As of January 1, 2021, individuals that are ISA certified arborists can apply for an Arborist License Phase through Oregon's Landscape Contractors Board (LCB). Below is a summary of who can apply for this new license phase, what work is/is not covered, the legal definition, and contact information should you have additional questions.

PNW-ISA hosted two Town Hall meetings in October and November 2020 to provide members with an opportunity to learn more about this new license phase. The November Town Hall Meeting included LCB staff who conducted a presentation and were on hand to answer questions that members had. To view this recording, click on this link.

Who can apply for the Arborist License Phase?

• An individual with a current ISA certification required;

•  Must pass laws, rules, and business practice section of the exam;

• Subcontracting is allowed;

• Application fees discounted through 12/31/2021, if currently licensed with the CCB.

Scope of Work:

• Tree Planting (see definition of trees below)
•  Preparing the property for planting of trees
• Grading and drainage (for trees only)
• Tree removal, trimming, pruning, stump grinding, and guying
• Existing LCB planting only phased licensees with an ISA certification could convert to an arborist license
• May be added to other phases of licenses (e.g.; irrigation + arborist), except the modified license

Definition:

For the purpose of the arborist license, a tree is considered a woody plant usually having a dominant trunk, or trunks, and a mature height greater than 15 feet (4.5 meters), and which generally has few or no branches on its lower part, and is crowned with a head of branches and foliage or, as in palms, of foliage only.

Not Allowed:

• Planting of lawns, shrubs vines, or nursery stock (except trees as defined above)
•  Ornamental water features
• Irrigation installation
• Backflow installation
• Low voltage lighting
• Hardscapes such as: retaining walls, fences, decks, arbors, walkways, patios, driveways, and landscape edging.

Work listed above can be performed by passing additional exams and obtaining additional phases of licensure.

You only need an LCB license to perform all tree work. A CCB license does not allow you to plant trees. For answers to frequently asked questions regarding tree work, please visit:

https://www.oregon.gov/lcb/Pages/FAQ-Tree-Work.aspx.

Still have questions? Contact the LCB directly at (503) 967-6291 or email lcb.info@oregon.gov