To become a licensed arborist, you need to:
- Meet eligibility requirements: Applicants must be 18 years of age and apply by contacting the Lincoln Parks and Recreation Administration Office at 3131 O Street STE 300.
- Study for the Exam: Review the exam information below, Lincoln Municipal Code and ANSI A300 Tree Care Standards. See the information and links below for more information.
- Apply and pass the exam: Take and pass the City of Lincoln Certified Arborist exam or show proof of other professional licensing such as the ISA accreditation, NAA Licensing or another municipality arborist license.
- All exams must be completed in person at the Lincoln Parks and Recreation administrative offices, 3131 O Street, Suite 300 during regular business hours (weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.). Contact City of Lincoln Community Forestry Section to schedule an exam at parks@lincoln.ne.gov or call 402-441-7847. Cost of the exam is $35. Accepted payments include cash, check and credit card.
- Receive certification:
- Provide proof of qualifying license or passed City of Lincoln exam
- Provide proof of Worker’s Compensation Insurance and public liability insurance in the form of a commercial or comprehensive general liability policy, or an acceptable substitute policy form as permitted by the City Attorney, with a minimum combined single limit of $500,000 aggregate for any one occurrence.
Identification: A City of Lincoln Arborist License will be issued to all arborists in good standing. Vehicle identification stickers are also available for purchase at 3131 O St STE 300.
Renewal: Arborist Certificates are valid until December 31st and must be renewed annually. The fee of $35 and current proof of Worker’s Compensation and Liability insurance will be required at the time of renewal.