Bidding on a Public Park Design with No Experience: Risks and Reality

Can a Novice Design a Public Park, Dog Walk, and Campground?

Small town accepting bids. No design experience, but plenty of ideas. Seeking pricing guidance.

Fundamental Concerns

• Liability: Public facilities require licensed professionals (Landscape Architects) in 47 states. Errors cause injuries, lawsuits.
• Competency: Grading, drainage, ADA compliance, construction detailing, phasing, cost estimating—skills gained through education/apprenticeship.
• Procurement: Public bids require standardized proposals, insurance, bonding, references.

Viable Paths Forward

1. Partner: Team with a licensed LA or engineer. You contribute community vision; they ensure buildability and compliance.
2. Community Design Process: Volunteer for the stakeholder committee. Advocate for your ideas within a professional framework.
3. Education: Enroll in LA program or certificate. Start with small private projects.

Fee Estimation (If You Proceed)

• Typical: Hourly rate × estimated hours = lump sum not-to-exceed.
• Hourly = (Salary + Overhead × 1.5–2.0) / 1,800 billable hrs/yr.
• Resources: Time-Saver Standards for Landscape Architecture, NRPA guidelines, ASLA fee surveys.

Reality Check

Established firms have track records, templates, and crews. A small project might be too small for them—but perfect for a qualified emerging professional. Without credentials, you likely won't be shortlisted.

Dream big, but start with mentorship.