Bulletproof Handyman

What Can a Handyman Do Without a License in Lansing, Michigan (Ingham County)?

By , Founder of Bulletproof Handyman · Last reviewed July 2026

In Michigan, handymen can work without a state contractor license on projects under $600 (including labor and materials) thanks to the state's handyman exemption under MCL § 339.2403(f). However, this exemption does not cover electrical, plumbing, or HVAC work—those trades require separate state licenses regardless of project cost. For work at or above $600, you must obtain a Michigan Residential Builder or Maintenance & Alteration Contractor License from LARA ($195 application fee). Lansing requires contractor registration with the city, and you must also register your business entity with the Michigan Department of Treasury for tax purposes.

The magic number in MI: $600. Jobs under $600 (labor + materials combined) don't require a contractor license — you can take those as a handyman. Jobs at or above $600 require a contractor license. Know your number, know your limit.

✅ What You Can Do Without a License

Common Jobs Handymen Take in Lansing

Based on the MI threshold, handymen in Lansing commonly take on:

⚠️ What Requires a License

What to Tell Clients About Your Scope of Work

In MI, you can take jobs under $600 (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 — Lansing

Required. City of Lansing Contractor Registration / Business License

Setting Up Your Business in MI

To get paid professionally and protect yourself, register your business. LLC filing fee in MI: $50 (one-time). You'll also need a free EIN from the IRS and a business checking account.

Your Next Steps to Operating Legally in Lansing

  1. Step 1: Determine if your work requires a license. If all projects will be under $600 and do not involve electrical, plumbing, or HVAC work, you may operate under the handyman exemption. If you plan to do work over $600 or in the trades, proceed to Step 2.
  2. Step 2: Register your business entity. Form an LLC by filing Articles of Organization with the Michigan Secretary of State ($50 fee) or operate as a sole proprietorship. If using a business name different from your legal name, file a DBA with the Ingham County Clerk.
  3. Step 3: Register with the Michigan Department of Treasury for tax purposes. Obtain a free Sales Tax License if you sell taxable goods. Register for income tax withholding and unemployment insurance if you have employees.
  4. Step 4: If performing work over $600 or in specific trades, apply for the appropriate state license from LARA: Residential Builder License, M&A Contractor License, or trade-specific licenses (electrical, plumbing, mechanical). Complete 60 hours of prelicensure coursework, pass the exam, and pay the application fee ($195).
  5. Step 5: Register with the City of Lansing. Contact the Building Safety Office at (517) 483-4355 to obtain a contractor registration / business license and confirm the current fee.
  6. Step 6: Obtain general liability insurance. Recommended coverage is $1 million per occurrence / $2 million aggregate.
  7. Step 7: Before starting any project, verify with the City of Lansing Building Safety Office whether a building permit is required. If the property is in the Historic District, contact the Planning Department for additional requirements.
  8. Step 8: Keep detailed records of all projects, including contracts, invoices, and proof of insurance. Maintain compliance with all state and local licensing requirements.

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.