Frequently Asked Questions

What is FireSky?

FireSky improves the outdoor living experiences of residential and commercial properties. The work begins with an in-depth review of the environment so that what our design/build landscape company creates is sustainable and enjoyable. Our aim is to enrich our clients’ lives and the properties they own.

From these experiences and learnings, we’ve created a business model for other landscape architects to follow and similarly oversee the entire design and construction of their projects. Along every step, the landscape architect is empowered to provide clear communication, seamless project management, and a high-quality end product to their clients. Learn more about why you should choose FireSky

Why was it started?

After earning his landscape architecture degree and working in the industry for years, FireSky founder Ron DuHamel was unsatisfied with low design fees and a lack of final control over his projects. Ron set out to develop a better way for landscape architects to take back project control and maximize their careers. The result is an LA-led design/build company that is the model for the FireSky franchise. Learn more about the FireSky story

What is the franchise opportunity?

At the heart, it is a scalable business model that complements your landscape architecture education and experience. You bring your drive, determination and talent as a foundation, and then layer on top the FireSky business model to deploy that talent in a design/build world. This leads to increased revenue opportunities and better control over each project. Get in touch to learn more about the opportunity

How can I benefit?

Landscaping and outdoor living is a $99 billion industry with 6% growth in the last five years (source). With demand for landscaping improvements continuing to increase among both residential and commercial sectors, FireSky offers you an opportunity to create a space of your own in this growing market. Join us—combine your experience and education with our established reputation, industry expertise, and dedicated support to start and/or grow your own outdoor living franchise. Get in touch

How can FireSky help me build my business?

An investment in a FireSky franchise provides you with a wealth of revenue-generating opportunities—helping you build your future career in the industry or add on a design/build branch that runs seamlessly alongside your traditional landscape architecture firm. Learn more about why you should choose FireSky

What experience do I need to own a FireSky franchise?

There are a few things that make for a successful FireSky franchisee candidate. First, we're looking for landscape architects who are either currently registered in or are already a graduate of an accredited landscape architecture school. It's helpful to have sufficient prior education or experience in residential landscape design, landscape construction, and estimating. Additional skills you could bring would be project management skills like organization and communication. Finally, bring a passion for the creative process involved with landscaping projects. Learn about the process to become a franchisee Get in touch here.

How long is the franchise agreement?

Your initial franchise agreement term is five years. After that, you have the option of up to three more five-year terms.

What all is involved with becoming a FireSky franchise?

We’ve developed a streamlined process to join our team. Qualifying landscape architects who sign on to become a franchisee will need to undergo training, and set up their office and business management systems. Learn more about it More on the process here.

Do I have to employ and manage crews and buy equipment?

No! Just like at FireSky Outdoor, you can leave this part up to your subcontractors and craftsman. You manage—they build. Discover more benefits here

Can you make projections about my business?

Due to franchise laws, we cannot share with you any projections for what your business may produce. If we didn’t think experienced landscape architects like you would be successful, we would not have created the opportunity.

Will I be competing against other FireSky franchisees?

Franchisees are given a protected territory for residential sales. Commercial property projects, which tend to evolve through client-based relationships across multiple locations and regions, are not given the same protections.

Do I get help with the startup?

Absolutely! During the first months of your franchise operations, we'll provide you with office set-up assistance, a comprehensive operations manual and headquarters-based training lasting up to five days, as well as a day of onsite training. You'll also have access to education and business systems to help you become a better contractor. The entire FireSky operation is committed to helping franchisees grow their business. Learn more about how we provide support

What about ongoing support?

As a FireSky franchisee, you can count on local marketing support designed for your service area, networking guidance with local contractors, ongoing training for business operations and career growth, and cutting-edge technology suites that include systems for estimates, project management, and customer interaction, and design production. We can also advise you on selecting the best material supply vendors. Design support for specific projects is also available. Remember, your agreement comes with the backing of the growing FireSky network. Learn More

How much initial investment is required?

The projected investment for a FireSky franchise location is between $61,110 and $91,285 for conversion, $73,000 and $112,315 for an add-on franchise to an existing business, and $78,800 to $117,315 for a startup business. This investment amount includes an initial franchise fee of between $25,000 (with a 20% discount available for add-on franchises). Get in touch to learn more about the initial investment.

How much are the ongoing fees?

As a franchisee, you would pay a declining scale based on your revenues per year, starting with 4% of gross receipts. These fees allow us to fund ongoing support services and the continued development of program resources, marketing tools, training programs and systems upgrades to help you succeed.

Does that include marketing?

Once an initial three-month launch period has been completed (with a $5,000 minimum required spend), you must spend at least $500 per month on local marketing efforts in their markets. Franchisees are also required to contribute at least $3,000 per month to our system-wide marketing fund, which is used to develop branded marketing materials that you can customize and use within your protected territory.

Do you offer financing?

As with any new business venture, it's important that you have the capital needed to fund your new business adequately. While we do not offer direct financing to franchisees, we may be able to provide references to qualified financing or lending resources, on a case-by-case basis. Get in touch with us.