Gardening services for The US embassy in Bogotá, Colombia
STATE, DEPARTMENT OF.STATE, DEPARTMENT OF.US EMBASSY BOGOTA · Response deadline: Thu, 12 Nov 2026
What the government is buying
The U.S. Embassy in Bogotá, Colombia, is seeking gardening services. This type of work typically involves maintaining grounds and landscaped areas at diplomatic facilities, which may include lawn care, planting, pruning, pest management, and general horticultural upkeep to keep embassy property presentable and functional. Embassies often have high standards for appearance given their representational role, and facilities in tropical or subtropical climates like Bogotá's may require specialized knowledge of local plant species and growing conditions.
Key facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Agency | Department of State, U.S. Embassy Bogotá |
| Notice type | Solicitation |
| Solicitation number | 19C02026R0001 |
| NAICS | 561730 |
| Set-aside | No Set aside used |
| Response deadline | November 12, 2026, 4:00 PM ET |
| Place of performance | Bogotá, CO-DC |
Who can bid
This solicitation is open to all responsible sources; there is no small business set-aside, meaning large businesses may compete alongside small businesses. Under NAICS 561730 (Landscaping Services), the Small Business Administration's size standard is typically $16.5 million in average annual receipts, though see the solicitation to confirm applicability.
To be competitive, bidders generally need:
- Ability to perform work in Colombia, including any required local business registrations, tax compliance, and employment law adherence
- Experience with commercial or institutional landscaping, preferably at diplomatic or similarly secure facilities
- Personnel who can pass background checks and obtain embassy access credentials
- Capability to source plants, equipment, and supplies locally in Bogotá
How to put together a competitive bid
Given this is an unrestricted overseas requirement with a U.S. government customer, consider these practical elements:
Operational planning: Detail how you will staff the contract reliably in Bogotá. Local labor law, benefit requirements, and turnover rates for manual outdoor work should factor into your cost proposal. Identify whether you will use local employees, expatriate supervisors, or a mixed model.
Security and access: Embassy work requires cleared personnel. Describe your process for screening employees and obtaining badges. Past performance with the State Department or other agencies with strict access controls strengthens your position.
Local supply chain: Demonstrate knowledge of Colombian horticultural suppliers and how you will maintain continuity if political or economic conditions disrupt imports or specific product availability.
Sustainability and water use: U.S. facilities increasingly emphasize environmental stewardship. If applicable, address drought-resistant plantings, efficient irrigation, or integrated pest management approaches suited to Bogotá's altitude and climate.
Pricing structure: See the solicitation for whether the government expects a firm fixed price, hourly rates, or unit prices for defined tasks. Overseas contracts may involve cost elements not typical in domestic bids, such as fuel fluctuations, currency risk, or Value Added Tax implications.
Next steps
Read the full solicitation on SAM.gov using solicitation number 19C02026R0001. The response deadline is November 12, 2026, at 4:00 PM Eastern Time—note that Colombia typically observes the same time zone year-round (COT, UTC-5), which aligns with Eastern Standard Time but confirm your submission timing against the stated deadline. Review all clauses, certifications, and technical requirements carefully before preparing your offer.
View the official notice on SAM.gov →