Tax guide for landscapers

Tax deductions for landscapers

Mowers, trailers, dump fees, and fuel: here's what landscapers can usually write off and the rule that trips up truck owners.

Published by Cadus Labs LLC · Last updated November 9, 2026 · How we write these guides

Based on IRS Publication 334, the Instructions for Schedule C, and IRS Publication 463.

Common write-offs

A cost generally has to be ordinary and necessary for your work, and if you also use something personally, only the business share counts.

Common business deductions for landscapers
ExpenseHow it's usually handled
Mowers, trailers, and trimmersGenerally depreciated. Without an applicable financial statement, you can elect to deduct items up to $2,500 each under the de minimis safe harbor
Fuel for mowers and equipmentA supply expense, separate from your vehicle costs
Plants, mulch, and stoneBusiness costs for materials you use on jobs
Dump and disposal feesA business expense
Truck costsStandard mileage rate or actual costs, not both
Licenses and pesticide certificationsCosts required for your work
Crew paid as contractorsContract labor. You may need to file Form 1099-NEC at $2,000 or more for 2026

Truck fuel and mower fuel aren't the same

If you take the standard mileage rate for your truck, you can't also deduct its gas, because the rate already covers it. Gas for your mowers and trimmers is separate, so track it on its own.

Keep the proof as you go

Keep receipts, invoices, and bank records for everything you deduct, and log business miles as you drive them. IRS Publication 463 says you can't deduct amounts you approximate or estimate. Cadus keeps receipts, bank transactions, and mileage together, sorted into Schedule C categories.

Recordkeeping checklist

Save a receipt or invoice for every business purchase.
Log business miles as you drive them.
Separate business and personal use of shared items.
Ask a tax professional about large equipment purchases.

Free tools for this

Calculator

1099 and Self-Employment Tax Calculator

Enter your 1099 income and business expenses to estimate self-employment tax, federal income tax, and what to set aside each quarter. No sign-up, and nothing you type is saved.

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Free Invoice Generator

Fill in your details and line items, then download a clean PDF to send your client. No account needed, and nothing you type leaves your browser.

Template

Business Expense Log Template

Copy this table to start organizing business purchases, receipt proof, categories, and business purpose before moving records into Cadus.

Template

Receipt Tracker Template

Use this receipt tracker to see which purchases have proof, which receipts are missing, and which items still need review.

Official sources

IRS Publication 334IRS Instructions for Schedule CIRS Publication 463

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Self-Employed Tax Deductions

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Landscapers Deductions FAQ

Can I deduct gas for my mower if I take the standard mileage rate?

Yes. The standard rate covers your vehicle's operating costs, not fuel for your equipment.

Can I write off a new mower?

Yes. It's generally depreciated, or you may be able to deduct an item up to $2,500 under the de minimis safe harbor.

Cadus educational content is not tax, legal, or accounting advice. Tax rules can change, and individual facts matter. Review official guidance or speak with a qualified tax professional before filing.