This is research, not legal advice. Rules change, and cities and counties add their own. Confirm with the agencies listed at the bottom before you start.
Georgia at a glance
| Weekly cleaning and chemicals | No contractor license, but see pesticide rules |
|---|---|
| Repairs and equipment | Residential contractor license over $2,500; trade licenses apply |
| Pesticide / algaecide license | Pesticide contractor license likely required |
| Sales tax | Confirm with the Department of Revenue |
| CPO certification | Not required for residential pools |
Do you need a license to clean pools in Georgia?
We found no state contractor license for routine pool cleaning in Georgia. The bigger issue is pesticide licensing, covered below.
Licenses for repairs and equipment work
Georgia has no pool-specific contractor license. A residential contractor license is generally required for larger jobs (commonly cited as over $2,500). Smaller repairs can be done unlicensed if you tell the owner you're unlicensed and the work doesn't affect structural integrity. Electrical, plumbing and low-voltage licenses still apply. (law.onecle.com, rules.sos.ga.gov)
Pesticide and chemical rules
The Georgia Department of Agriculture lists "Swimming Pool Maintenance Company" as an example of a business that needs a pesticide contractor license, with at least one full-time certified commercial applicator. Contact the Department to confirm which applicator category fits your work before you start. (agr.georgia.gov)
Registering the business and sales tax
Register with the Georgia Secretary of State and get your county or city business license. CPO certification isn't required for residential pools.
Startup checklist
- Form your business entity and get an EIN from the IRS.
- Confirm the license questions above with the agencies below, in writing if you can.
- Get your city/county business license and any sales tax registration.
- Buy general liability and commercial auto insurance. See what pool service insurance costs.
- Budget your startup cash with the startup cost calculator.
- Set prices from your real costs with the pricing calculator, and put a service agreement in place for every customer.
Who to confirm with
- Georgia Department of Agriculture, Pesticide Division (404-656-4950): Pesticide contractor license and applicator category
Other states
Florida · Texas · California · Arizona · Nevada · North Carolina · South Carolina