Do tree services in Omaha need a license?

The city's Parks handout says it is unlawful to engage in the business of arboriculture in Omaha without an arborist's license under the municipal code. Ask any company for its license.

Does Nebraska require arborists to be certified?

No. Certification through ISA or the Nebraska Arborists Association is voluntary, but it is a good sign.

What are the red flags?

Door-to-door storm chasers, demands for full upfront payment, no written estimate, and offers to top the tree.

How to Hire a Tree Service in Omaha: A Checklist

Q: What insurance should a tree service carry?

Ask for certificates showing liability insurance and workers' compensation, and confirm them with the insurer directly.

Call (531) 227-5581

Hiring someone to take a large tree down near your house is one of the riskier home decisions, and the wrong crew can leave you with property damage and an injury claim. Use this checklist before you say yes.

1. The City of Omaha arborist license

Omaha licenses arborists. A City Parks handout says it is unlawful to engage in the business of arboriculture in the city without an arborist’s license under the municipal code. The city is reported to license different types of work separately, so ask what a company is licensed for and whether it covers the job you need. Ask the company for its license, and ask the city how to confirm it is current. The city maintains a list of licensed arborists; we do not link individual companies on this site.

2. Insurance, verified

Ask for certificates of liability insurance and workers’ compensation, and confirm them with the insurer rather than trusting a printed page. Nebraska Forest Service guidance on selecting a tree service stresses this step. If an uninsured worker falls or a limb hits your roof, the claim can land on you.

3. Certification is optional but a good sign

Nebraska does not require arborist certification. Credentials from ISA or the Nebraska Arborists Association are voluntary. They do not replace the city license, but they suggest training.

4. A written estimate that spells things out

It should state:

What is being removed or pruned, and the price.
Whether hauling and cleanup are included.
Whether the stump will be ground.
Who handles any right-of-way approval. See boulevard trees.
Who coordinates with OPPD and 811. See OPPD and trees.

Get more than one estimate and compare what each includes. Our cost guide explains what moves the price.

5. Practices to avoid

Topping. Cutting a tree back to stubs is harmful, and Nebraska guidance says to avoid it.
Full payment up front. Pay on completion, or with a modest deposit.
Unsolicited door-knockers after a storm. See storm cleanup.

6. If chemicals are involved

Treatments for pests, such as emerald ash borer, may involve pesticides. Ask who applies them and what state credential that person holds.

7. Questions to ask on the phone

What is your Omaha arborist license, and when does it expire?
Can you send insurance certificates?
Will you give me a written estimate with cleanup and stump listed?
Who arranges the permit, OPPD disconnect, and 811 call?

Want help finding a local tree service? Call (531) 227-5581 or send a request below.