San Jose Landscape Contractors: Design and Construction
- Since 1987
- Yelp 4.6 (46 reviews)
- Google 5.0 (8 reviews)
- Fully insured
In brief
Landscape Associates of CA, founded in 1987, installs pavers, artificial turf and sod, retaining walls, drainage, irrigation, planting and lighting in San Jose. Our published range for most San Jose projects is $5,000 to $50,000. We are fully insured. Call (408) 207-5545 for a free on-site estimate.
Updated October 2026
What we build in San Jose yards
| Project | What it involves here | Our published range |
|---|---|---|
| San Jose paver patio or driveway | Paving, borders and a base suited to the load | Patios: about $15 to $30 per sq ft installed; driveway priced separately |
| San Jose artificial turf or sod | Ground preparation, drainage and lawn edges | Artificial turf: $8 to $15 per sq ft; sod priced separately |
| San Jose retaining wall | Soil support, footing and drainage behind the wall | About $50 to $100 per square face foot |
| San Jose drainage fix | Standing-water problems and runoff routes | $1,500 to $8,000 |
| San Jose irrigation | Water delivery for lawn and planted beds | System: $3,000 to $10,000 |
| San Jose planting and garden beds | Plant selection, bed preparation and installation | From about $2,000 to $5,000 |
| San Jose landscape lighting | Lights for paths, planting and seating areas | $2,000 to $6,000 |
| San Jose full backyard renovation | Pavers, walls, turf and lighting planned together | $25,000 to $75,000+ |
These figures are a pricing guide; we provide a quote for your yard after the site visit. Pavers carry a lifetime warranty on materials and workmanship; artificial turf carries a 15-year warranty. Irrigation, drainage and lighting each carry 2 years, and plants up to 1 year. The San Jose project budget guide can help you decide which work to include.
Where we work in San Jose
Hillside lots in Almaden Valley and Evergreen put slope and water movement at the center of the plan. The soil a wall would hold back and the route water would take help determine where a wall or paved sitting area should go.
Willow Glen and Cambrian Park have flat clay lots where winter rain can leave standing water. A new lawn surface alone will not solve a low spot that has nowhere to drain.
Rose Garden and West San Jose also have clay lots with slow drainage. How paving, lawn and beds meet matters when choosing the finished surface.
Newer tracts in Berryessa and North San Jose often start with builder-grade yards or bare dirt behind the house. On a small lot, the layout needs room for access as well as a patio, lawn and planting.
Narrow side yards in South San Jose and Downtown mean the estimate needs to account for access. Gate openings and street parking matter when planning how to bring in materials and carry demolition debris out.
Campbell, Cupertino and Sunnyvale are nearby. For a property beyond San Jose, see our pages for landscaping in Saratoga, Los Gatos yard projects, landscaping in Los Altos and Monte Sereno landscape work.
Why San Jose clay needs drainage before pavers or turf
San Jose clay drains slowly, so standing water in winter needs attention before new paving or turf goes down. The ground needs to slope away from the house, with a route for water to drain. French drains can collect water; dry wells are an option only where allowed and suitable for the soil. The water a drain collects still needs somewhere to go.
Pavers can settle over a wet, unstable base, and artificial turf can hold puddles when the ground beneath cannot drain. Our published San Jose drainage-correction range is $1,500 to $8,000. Our guide to drainage repairs for a soggy San Jose yard explains what to consider before investing in new paving or turf.
San Jose permits for walls, fences, paving and tree removal
Retaining walls: when a San Jose wall needs a permit
For single-family and duplex lots, the City of San Jose requires building and Planning permits for a retaining wall higher than 2 ft from existing grade. A wall supporting a surcharge, or measuring 4 ft or more from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, also requires a Public Works grading permit. Surcharges include vehicle loads, structure footings on retained soil and a back slope of 3:1 or steeper. See the City wall requirements (checked October 2026).
Fences: height limits without a permit
The City of San Jose allows fences without a permit up to 3 ft in front and 7 ft at the side and rear on single-family and duplex lots. Corner lots have a 3-ft limit on any street side; higher fences need building and Planning permits. Read the City fence requirements (checked October 2026).
Driveways and sidewalks: separate approvals
For single-family lots, the City of San Jose exempts driveways and walkways no more than 30 in above adjacent grade from building permits, provided they do not cross a basement or story below and are not an ADA route. See the City building-permit exemptions (checked October 2026).
A new, expanded or relocated San Jose driveway needs Public Works clearance or a permit. Curb, apron and sidewalk work needs a Transportation Department permit, and SJMC 20.30.440 bars paving over most of the front yard. See the City driveway and sidewalk guidance (checked October 2026).
Tree removal: when a permit is needed
The City of San Jose requires a removal permit for an ordinance-size tree, even if dead: 38 in circumference at 4.5 ft, about 12 in diameter. Add the trunks for a multi-trunk tree. Heritage and street trees also require permits; unpermitted heritage-tree pruning or removal can bring fines up to $30,000 per tree, and street-tree violations up to $15,000 per tree. Consult the City tree-removal rules (checked October 2026).
