ISA Code of Ethics

ISA members will:

• Strive for continuous self-development by increasing their qualifications and technical proficiency by staying abreast of technological and scientific developments affecting the profession.
• Not misuse or omit material facts in promoting technical information, products or services if the effect would be to mislead or misrepresent.
• Hold paramount the safety and health of all people and endeavor to protect property and the environment in the performance of professional responsibilities.
• Subscribe to fair and honest business practices in dealing with clients, suppliers, employees and other professionals.
• Support the improvement of professional services and products through encouraging research and development.
• Observe the standards and promote adherence to the ethics embodied in this Code.

Adopted August 1992

In June 2009, the ISA Board of Directors further adopted Codes of Ethics for Certified Arborists, Tree Work Specialists, and Board Certified Master Arborists [link to appropriate PDFs] to support quality tree care and customer service by the industry.

Along with the new Codes, procedures were instituted to investigate ethics charges. Complaint statements are available to ensure anonymity and fairness in pursuing such charges.

All certification candidates must sign a Code of Ethics Agreement at the time of the certification examination.