Hiring an Arborist

Hiring an Arborist

isaProperly maintained trees can provide years of benefits to property owners and the community but can be a liability if unhealthy or poorly pruned by unqualified individuals. Therefore, it is a worthwhile investment to hire a professional, Certified Arborist that can provide guidance on maintaining your tree's health for years to come as well as provide safe and proper pruning, plant health care, and removal services. 

While the City cannot recommend tree care companies, it is important to look (and ask) for the following qualifications:

Certification and Training

1. ISA Certified Arborist - Arborists certified through the International Society of Arboriculture are experienced professionals who have passed a comprehensive examination on tree care, have knowledge of the best techniques in the industry, and who also meet requirements for on-going education. 

2. Education such as a degree in urban forestry, forestry, horticulture, arboriculture or related field.  

3. Accreditation & Membership in professional organizations including the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA), International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), American Society of Consulting Arborists (ASCA), and the Illinois Arborists Association (IAA). 

Contractor Registration, Insurance, & Permits
1. Park Ridge Contractor Registration and proof of Insurance. If the tree care company/arborist is not registered and uninsured, homeowners may be held responsible for any injuries or damage that occurs during the tree work.  

2. Ensure the Contractor has obtained necessary permits to perform tree work.  While the city does not require permits for pruning, a permit is necessary to remove any tree over 10" in diameter (measured at 4.5' from the ground) on private property.  Visit the Tree Preservation page for more information on required permits.

In the video below, Certified Arborist Dana Karcher explains how to hire an aborist. 
(Arbor Day Foundation, 2017)

The following resources are available online to assist property owners in finding local Certified Arborists or tree care companies. 
Illinois Arborist Association - Find an Arborist
International Society of Arboriculture - Why Hire an Arborist?

For additional information about tree ownership and maintenance, please view the following resources: 
Trees Are Good - Tree Owner Information
USDA Forest Service - Tree Owner's Manual