Planning, Estimating, and Permits

Convert plan measurements using the drawing scale; at 1 inch = 10 feet, multiply drawing inches by 10 to get real feet.

Use the legend or plant schedule to identify what each symbol, abbreviation, plant, size, and quantity represents.

Verify dimensions and quantities from the plan before ordering materials to avoid costly errors.

Rectangle area = length x width; for a 45 x 60 ft lawn that is 2,700 square feet.

Circle area = pi x radius squared (radius is half the diameter); a 20-ft-diameter bed is about 314 square feet.

Bulk material volume in cubic yards = length x width x depth (all in feet) divided by 27; always convert inches of depth to feet first.

Add a waste allowance (commonly 5 to 10 percent) to concrete, sod, and bulk material orders.

Apply materials by their rate: fertilizer at pounds per 1,000 square feet, and sod or pavers by coverage per piece.

Estimate labor from task hours multiplied by a fully burdened labor rate that includes wages, payroll taxes, and workers' compensation.

Add overhead and profit on top of direct costs to cover indirect business expenses and earn a sustainable margin.

Obtain required building or grading permits before grading, drainage, or retaining wall work that meets local thresholds.

Permit review checks drainage, setbacks, and structural safety; skipping required permits risks fines and forced removal.

Coordinate inspections at the required stages so work can proceed and be approved.