Permit requirements are part of planning a wall or a new driveway for your San Jose lot.
Watering rules and the Valley Water rebate in San Jose
For San Jose properties using Valley Water-supplied potable water, Ordinance 23-02 prohibits overhead irrigation from 9 AM to 6 PM and more than incidental runoff. Watering is prohibited during or within 48 hours after 0.25 in of rain. See Valley Water conservation rules (checked October 2026).
Valley Water's lawn-conversion rebate pays $2 per sq ft, with a combined $3,000 lifetime residential-site cap across rebate types. Funding runs to June 30, 2027, or until funds run out. Eligible San Jose Municipal Water customers, single-family or up to 4 units, get $3 per sq ft for the first 1,000 sq ft, then $2, with a combined $4,000 lifetime cap per residential site across rebate types. Municipal Water serves only part of San Jose: use the retailer lookup linked from the Valley Water rebate page (checked October 2026).
Apply and receive Valley Water's Notice to Proceed before starting work or purchasing equipment. Artificial turf receives no rebate; qualifying lawn conversion requires at least 75 sq ft and 50% coverage with qualifying plants. Existing lawn must remain for the pre-inspection. See the lawn-conversion conditions (checked October 2026), compare San Jose lawn replacement choices, and read our San Jose drought-tolerant planting guide.
What landscaping costs in San Jose
Our published range for most San Jose work is $5,000 to $50,000; a full backyard renovation is $25,000 to $75,000+. A worked example from our installed paver range: a 300 sq ft patio is 300 x $15 to $30 per sq ft, so $4,500 to $9,000 for the patio alone.
- Demolition and haul-away: what needs to be removed before construction begins.
- Grading and soil: low spots, slopes and clay preparation.
- Access: side-yard width, gate openings and routes for materials.
- Drainage: collection points and where runoff can discharge.
- Pavers: the selected material, cuts, borders and laying pattern.
- Retaining walls: wall height, support and drainage behind the face.
- Irrigation: repairing existing equipment versus replacing the system.
- Finishing details: edging, lights and plant choices.
The San Jose landscaping cost breakdown can help you compare estimates for the same work. The itemized quote should also include any San Jose concrete work or outdoor kitchen planned for your San Jose yard so it covers the whole project.
Landscape contractors in San Jose, CA: how to compare quotes
The useful comparison between landscapers in San Jose, CA is what sits behind the number: an itemized quote, proof of insurance, the warranty on each part of the work in writing, and dated reviews. Landscape Associates of CA, founded in 1987, is fully insured, itemizes every project, and warrants pavers for life on materials and workmanship, artificial turf for 15 years and irrigation, lighting and drainage for 2 years.
Landscape design in San Jose is part of the same visit: David lays out the yard with you at the free on-site estimate, deciding where the patio goes, what stays and which areas are planted. If you already have an architect's or designer's plans, we build from those. Landscaping services in San Jose that follow from that layout are itemized on one quote: pavers, walls, turf or sod, irrigation, drainage, planting and lighting.
How a San Jose project runs
Arrange the site visit
We reply within 24 hours to arrange a free on-site estimate in San Jose. Access, drainage, your budget and the parts of the yard you want to keep are topics for the San Jose site visit.
Review the itemized quote
San Jose projects are priced by the job, with everything itemized. The itemized quote lets you check the proposed paving, planting and groundwork against what you asked for.
Discuss the start date and permits
Before construction is agreed, the start date, any required approvals and responsibility for obtaining permits need to be clear.
Construction and how long it takes
Our published San Jose timelines are 3 to 7 days for most paver patios and 2 to 6 weeks for full renovations. The schedule depends on the work included.
Walk through the finished yard
The final walkthrough is a chance to review the completed paving, lawn and planting, along with their care. We offer ongoing maintenance as well as installation.
San Jose reviews of working with David
David Muhoberac founded Landscape Associates of CA in 1987, and the company is fully insured. These San Jose reviews describe hiring us again and remodeling entire yards.
“We liked the results so much we had them redo the front yard a few months later.” Paul P., San Jose, CA, Jul 2024.
“He kept in touch through every step and his crew was respectful of my property.” Janis S., San Jose, CA, Oct 2023.
Ready to discuss your San Jose yard? Call or text (408) 207-5545 with the work you have in mind. We reply within 24 hours and offer a free on-site estimate.
Before and After
What Our Clients Are Saying
Reviews from Yelp and Google, with the reviewer's city and date
Big job: stump removal, full irrigation replacement, new sod, paver driveway, retaining walls, and lighting. It turned out more beautiful than we imagined. We liked the results so much we had them redo the front yard a few months later.
San Jose, CA
This was our second time using Landscape Associates, at a different property. David, Obed, and the crew added new paver stones, a planter, and expanded our irrigation. They even took care of drainage issues the original home builders had left behind.
San Jose, CA
Landscape Associates did a full remodel of my front and back yards. David understood exactly what I had in mind, delivered the yard I hoped for, and somehow made it even better. He kept in touch through every step and his crew was respectful of my property.
