New requirements for tree care licensing, certification

    As of Jan. 1, the city is requiring all persons and businesses engaged in tree work of any kind to be licensed, insured and certified. The license requirement is for tree work for hire, including barter or trade services.
    Because tree work can be expensive and potentially dangerous to perform, it’s essential that people who work with trees are knowledgeable about the needs of trees and are trained and equipped to provide proper care, a city news release said.
    Prior to obtaining a Brighton tree care license, a written test and a field test must be taken from one of four municipalities that administer reciprocal testing for the Denver metro area – Aurora, Wheat Ridge, Lakewood and Denver. As with any professional service, companies or individuals engaged in the tree care profession must demonstrate they are competent enough to provide those services.
    Companies engaged in performing tree work within Brighton city limits without a tree care license will be in violation of Brighton’s municipal code and will be subject to enforcement. Tree companies or individuals who pass the requirements to obtain a Brighton Tree License will be posted on Brighton’s website for citizens to use as a reference when selecting tree companies.
    For more information, please contact city Forester Kyle Sylvester at 303-655-2089 or ksylvester@brightonco.gov.