LBI Landscaping & Exterior Costs: What to Expect

1. General Landscape Maintenance

• Typical Services: Weekly mowing, trimming, edging, and seasonal cleanup (spring and fall)

• Cost Factors: Lot size, location (e.g. oceanfront vs lagoon), accessibility, and number of plant beds or trees

• Service Schedule: Most seasonal homes run from April to October, but year-round residents may need extended service

• Local recommendations: Bay Avenue Plant Co. and Reynolds Landscaping.

2. Irrigation Systems

• Installation: $3,000 to $8,000+ depending on lot size and number of zones

• Seasonal Maintenance:

  • Spring startup: System check and activation

  • Fall winterization: Blowout service to prevent freeze damage (often required by insurance)

• Smart Controls: Many newer systems include Wi-Fi timers or moisture sensors, ideal for second homeowners

3. Hardscaping (Walkways, Pavers, Driveways)

• Driveway Resurfacing: Crushed shell, stone, or pavers — $1,000 to $10,000+

• Walkways & Patios: Pavers or flagstone range from $15 to $35 per square foot installed

• Drainage Matters: Because of LBI’s water table, proper grading and stormwater control are essential — especially near the bay or lagoons

5. Fencing

• Materials: White vinyl and pressure-treated wood are most common

• Permitting: Some towns restrict fence height and style, especially in flood zones or on corner lots

• Typical Cost: $25 to $45 per linear foot depending on material and layout

6. Outdoor Showers

• A signature LBI feature and nearly essential for rentals

• Basic Prefab Kit: $1,200 to $2,000

• Custom Build: $3,000 to $5,000+

• Winterization Needed: Must be shut down and drained each fall

7. Pool & Spa Landscaping

• Pools: Fiberglass pools and gunite pools are the two most popular options

• Landscaping Around Pools: Stone patios, privacy plantings, and pool fences can run $10,000+

• Saltwater Exposure: Choose coastal-hardy plants and corrosion-resistant materials

8. Lighting

• Low Voltage Landscape Lighting: $150 to $300 per fixture. Popular around walkways, outdoor showers, decks, and pool areas

9. Seasonal Considerations

• LBI weather can be harsh — salt air, wind, and winter storms can damage delicate plantings or exposed wood

• Many owners remove outdoor furniture, store grills, and cover showers or irrigation in the off season

10. Local Rules & Design Tips

• Towns may have zoning rules about gravel coverage, setbacks, and impervious surface limits

• Native plants are recommended for low maintenance, drought resistant landscaping

• Artificial turf is growing in popularity for low upkeep yards, especially in rental-heavy areas