Tree work rules in Maryland

In Maryland anyone in the business of tree care or removal must be a Licensed Tree Expert or work under one. The Department of Natural Resources Forest Service issues the license, and trees 20 feet tall or less are outside the definition.^1-3

Maryland's Forest Conservation Act sets a floor: counties and cities with zoning powers must run forest conservation programs that meet or exceed the state standards.⁴

If a tree is touching the power line to your house, keep clear and call your utility first. Clearing the line is the utility's job, and a tree company can't start until it's done.

Maryland keeps work 10 feet from overhead lines, and tree trimming is expressly listed. Before working closer, promptly notify the line owner and arrange barriers, relocation or de-energizing first.^5-6

Maryland's one-call law doesn't name stump or root removal, but it covers earth moved by any tool, and only a resident hand digging to 6 inches is exempt. Call 811 before a stump is ground or dug out, and the one-call center can say whether your job needs a locate.^7-8

Applying general or restricted-use pesticides for hire in Maryland needs a pesticide business license from the Maryland Department of Agriculture, with a certified applicator in each category. Shade tree work falls under subcategory 3A, Ornamental plants and shade trees (exterior).^9-10