San Jose, CA
Great communication throughout and they walked us through every step. The paver patio and driveway are flawlessly integrated. We would absolutely hire them again. In fact I was already texting David about redoing the entire front yard.
San Jose, CA
We are very happy with the results. David installed a new front lawn and side yard plantings and the whole project wrapped up in a week. We were impressed that they renewed our entire irrigation system as part of the job. Would recommend to anyone in the area.
San Jose, CA
David and Obed were great from start to finish. They gave us solid advice on design choices and made sure our vision drove the project. They took a backyard full of dirt and turned it into our family's dream outdoor space. Highly recommend!
San Francisco, CA
David's team did a beautiful job transforming my yard into a gorgeous patio. They worked closely with me to bring my design to life and went the extra mile to make sure everything was right. Honest work, no hidden costs, no surprises.
Cupertino, CA
I cannot recommend this company enough. David turned my backyard, basically a giant hill of dirt and weeds, into a gorgeous oasis of fruit trees, plants, flowers, and retaining walls. Working with him was a real pleasure and the pricing was very fair.
San Francisco, CA
If I could give more stars I would. Workers showed up every single day at 8:30am sharp. David was always easy to reach and when I had changes mid-project, they accommodated every one without complaint. The customer service really set them apart.
Milpitas, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Call (408) 207-5545What budget should I set for landscaping a San Jose property?
Our published San Jose project range is $5,000 to $50,000 for most work. Full backyard renovations have a separate guide range of $25,000 to $75,000+. Replacing planting beds is a different job from redoing paving, drainage and walls. Your free on-site estimate includes an itemized price for the project.
What would a 300 sq ft paver patio cost in San Jose?
Using our published San Jose installed patio rate, the arithmetic is 300 sq ft x $15 = $4,500 and 300 sq ft x $30 = $9,000. That gives a guide range of $4,500 to $9,000. Access, demolition, drainage and your chosen pavers affect the actual quote.
Which approvals apply to a San Jose retaining wall?
On single-family and duplex lots, San Jose requires building and Planning permits above 2 ft measured from existing grade. A wall supporting a surcharge, or reaching 4 ft from footing bottom to top, also requires a Public Works grading permit. Read the City of San Jose wall permit guidance (checked October 2026) before planning the height.
Do driveway expansions or relocations need San Jose approval?
Yes. San Jose requires Public Works clearance or a permit for new, expanded or relocated driveways. Work on the curb, apron or sidewalk needs a Transportation Department permit. Most of the front yard cannot be paved under SJMC 20.30.440. Consult the City of San Jose driveway approval page (checked October 2026).
What warranty and rebate rules apply to artificial turf in San Jose?
For San Jose yards, our artificial turf has a 15-year warranty. It does not qualify for a Valley Water rebate. Sod is an alternative if you want living grass. Compare the Valley Water eligibility terms (checked October 2026) before choosing.
How much lawn-conversion funding can San Jose homeowners receive?
Valley Water pays $2 per sq ft, subject to a combined $3,000 lifetime residential-site cap. Funding runs to June 30, 2027, or until funds run out. Eligible San Jose Municipal Water customers, single-family or up to 4 units, receive $3 per sq ft for the first 1,000 sq ft, then $2, with a combined $4,000 lifetime cap per residential site across rebate types. Check your retailer by address, and obtain the Notice to Proceed before work or equipment purchases. See Valley Water lawn rebate details (checked October 2026).
When must I turn off sprinklers in San Jose?
On Valley Water-supplied potable water, overhead irrigation cannot run from 9 AM to 6 PM. More than incidental runoff is prohibited, as is watering during or within 48 hours after 0.25 in of rain. These restrictions come from Valley Water Ordinance 23-02 (checked October 2026); do not assume a separate days-per-week limit.
How many weeks should I allow for a San Jose backyard renovation?
Our published San Jose full-renovation timeline is 2 to 6 weeks. A paver patio alone usually takes 3 to 7 days. The schedule depends on the combination of walls, drainage, paving and planting in your project. Time for any permits also needs to be considered before setting a construction date.
Can you landscape San Jose rentals and commercial properties?
Yes, Landscape Associates of CA serves residential and commercial properties in San Jose, including rentals. We also offer ongoing maintenance. The itemized estimate can cover a full rebuild or individual improvements such as drainage, irrigation or planting.
How do I arrange a free estimate at my San Jose address?
Call or text (408) 207-5545 and describe what you want to change at your San Jose property. Landscape Associates of CA replies within 24 hours and offers a free on-site estimate. Your priorities and budget help guide the discussion about which work to include; a few photos of the yard, your rough budget and any deadline help us prepare for the visit.
Get a Free Quote
Call us, send the estimate form, or email us. We reply within 24 hours to book a free site visit. Call or text (408) 207-5545.
- (408) 207-5545
- david@landscapeassociatesca.com
- Mailing address: 125 Surf Way #443, Monterey, CA 93940
- Mon - Fri: 8:00-5:00 · Closed on weekends