How Do I Get a License to Trim Trees in Broward County?

Why do I need a license to trim trees?

Trees are amazing! They grow in stature and are long lived. Just like us, trees can have special needs, be injured, and because of such injury, can decline or even die.

Far too often, due to lack of knowledge and understanding, trees are neglected or abused. When this happens they can become a danger to the humans that live among them.

Broward County is densely populated, has a long growing season and a very active storm season. Because of this, results of poor pruning practices quickly become evident. Improper pruning creates hazardous trees that can damage property, and injure people, sometimes killing them. Good tree pruning reduces the likelihood of this happening!

If you are a business that trims trees, here is what you need to know…

Broward County’s Tree Trimmer Licensing Ordinance requires each business organization (sole proprietor or company) that trims trees for hire be trained and obtain a tree trimmer license. This mandate includes governmental entities who trim trees. In addition to the one license per company requirement, these organizations must also have at least one trained person per job site at all times. Training certification is obtained by passing a tree trimming class offered by UF/IFAS Extension Broward.

How do I get certified to trim trees?

UF/IFAS Extension Broward provides the training needed to obtain this certification card. Basic tree trimming classes are offered for new certification candidates and advanced classes for those needing to renew (after two years). Classes are available in both English and Spanish.

How do I obtain a Tree Trimmer License with Broward County?

The certification card issued by UF/IFAS Extension Broward is not a License. Therefore, if you are engaged in tree trimming as a profession, you must also obtain a license.

Tree Trimming Licenses are issued by Broward County Building Code Services. Meeting the “one certified person per job site at all times” requirement is one of several prerequisites for obtaining a tree trimming license. (Please use this link to see all the requirements and to apply for a license.)

Tree Trimming is a skill anyone can learn.

Take this class if you are involved in the tree care industry, or if you are a homeowner or property manager that wants to learn more about tree BMPs.

UF/IFAS Extension Broward Basic Tree Trimming will provide you with essential knowledge and skills to correctly prune and care for trees. Lessons learned will make your trees safer during storms, and create a more sustainable and beautiful urban forest.

Click here to Register for both basic and advanced (renewal) classes.

For more information on Best Management Practices (BMPs) in Tree Trimming, go to Ed Gilman’s website and Ed Gilman’s video series on tree care and pruning.

If you live in Broward County, be sure that those you hire to trim your trees can provide you with a Broward County License. Report those who do not.