Typical cost range
$5,000 – $80,000+
Typical timeline
1 – 8 weeks
A well-designed backyard extends your living space outdoors. From simple planting refreshes to complete transformations with patios, outdoor kitchens, retaining walls, and lighting, landscaping projects reward thoughtful design and proper groundwork.
From lawn to outdoor living room
Full backyard development combines "hardscape" (patios, pathways, retaining walls, fire pits, outdoor kitchens) with "softscape" (plants, trees, lawn, artificial turf). The best projects start from how you actually live outside — dining, entertaining, playing, relaxing — and design around that.
Drainage and irrigation first
Grading and drainage are the invisible foundation of every yard. Water that pools against your house or a neighbor's fence causes damage that costs far more to fix later. Modern irrigation — smart controllers and drip lines — keeps planting healthy while cutting water use, which matters throughout California.
Plants, permits, and HOA rules
Low-water and native plants keep maintenance and irrigation costs down year after year. Retaining walls above certain heights, gas lines for fire pits, and electrical for lighting and outdoor kitchens usually require permits — and HOAs often need to approve plans before any work begins.
Smart tips before you start
- Solve drainage and grading before anything goes in the ground — rework is expensive.
- Choose low-water, California-friendly plants to cut maintenance and irrigation costs.
- Get HOA approval in writing before starting if you live in an HOA community.
- Verify your landscaper holds a C-27 landscaping contractor license and insurance.
Every project is unique. The ranges above are typical — your actual cost and timeline depend on your home, materials, and scope. Get quotes from licensed contractors to compare real numbers.