How Much Does Landscaping Cost in Scarborough? (2026 Pricing Guide)
How Much Does Landscaping Cost in Scarborough? A Complete 2026 Pricing Guide
If you're a homeowner in Scarborough or the surrounding GTA, one of the first questions you'll have before starting any outdoor project is: how much does landscaping cost?
The honest answer is that it depends. A simple lawn care package runs a few hundred dollars a season, while a full front yard redesign with interlocking and plantings can run into the tens of thousands. After 15 years of working on properties across Scarborough, Pickering, and North York, I've seen the full range — and I know what drives costs up or keeps them reasonable.
This guide breaks down real pricing for the most common landscaping services in the Scarborough and GTA area. These aren't made-up numbers — they reflect what homeowners are actually paying in 2026.
Lawn Care Costs in Scarborough
Regular lawn maintenance is the most affordable entry point for professional landscaping. Here's what to expect:
Weekly/Bi-Weekly Lawn Mowing
Small lot (under 2,000 sq ft of lawn): $40–$60 per cut
Average lot (2,000–4,000 sq ft): $55–$85 per cut
Large lot (4,000+ sq ft): $80–$120+ per cut
Most companies offer seasonal packages that bring the per-visit cost down. A full-season mowing contract (April through November, roughly 26–30 cuts) typically runs $1,200–$2,500 for an average Scarborough property.
Lawn Aeration and Overseeding
Core aeration: $80–$150 for a standard residential lot
Overseeding (added to aeration): $100–$200 additional
Combined aeration + overseeding package: $150–$300
Fertilization Programs
Per application: $60–$100
Full-season program (4–5 applications): $250–$450
Dethatching
Power rake/dethatching: $150–$300 depending on lot size and buildup
Sod Installation Costs
Laying new sod is one of the fastest ways to transform a yard. In Scarborough and the GTA:
Sod material only: $0.50–$0.80 per sq ft for Kentucky Bluegrass blend
Sod installation (material + labour): $2.00–$3.50 per sq ft
Soil prep and grading (if needed): $1.00–$2.50 per sq ft additional
Typical Project Costs
| Project Size | Estimated Cost (installed) |
|---|---|
| Small front yard (500 sq ft) | $1,200–$1,800 |
| Average front + back (1,500 sq ft) | $3,500–$5,500 |
| Large property (3,000+ sq ft) | $7,000–$10,000+ |
What affects the price: The condition of the existing soil is the biggest variable. If we need to strip old sod, remove debris, bring in new topsoil, and grade the surface before laying, that adds significantly to the project. Properties with good existing soil and minimal grading keep costs on the lower end.
Interlocking and Hardscaping Costs
Interlocking stone is one of the most popular — and most expensive — landscaping investments. It's also one of the best for curb appeal and property value.
Interlocking Driveways
Standard pavers (Holland, Roman): $18–$28 per sq ft installed
Premium pavers (Unilock, Techo-Bloc branded): $25–$40 per sq ft installed
Permeable interlocking: $28–$45 per sq ft installed
A typical two-car driveway in Scarborough (400–600 sq ft) runs $9,000–$18,000 depending on materials and the amount of base prep required.
Interlocking Walkways and Patios
Walkways: $20–$35 per sq ft (smaller area but more cuts and detail work)
Patios: $18–$30 per sq ft
Steps and retaining walls: $40–$80 per linear foot
What Drives Interlocking Costs
1. Base preparation — Proper excavation, granular base, and compaction is non-negotiable. Cutting corners here leads to shifting and sinking within a few years.
2. Pattern complexity — A herringbone or circular pattern takes more time and creates more material waste than a running bond.
3. Drainage requirements — Some Scarborough properties, especially near the Bluffs or in low-lying areas, need additional drainage work.
