What Can a Handyman Do Without a License in Kenner, Jefferson Parish, Louisiana?
Louisiana does not have a blanket handyman exemption like some states, but uses a tiered threshold system: work on existing residential structures under $7,500 does not require state licensing, while work between $7,500–$74,999 requires Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) registration. All roofing work now requires licensing regardless of value (effective August 2025). Kenner requires a city occupational license starting at $50/year, and you must also register with Jefferson Parish. Trade-specific work (electrical, plumbing, HVAC) may require additional local licenses beyond the state LSLBC credential.
✅ What You Can Do Without a License
- Minor drywall repairs and patching (non-structural)
- Interior painting and staining
- Basic carpentry work (trim, shelving, non-load-bearing repairs) under $7,500
- Caulking and weatherstripping
- Fixture replacement (light fixtures, faucet aerators, towel bars) that do not involve plumbing or electrical work beyond simple fixture swaps
- Door and window hardware replacement (hinges, locks, handles) without structural modification
- Gutter cleaning and minor gutter repairs (not replacement)
- Pressure washing and exterior cleaning
- Landscaping and yard work (not involving structural changes)
- Cabinet hardware replacement and minor cabinet adjustments
Common Jobs Handymen Take in Kenner
Based on the LA threshold, handymen in Kenner commonly take on:
- Minor drywall repairs and patching (non-structural)
- Interior painting and staining
- Basic carpentry work (trim, shelving, non-load-bearing repairs) under $7,500
- Caulking and weatherstripping
- Fixture replacement (light fixtures, faucet aerators, towel bars) that do not involve plumbing or electrical work beyond simple fixture swaps
- Door and window hardware replacement (hinges, locks, handles) without structural modification
- Gutter cleaning and minor gutter repairs (not replacement)
- Pressure washing and exterior cleaning
⚠️ What Requires a License
- ANY roofing work on residential structures (all values, effective August 1, 2025 per Act 422)
- Electrical work beyond simple fixture changes (outlet installation, panel work, rewiring, any work affecting the electrical system)
- Plumbing work beyond simple fixture replacement (pipe installation, water heater replacement, drain work, any work affecting the plumbing system)
- HVAC system installation, repair, or replacement
- Structural modifications or load-bearing wall work
- Work on existing residential structures valued at $7,500 or more (requires HIC registration)
- New residential construction valued at $50,000 or more (requires Residential Contractor license)
- Commercial construction projects valued at $50,000 or more (requires Commercial Contractor license)
- Mold remediation work valued at $7,500 or more
- Gas line installation or repair
- Any work that requires a building permit in Kenner
What to Tell Clients About Your Scope of Work
In LA, you can take jobs under $7,500 (labor + materials) without a contractor license. When a client asks, be straightforward: for jobs under this threshold, you're operating legally as a handyman. For larger projects, refer them to a licensed contractor or get licensed before bidding that work.
Business License — Kenner
Required. Occupational License Tax (City of Kenner)
Setting Up Your Business in LA
To get paid professionally and protect yourself, register your business. LLC filing fee in LA: $100 (one-time). You'll also need a free EIN from the IRS and a business checking account.
Your Next Steps to Operating Legally in Kenner
- Step 1: Determine your project scope. If your typical jobs are under $7,500 on existing residential structures and do not involve roofing, electrical, plumbing, or HVAC, you may not need state licensing. If you plan to do roofing, work above $7,500, or handle trade-specific work, proceed to Step 2.
- Step 2: Form your business entity. File Articles of Organization with the Louisiana Secretary of State to create an LLC ($100 filing fee + $5 online convenience fee). Use the GeauxBiz portal at https://geauxbiz.com or mail paper forms to the SOS.
- Step 3: Obtain the City of Kenner occupational license. Contact the Finance Department at (504) 468-4062, Option 1 or visit https://www.kenner.la.us/201/Occupational-Business-Licenses. Pay the initial $50 fee and provide your business information.
- Step 4: Register with Jefferson Parish Bureau of Revenue and Taxation. Complete the general registration form (no fee) at https://www.jeffparish.net or call (504) 363-5500.
- Step 5: If you need state contractor licensing (HIC, Commercial, or Residential), apply with the LSLBC at https://lslbc.louisiana.gov or https://arlspublic.lslbc.gov/LSLBCApplication. Prepare your financial statement, pass the Business and Law exam ($120), and any required trade exams ($120 per classification). Budget for the $10,000 surety bond.
- Step 6: Confirm local trade licensing requirements. Contact Kenner Building Inspection at (504) 468-4062, Option 1 to determine if you need separate local licenses for electrical, plumbing, or mechanical work.
- Step 7: Obtain general liability insurance (minimum $100,000) and workers' compensation insurance if you have employees. Budget $500–$2,000/year.
- Step 8: For each project, obtain any required building permits from the City of Kenner Office of Building Inspection and Plan Review at (504) 468-4062, Option 1 before starting work.
- Step 9: Renew your licenses and permits annually. LSLBC licenses renew on the anniversary date ($100 fee). City occupational licenses renew based on gross receipts (verify the rate schedule). LLC annual reports are due on the registration anniversary ($30 fee).
Licensing rules and fees change over time, so this information may be out of date. Verify all requirements with your local licensing authority before making business decisions.