08/21/2026
We have gotten a number of phone calls from local residents who have questions about the difference between a "licensed tree expert" and an "arborist." Locally, the State of Maryland has a Licensed Tree Expert which has specific licensing requirements and qualifications. Although similar to a Certified Arborist, a Licensed Tree Expert is a bit different.
See: https://dnr.maryland.gov/forests/pages/programapps/newtreeexpert.aspx The Maryland Licensed Tree Expert is specific to the State of Maryland and does not certify or license the person or company outside of the State of Maryland. You may have seen a company or companies advertising in the area stating the company is a "licensed tree expert" which is connected to this type of licensing and the company being located in Maryland. See the "qualifications" link listed on the website listed above.
A Certified Arborist is someone who is "trained in the art and science of planting, caring for, and maintaining individual trees. Arborists are knowledgeable about the needs of trees and are trained and equipped to provide proper care" https://wwv.isa-arbor.com/publicoutreach/whyhirecertifiedarborist/index
This is a national certification earned by completing many hours of training and continued training over time. You can explore the International Society of Arboriculture's website listed above.
The owner of Cut "Em Up Tree Care of Delaware, Inc. was at one time both a Maryland Licensed Tree Expert and a Certified Arborist. He gave up his Maryland Licensed Tree Expert credentials because the company no longer works in Maryland. He is still a Certified Arborist with over 40 years of experience in the tree care industry.
In the State of Delaware, any company operating within the state MUST have a current Delaware Business License, and contractors, such as tree care companies, MUST be registered with the Office of Contractor Registration (operating under the Department of Labor). Even if the company is licensed and registered in the company's home state such as Maryland or Virginia, the company MUST also be licensed and registered to work in Delaware. ALWAYS make sure any company your hire to work at your residence or other property is licensed, registered AND insured by requesting proof of these certifications, licenses, and/or insurance.
Homeowners can search the Delaware Contractor Registry to find a certified contractor or to verify the contractor they are considering is registered with the state:
https://contractorregistry.delaware.gov/
The International Society of Arboriculture promotes the professional practice of arboriculture and fosters a greater worldwide awareness of the benefits of trees.