4. Access — If materials need to be hand-carried to the backyard, labour costs increase.
5. Removal of existing surface — Tearing out old concrete or asphalt adds $3–$6 per sq ft.
Garden Design and Planting Costs
Professional garden design ranges widely based on scope:
Design Fees
Basic planting plan (sketch + plant list): $200–$500
Full landscape design (scaled drawings, 3D renderings): $800–$2,500
Design + project management: $1,500–$4,000+
Planting Costs
Perennials (installed): $15–$35 per plant
Shrubs (3–5 gallon, installed): $45–$100 per plant
Trees (2–3" caliper, installed): $300–$800 per tree
Mulch (installed): $65–$95 per cubic yard
Typical Garden Renovation Projects
| Project | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Front garden bed refresh (remove + replant) | $1,500–$3,500 |
| Full front yard garden design + installation | $4,000–$10,000 |
| Backyard garden with patio integration | $8,000–$20,000+ |
Factors That Affect How Much Landscaping Costs
Beyond the specific service, several factors influence your total project cost in Scarborough:
Property Size and Condition
Larger properties cost more, but the per-square-foot rate often drops. A property with significant slope, poor drainage, or heavy clay soil (common in parts of Scarborough and Pickering) requires more prep work.
Timing and Season
Spring and early summer are peak season. If your project can wait until late summer or early fall, you may find more availability and occasionally better pricing. Fall is actually an ideal time for many planting projects.
Permit Requirements
Some Scarborough projects — particularly front yard hardscaping, large retaining walls, and anything near the property line — may require a City of Toronto permit. Permit costs range from $100–$500, and your contractor should handle the application.
Material Choices
The difference between builder-grade and premium materials can double the cost. That said, premium pavers and plants often last significantly longer and require less maintenance, so the long-term value is there.
Accessibility
Properties with narrow side gates, steep slopes, or limited equipment access cost more because of the additional manual labour involved.
How to Budget for Landscaping in Scarborough
Here's a practical framework for budgeting:
Basic lawn care season: $1,500–$3,000
Front yard curb appeal upgrade (garden + sod): $3,000–$7,000
Driveway or patio interlocking: $8,000–$20,000
Full front and backyard renovation: $15,000–$40,000+
A good approach is to phase the work. Many of our clients at Dawn Till Dusk Landscaping start with the most visible areas (front yard, driveway) and tackle the backyard in a subsequent year. This spreads the cost and lets you live with the design before committing to the next phase.
Getting an Accurate Quote
The ranges in this guide give you a realistic starting point, but every property is different. The best way to know how much landscaping costs for your specific Scarborough property is to get 2–3 detailed quotes from reputable local contractors.
When comparing quotes, make sure each one specifies:
Materials (brand, type, thickness)
Base preparation method and depth
What's included in cleanup and disposal
Warranty or guarantee terms
Payment schedule
At Dawn Till Dusk Landscaping, we provide detailed written estimates that break down materials, labour, and timelines so you know exactly what you're paying for. We've been serving homeowners across Scarborough, Pickering, and North York for over 15 years.
Ready to get a quote for your project? Call us at (647) 893-3876 or visit dawntilldusklandscaping.ca to request a free estimate.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I budget for a complete front yard landscaping project in Scarborough?
For a full front yard transformation including garden beds, sod, and a new walkway, most Scarborough homeowners spend between $5,000 and $15,000. Simpler projects (new sod and garden refresh) can come in under $4,000, while projects with extensive interlocking or retaining walls can exceed $20,000.
Is it cheaper to do landscaping myself?
For basic tasks like planting annuals or spreading mulch, DIY can save money. For anything involving grading, drainage, interlocking base prep, or large-scale planting, professional installation typically costs less in the long run because mistakes are expensive to fix. Improperly installed interlocking, for example, may need to be torn out and redone within 3–5 years.
What time of year is cheapest for landscaping in the GTA?
Late summer (August–September) and fall (October) tend to have more availability and occasionally better pricing. Spring is the busiest season. However, some projects — particularly sod installation — are best done in spring or early fall when growing conditions are optimal.
Do landscaping projects in Scarborough need a permit?
It depends on the scope. Basic garden work, lawn care, and small patios generally don't require permits. Front yard hardscaping that changes drainage patterns, retaining walls over a certain height, and structures like pergolas may need a City of Toronto building permit. Your contractor should advise you on this.
How much does it cost to maintain a landscaped yard annually?
Annual maintenance for a typical Scarborough property — including regular mowing, spring and fall cleanups, fertilization, and garden maintenance — runs between $2,500 and $5,000 depending on the property size and level of service.
Does landscaping increase property value?
A well-landscaped property can increase curb appeal and perceived value significantly. While exact ROI varies, the general industry consensus is that quality landscaping can return 100–200% of the investment at resale, particularly for front yard improvements that are visible from the street.
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