Arborist certification

That sounds like a CT state reg. There are tons of people out there that prune and are not a Certified Arborist. Now whether they prune correctly or not is another question. Come to think of it, there are a lot of CA's that that may apply to as well.
 
That seems like a peculiar regulation. I would think it would be hard to enforce, except through censoring advertising, and it provides non-certified tree workers a strong incentive to encourage removals.
 
Jed's got it right with respect to the need for a license to practice arboriculture in CT.

I feel like I'm a sucker sometimes when I'm drawn into these threads...sometimes I take folks seriously when they are just horsing around. But I also like to be helpful. As the OP's profile identifies CT as the location of the OP and assuming folks are genuinely interested:

1. With respect to the original post, the point is not certification such as that issued by ISA but a license issued by the state of Connecticut. There is no formal relationship between the two.

2. For the licensure process, check out: http://www.ct.gov/deep/cwp/view.asp?a=2710&q=324234

I have done trainings with the Connecticut Tree Protective Association (which seems to serve as a state arborist association) and they look to be a good outfit: https://www.ctpa.org/. I'm sure their programs can help someone with their business in tree care.

States vary, some require licenses and some do not. In my experience on the fringes of this business, when something bad happens even through just unfortunate dumb luck, not having a required license makes things much worse.
 
Presenting at CTPA was very enjoyable for me too--a good group, that does much good work.

Unfortunately the reg does backfire if it compels the unlicensed to push removals--maybe even more than they would otherwise!

Why not just take the test, and stop worrying about fines?
 
Yes I am in ct. So what are the chances of getting fined and if so do you know what the fine is ?
Back when I was going through the testing process, getting ready to go in for the oral exam, I was speaking to another guy who got fined for pruning with out a license. I think it is based on what was done and on how many trees. I want to say his fine was around $2400.
The state has drones flying on a regular bases looking for guys topping/hat racking trees. When the laser fire starts you know your in trouble. A summons will quickly appear in your mail box.
That being said if you are going to be pruning just do it well..........and keep a look out for the drones!
 
Presenting at CTPA was very enjoyable for me too--a good group, that does much good work.

Unfortunately the reg does backfire if it compels the unlicensed to push removals--maybe even more than they would otherwise!

Why not just take the test, and stop worrying about fines?
Been studying with the ISA study guide. I guess I should just to take it. Any pointers before I go?
 
Jed and KTSmith are correct. The ISA exam and the CT exam are quite similar, so studying for 1 or the other should suffice. The CTPA offers a course called Arboriculture 101 every fall and spring that is designed as a CT Arborist License test prep and will teach you most everything you need to know for the exam. I highly recommend it.

https://www.ctpa.org/arboriculture-101/

And yes, they do fine people. I know several of us Buzzers who are CT Arbs have had run-ins with the state. A few years ago they got their signals crossed and threatened me with a fine of several thousand (don't remember the exact amount) until I got them straightened out, but it did take a little time and effort.
 
Been studying with the ISA study guide. I guess I should just to take it. Any pointers before I go?
Go on the ct deep website and look for information regarding the arborist license. It will give you the names of books and other resources to study.
The CTPA has an arborist 101 program that can be very helpful.
Half of the test is for a supervisory pesticide license. This is where most guys run into trouble. Pest/disease and treatment.
I am not ISA certified but from what I am told the CT arborist exam is more difficult.
 
Back when I was going through the testing process, getting ready to go in for the oral exam, I was speaking to another guy who got fined for pruning with out a license. I think it is based on what was done and on how many trees. I want to say his fine was around $2400.
The state has drones flying on a regular bases looking for guys topping/hat racking trees. When the laser fire starts you know your in trouble. A summons will quickly appear in your mail box.
That being said if you are going to be pruning just do it well..........and keep a look out for the drones!
you're joking around right?
 
Arborist LICENSE? Where do you get that?

Yup, Nick, that's what the state calls it.
Most states require licenses for doctors, lawyers, pharmacists, engineers and land surveyors. CT requires them for most professions and skilled trades (plumbers, electricians, physical therapists, etc) in order to practice your craft.

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