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How to Choose a Tree Service in Polk County

Last updated October 19, 2026. General consumer guidance, not legal advice.

Tree work is one of the riskiest jobs around a home. A dropped limb can damage a roof, and an injured worker can become a claim against the property owner if the company carries no coverage. These checks take about 15 minutes and apply to any provider, including ones referred through this site.

1. Get proof of liability insurance

Ask for a certificate of insurance (COI) sent directly from the insurance agent, not a photo of a card. Check that the company name matches the quote, the policy dates cover your job date, and general liability is listed. You can ask the agent to name you as certificate holder.

2. Check workers' compensation

Florida's Division of Workers' Compensation runs a public Proof of Coverage database where you can search an employer by name and see active policies or exemptions. If a company says it has an exemption, ask who will actually be climbing and cutting on your job.

3. Verify ISA certification, if claimed

The International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) offers credentials such as ISA Certified Arborist and the Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ). Certification belongs to a person, not a company, so ask which certified arborist will assess your tree, then confirm the credential with ISA's online verification tool. For removing a healthy-looking tree you think is dangerous, a TRAQ-qualified arborist's written assessment also matters under Florida Statute 163.045 (see our permit guide).

4. Get it in writing

• An itemized quote: removal, stump grinding, haul-off and cleanup listed separately
• Who handles permits, if any are needed
• Start date and payment terms; be cautious of large deposits or cash-only demands
• For work near power lines, confirm the utility's role first

5. Watch for red flags

• Door-to-door offers after a storm, especially with pressure to sign today
• Recommending "topping" a healthy tree; ISA consumer materials explain why topping harms trees
• Climbing spikes used on a tree that is being pruned, not removed
• No physical business contact or refusal to provide insurance proof

Free local help

UF/IFAS Extension Polk County offers residential horticulture and Master Gardener programs that can answer general tree-care questions at no cost.

Frequently asked questions

Does Florida require a license to remove trees?

Florida has no statewide license for general tree trimming or removal, so checking insurance and credentials yourself matters. Some cities require a local business tax receipt; ask your city.

How do I check if an arborist is ISA certified?

Ask for the person's name and certification number, then look it up with the ISA credential verification tool on TreesAreGood.org.