Zenscape

Zenscape designs and builds gardens in the San Francisco Bay Area, drawing on over 20 years of experience in contemporary landscape design. Owner Brian Ott studied Zen Buddhism and lived in Japan, where he developed an Eastern aesthetic approach to garden design. The firm emphasizes space, simplicity, and the timeless elements of rock, wood, and water.

Zenscape integrates environmental responsibility into its work, using local, green, and sustainable materials whenever possible. The firm stresses drought-tolerant plantings suited to California's climate and often includes edible gardens in projects. Each design aims to transform a garden into a living space of beauty, rest, and repose.

In California, landscapers must hold a C-27 Landscaping Contractor license issued by the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). Before hiring anyone, verify their license status through the CSLB online license-check tool at cslb.ca.gov—you can search by license number or contractor name. This step protects you and ensures the contractor meets state requirements.

Whether your project needs a building permit depends on its scope and your local city or county rules. San Francisco has its own building department with specific code requirements. Contact the city building department to find out what permits apply to your garden work—the contractor you hire should be familiar with these local requirements.

When selecting a landscaper, ask about their experience with drought-tolerant plants, which are increasingly important in California's changing climate. Clarify whether the scope is design, build, maintenance, or a combination, and discuss how the contractor handles local materials and sustainable practices.