Consulting Arborists

After review of the proposed tree work, we may require a Certified Arborist (CA) to be onsite during the project and serve as a liaison to NYC Parks. The CA's primary role will be to ensure that all work is done to industry standards and our protocol. The CA will be a person independent of, and not associated with, those persons performing the tree pruning, tree removal, and tree planting or transplanting operations, or any construction operations. Prospective Consulting Arborists will be approved by Parks based on their qualifications and their ability to provide the necessary staff and services for a given project.

Consulting Arborist Approval

All persons desiring approval as Consulting Arborists must possess certification from the International Society of Arboriculture (I.S.A.) with the minimum credential of “Certified Arborist” or must be a “Registered Consulting Arborist” by the American Society of Consulting Arborists (A.S.C.A). The CA monitoring the work under the Forestry Permit, whether they are the individual named on the permit or an employee of that individual, must possess these minimum qualifications. NYC Parks will review the CA’s professional credentials prior to the approval and issuance of the Tree Work Permit.

Types of Reports

NYC Parks may request one of two types of Certified Arborist Reports, Type I or Type II.

Certified Arborist Report — Type I

This report is to be filled out for any type of work done on or near an existing tree that is under the jurisdiction of NYC Parks.

Common uses for this report are, but not limited to:

Utility installation or repair
Water/sewer installation or repair
Remedial work required by NYC Parks upon damage to existing trees
As directed by NYC Parks Forestry Inspectors

Download the Certified Arborist Type I Report

Certified Arborist Report — Type II

This report is to be filled out for any Department of Buildings New Building, Alteration Type I or Alteration Type 2 (greater than 20%) as per recent zoning requirements. This report depicts existing tree conditions and any work that the applicant may need a certified arborist to act as a liaison with NYC Parks on or near an existing tree that is under the jurisdiction of NYC Parks.