looking for some technical startup advice

[Rogue_Arbor]

hi all!
I've been in arboriculture for 7 years. I'm a certified arborist and formerly a certified tree climber specialist. I have a good amount of personal relations experience from my past employment, as i acted as assistant sales person. also, when boss would go on vacation, i would run phones, bid, and book work.
I'm a solid climber, a hard worker and Professionalism and dealing with people are my specialties.
I've left that company and moved across oregon to go to school full time. I'd like to pick up some income using my experience in trees. Interested in doing some here and there side work, fridays and some saturdays, but i'm just not comfortable being one of these "fly-by-night" guys with chainsaws that operate illegally and reduce the value of tree work for all of us.

can i get some advice on how to get started - particularly on the buisiness end of things? i know about the need for professionalism, small marketing, etc. i'm just a little lost as far as what i need: business license? contractor's license? what kind of insurance (i don't intend to do crazy things, want to specialize in ornamental stuff, more based on client and risk)? where do i start?? oh! and i'm thinking sole proprietorship. (just me working.)
any tips are hugely appreciated!
thanks for all the great advice i can always count on finding on this forum!

 

[southsoundtree]

Start with a small business incubator.

Look for resources at the university.

Contact the Oregon licensing department/ look online.
In WA we have an online master application that then points you in the direction that you need to move next.

There is some landscaping contractor license in OR. Don't know about arborist license requirements, but look into that.

Anybody know about insurance carriers in OR for treework.
You might look into the ArborMax insurance program that is in the TCIA mag.

What kind of vehicle do you have? Trailer? Chipper? Rental equipment plans? Services you plan to offer? What will be your niche, or competitive advantage? How much will you need to get going? Advertising plans? Connections in the area?