Tampa Self Certified Private Arborist
July 8, 2023

July 8, 2023

Mid Florida Tree Service is proud to have two City of Tampa Self-Certified Private Arborists (SCPA) on staff, allowing them to assist clients through the often complex permitting processes associated with tree care and maintenance.

What is a Certified Arborist?


A Certified Arborist is a highly trained professional with recognized certification from esteemed organizations like the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). These experts possess extensive knowledge in tree care, maintenance, and management, making them adept at assessing tree health, diagnosing issues, and providing guidance on proper tree care practices. Certified Arborists are dedicated to preserving and enhancing the well-being of trees in various settings, including urban areas, parks, and private properties.


Understanding Self-Certification

The City of Tampa has established a Self-Certified Private Arborist (SCPA) program, which Mid Florida Tree Service’s arborists are proud to be part of. This program empowers certified arborists to perform several critical tasks, facilitating efficient and effective tree care.


For a detailed overview of the SCPA program, visit: City of Tampa SCPA .


Key Responsibilities of Self-Certified Private Arborists

  1. Tree Conditions Evaluations and Risk Assessments: SCPA-certified arborists can conduct thorough evaluations and risk assessments necessary for obtaining tree removal permits for protected, specimen, and grand trees. They are also authorized to assess conditions and risks for tree pruning permits, particularly for specimen and grand trees.
  2. Tree Surveys: Certified arborists can provide certification for tree surveys, which are essential for zoning reviews, right-of-way permit reviews, and building permit reviews. These surveys offer valuable information regarding the condition and significance of trees on a property.
  3. Arborist Reports: In addition to tree surveys, SCPA-certified arborists can prepare detailed arborist reports. These reports are crucial for zoning reviews, right-of-way permit reviews, and building permit reviews, offering professional assessments and opinions on trees to aid in development project decision-making.


Requirements for Participation in the SCPA Program

To participate in the SCPA program, arborists must hold an active ISA certification, ensuring they possess the necessary skills and knowledge in arboriculture. The certification is strictly personal and cannot be used by another person, company, or entity.


Recertification is required every two years, and certified arborists must attend quarterly advisory meetings to stay updated with the latest practices and developments in the field.

Compliance and Quality Assurance

Arborists participating in the self-certification program must use specific forms and adhere to approved evaluation and risk assessment methods provided by the city. The submitted documentation is accepted as the official information for a development site, eliminating the need for additional inspections by Natural Resources. Routine audits by Natural Resources ensure adherence to program standards.


In the event of changes to local, state, or federal laws impacting City Codes and Technical Standards, additional or updated courses may be required to maintain certification. Compliance is crucial to avoid certification becoming void due to audit violations.


Commitment to Excellence

Mid Florida Tree Service continually strives to provide exceptional service while simplifying processes for their clients. Their commitment to having certified arborists on staff underscores their dedication to delivering top-notch tree care and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations. When you choose Mid Florida Tree Service, you're selecting a team that prioritizes both the health of your trees and the ease of your experience.

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