Tree service license in Florida

We found no state-level license just for tree work in Florida. Pesticide, contractor and city rules can still apply. We did not find a Florida state license for tree trimming or removal. Florida's 2021 law (House Bill 735) preempts occupational licensing to the state and limits local licensing. In July 2025, UF/IFAS reported that this law ended Broward County's tree trimmer licensing ordinance and that local governments can no longer mandate a tree trimmer license, though counties still enforce tree protection rules and can cite tree abuse. Mangroves are a special case: trimming them is covered by the state Mangrove Trimming and Preservation Act, and ISA certified arborists automatically count as Professional Mangrove Trimmers with the Department of Environmental Protection. We could not confirm a state-level tree license; check with the state and your city. Checked 25 October 2026. Short explanation, not legal advice.

An FDACS brochure says anyone performing pest control services for others, including applying insecticides, herbicides and fungicides, needs a pest control business license from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). A Limited Certification for Commercial Landscape Maintenance allows applications to plant beds and ornamental plants only, with small hand-held or backpack sprayers, and does not allow treating lawns or running a pest control business. Applying restricted use pesticides outdoors needs a pesticide applicator license under Chapter 487. Ask FDACS which license fits your tree spraying work. Confirm the exact license category with the Florida pesticide program before you spray or inject trees for pay.

We could not confirm on an official page whether any Florida state contractor license covers tree work. House Bill 735 (2021) preempts occupational licensing to the state and limits local licensing. Check with the state and your city or county about any local business tax or registration they still require. Check with the licensing board if a job is large or includes other construction work.

Cities and counties still enforce tree removal permits and tree protection or tree abuse ordinances, so check with the local office before removing or heavily pruning a tree. Check with the city or county where each job is, not only where your shop is.

Homeowners, cities and property managers often ask for proof of general liability insurance, and employers generally need workers' compensation; talk to a licensed insurance agent about what fits your company. Talk with a licensed insurance agent who knows tree work. General information, not insurance advice.

We checked them on 25 October 2026 and linked 5 official sources on this page. Rules, fees and websites change, so confirm with the agency before you bid or work.