviews from Google and Yelp platforms, recording aggregate ratings, total review counts, and review dates. We read individual reviews to identify patterns in customer feedback, noting recurring themes about communication quality, project management, craftsmanship, timeline adherence, and post-completion support. We gave greater weight to recent reviews (2024-2026) as indicators of current service quality, while also considering long-term patterns for established contractors with multi-year review histories.

We assessed specializations by analyzing the types of projects mentioned in reviews—pool installation, artificial turf, concrete work, drought-tolerant design, hardscaping, and complete yard renovations. This helps homeowners identify contractors whose expertise aligns with specific project needs. Years of licensure served as a proxy for experience and business stability, with longer-licensed contractors demonstrating sustained operations through various economic cycles. We did not accept paid placements or promotional consideration—all rankings reflect publicly available data and our independent analysis of contractor credentials and customer feedback.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does landscaping cost in Brentwood?
Landscaping costs in Brentwood vary significantly based on project scope, materials, and site conditions. Basic front yard renovations with drought-tolerant plants, irrigation, and mulch typically range from $8,000 to $15,000 for standard-sized lots. Artificial turf installation averages $12 to $18 per square foot installed, meaning a 1,000-square-foot backyard runs $12,000 to $18,000. Complete backyard transformations including hardscaping, pavers, pergolas, and extensive planting can range from $40,000 to $100,000 or more.

Pool and landscape combination projects represent the highest investment, often exceeding $100,000 for comprehensive designs with pool installation, decking, outdoor kitchens, and surrounding landscaping. Stamped concrete patios cost approximately $12 to $20 per square foot, while natural stone pavers range from $18 to $30 per square foot installed. Brentwood's clay-heavy soil may require additional drainage solutions, potentially adding $3,000 to $8,000 to projects. Always obtain multiple detailed quotes that itemize materials, labor, and any site preparation needs specific to your property's conditions.
Do I need a permit for landscaping work in Brentwood?
Many landscaping projects in Brentwood require permits from the City of Brentwood Community Development Department. Grading work that involves moving more than 50 cubic yards of soil requires a grading permit. Retaining walls exceeding four feet in height need building permits and engineered plans. Irrigation system installation or modifications may require permits to ensure compliance with water conservation regulations and backflow prevention requirements.

Outdoor structures including pergolas, gazebos, covered patios, and outdoor kitchens typically require building permits. Electrical work for landscape lighting must be permitted and inspected. Even some hardscaping projects may need permits depending on scope and location relative to property lines. Your contractor should identify permit requirements during the planning phase and either handle applications directly or guide you through the process. Working without required permits can result in fines, mandatory removal of unpermitted work, and complications when selling your property. Contact the Brentwood Community Development Department at (925) 516-5410 for specific permit requirements for your project.
What should I ask a landscaping contractor before hiring?
Start by verifying credentials: request the contractor's license number and confirm it's active with the CSLB. Ask for proof of workers' compensation insurance and general liability coverage, and request certificates naming you as additionally insured. Inquire about their experience with projects similar to yours—ask for photos of completed work and references from recent Brentwood clients you can contact.

Discuss the project timeline realistically, including how weather, permit processing, and material availability might affect scheduling. Request a detailed written estimate itemizing materials, labor, equipment, permits, and any potential additional costs. Ask who will supervise daily work, how many projects they manage simultaneously, and who your primary contact will be for questions or concerns. Clarify the payment schedule—avoid contractors demanding large upfront payments, as California law limits initial deposits to 10% or $1,000, whichever is less.

Inquire about warranties covering both materials and labor, including duration and what's specifically covered. Ask how they handle unforeseen issues like discovering underground utilities or poor soil conditions. Discuss their process for changes or additions during the project and how these affect pricing and timelines. Finally, ensure you'll receive a written contract specifying all work details, materials, timeline, payment terms, and warranty information before any work begins.
How do I verify a contractor's license in California?
Visit the California Contractors State License Board website at cslb.ca.gov and use the "License Search" tool on the homepage. You can search by license number, business name, or contractor name. The search results display the license status (active, inactive, or expired), license classification (C-27 for landscaping), issue date, and expiration date.

The detailed license record shows the business address, personnel listed on the license, workers' compensation insurance status, and bond information. Critically, review the "Complaints and Disciplinary Actions" section for any citations, license suspensions, or legal actions against the contractor. You can also call the CSLB's automated line at 800-321-CSLB (2752) to verify license status by phone. Always verify credentials directly rather than relying on copies provided by contractors, as these can be outdated or altered.
What's the best time of year for landscaping work in Brentwood?
Fall (October through November) and spring (March through May) offer ideal conditions for landscaping work in Brentwood. Fall temperatures moderate after summer's extreme heat, soil remains workable, and plants establish root systems before winter. Spring provides mild temperatures and occasional rainfall that helps new plantings establish before summer stress. These seasons also represent peak contractor availability before and after the busy summer construction period.

Winter (December through February) works well for hardscaping projects like paver installation, concrete work, and structure building, as cooler temperatures don't affect these materials negatively. However, occasional rain can delay work, and plant installation should wait until spring. Summer (June through September) presents challenges—extreme heat stresses new plantings, makes outdoor work physically demanding, and increases water requirements for establishment. If scheduling summer installation, ensure your irrigation system is operational and plan for intensive watering during the establishment period. Regardless of season, booking contractors 2-3 months in advance ensures better availability and allows time for permit processing and material ordering.
Selecting the right landscaping contractor in Brentwood requires balancing credential verification with customer feedback analysis and project-specific expertise. The six contractors featured in this guide all maintain active California licenses, required insurance coverage, and bonds that protect homeowners throughout the construction process. Each brings different strengths—from Pool & Landscape Development's integrated pool and landscape design to A & B Landscape Design & Maintenance's drought-resistant specialization, and from Groundworks' extensive experience to DPG Outdoor Living's reputation for on-time, on-budget delivery.

Your selection should align with your specific project needs, budget, and priorities. Homeowners planning major transformations combining pools with landscaping should prioritize contractors with demonstrated expertise in both areas. Those seeking drought-tolerant designs benefit from contractors who specialize in water-wise plantings and artificial turf. Communication style matters—if you value frequent updates and owner involvement, prioritize contractors whose reviews consistently mention accessibility and responsiveness. Review volume provides insight into operational scale, with contractors managing hundreds of reviews demonstrating established systems, while smaller operations may offer more personalized attention.

Use the comparison tools available on Compare Local Pros to request quotes from multiple contractors, comparing not just pricing but project approach, timeline estimates, and communication quality during the bidding process. A contractor's responsiveness during the quote phase often predicts their communication throughout the project. Verify all credentials independently, request references from recent Brentwood projects, and ensure you receive detailed written contracts before any work begins. Your landscaping investment significantly impacts your property's value and your outdoor living enjoyment—taking time to select the right contractor ensures results you'll appreciate for years to come.

Related Pages

Data Sources: License information from California CSLB. Ratings and reviews from Google. Rankings updated regularly.

This ranking is based on publicly available information and our proprietary scoring algorithm. We recommend getting multiple quotes and verifying all credentials directly before hiring.

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