Salem Design Landscape & Construction

Salem has both a strong Conservation Commission and a Historical Commission. Any landscape work — soil disturbance, hardscape, planting, tree removal — within 100 feet of the harbor, North River, Forest River, or a wetland triggers Conservation Commission review. Properties inside the McIntire and other local historic districts need Historical Commission sign-off for visible exterior changes including fences, walls, walks, and major plantings. Street trees are protected through the Tree Warden. Retaining walls over four feet need a building permit. Pools require zoning, building, and electrical permits.

North Shore coastal pricing runs above inland Essex County. Weekly mowing on a typical small Salem lot is $50–$70 because access often involves narrow alleys and side gates. Spring cleanups $300–$650, fall cleanups $400–$900. Mulch installed is $105–$135 per yard. A bluestone patio in the 250–400 sf range typically runs $11,000–$18,000 — bluestone is the historic-district favorite. Full design-build packages in the McIntire District or along the harbor often start at $35,000 and reach $100,000+ when stone walls, custom gates, and irrigation are in scope.

Massachusetts requires a written contract and a Home Improvement Contractor registration for most residential landscaping work; ask for the registration number and check it before paying a deposit.

More on permits, costs, rebates and common questions, plus every other landscaping contractor serving the town, on the Landscaping in Salem page.