Should landscapers be certified or licensed?

<div>When it comes to landscapers, licensing laws vary. Landscaping architects are required to be licensed in all 50 states, whereas traditional landscaping contractors are not typically required to hold a certification. You’ll likely be working with a landscaping contractor for most residential projects. If you are redesigning your whole yard or adding in hardscape features, you will work with a landscaping architect at some point during the project. Be sure to <a href="https://www.angi.com/angi-license-check.htm">check our state licensing tool</a> to review the local landscaper guidelines.As you browse our pro listings, take note of the “Angi Approved” badge. Angi Approved businesses meet our standards for certification which include: <ul><li>The owner, principal, or relevant manager passed a criminal background check</li><li>Required to have applicable state and local licenses</li><li>Maintain an average star rating of 3.0 or better on our network, if they have at least one review</li><li>Paying to advertise their services</li><li>Meeting any other eligibility criteria required by Angi</li></ul>Keep in mind licensing is different from certifications. A license is a legal requirement to operate a business, while certifications are voluntary.</div>

How much does it cost to remove a tree?

<div>On average, <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-tree-removal-cost.htm">removing a tree costs</a> around $750, but you can expect to pay between $200 to $2,000. Factors that impact the overall cost include the number of trees you’re having removed, their height, the diameter of their trunks, permits needed, and the tree’s accessibility. You’ll pay more if the tree is in a hard-to-reach area or dangerous location, like close to power lines.</div>

How much are typical landscaping costs?

<div><a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-landscaping-cost.htm">Landscaping costs</a> around $3,500 but varies widely from $200 to $14,000. Factors that play a part in your final landscaping price tag include:<ul><li>Location</li><li>Yard size</li><li>Project size</li><li>Materials</li><li>Land preparation</li><li>Type of landscaping</li></ul>Considering so many factors, it’s not surprising that the overall costs can differ. A typical landscaping project is flower bed installation, which averages between $800 and $3,000. However, landscape lighting installation is a higher-end project, with a price tag of $2,000 to $6,000. </div>

Do tree removal companies need insurance?

<div>Yes, you will want to confirm that the tree removal company you hire is insured before proceeding with the job. Tree removal can be dangerous work, and it's important to verify that the company carries the proper insurance to cover any onsite accidents or damage.As you browse our pro listings, take note of the “Angi Approved” badge. Angi Approved businesses meet our standards for certification which include: <ul><li>The owner, principal, or relevant manager passed a criminal background check</li><li>Required to have applicable state and local licenses</li><li>Maintain an average star rating of 3.0 or better on our network, if they have at least one review</li><li>Paying to advertise their services</li><li>Meeting any other eligibility criteria required by Angi</li></ul>Keep in mind licensing is different from certifications. A license is a legal requirement to operate a business, while certifications are voluntary.</div>

Get matched with top arborists in Lake Forest, CA

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Tree Trimming Service

Landscape Yard or Garden Installation

4.3

(217)

TRUSTED BY LAKE FOREST, CA HOMEOWNERS

4.4

Average homeowner rating

648

Verified arboricultural services reviews

Verified Reviews for Arboricultural Service pros in Lake Forest, CA

*The Angi rating for Arboricultural Service companies in Lake Forest, CA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Arboricultural Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Arboricultural Service companies in Lake Forest, CA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Arboricultural Service needs.

Last update on July 19, 2025

Reviewed in October 2008
Our lemon tree was overgrown with the neighbor's vines and was looking sickly. They trimmed back the overgrowth, trimmed back dead branches on the lemon tree, and explained that the tree was near the end of its life. With their care, the tree is still plugging away.
Precision Tree Service
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Reviewed in July 2013
The estimator is a certified arborist and another certified arborist supervised the crew. They knew how to thin the trees without topping or hacking. The crew did a good job.
Your Way Tree Service
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Reviewed in May 2013
Ike Isaacson from Nature-Scape was very knowledgeable about trees, he gave us a fair price, and the work was done quickly.
NATURE-SCAPE
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Reviewed in August 2020
1) The arborist came out to inspect our Modesto Ash tree. He said it was dead and should be removed. We made a second appointment to remove that tree and one other dead tree, and to trim other trees as needed to remove dead branches or those touching the garage. He also provided advice about...
Pacific West Tree Care Inc
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Reviewed in June 2017
Art of Arborists is really good. It is hard to find a good landscaper. He is reasonable and excellent.
ART OF ARBORISTS
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Reviewed in June 2010
Great! The service was excellent and we were able to benefit from Arturo's recent certification as an Arborist!
Lopez Tree Service
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Reviewed in June 2011
They were very professional and did a very good job. They are licensed arborists' and are also fully insured.
Gruett Tree Company Inc
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Reviewed in September 2014
I initially contacted this firm because I wanted an arborist to evaluate two mature trees which appeared to be dying. After further research, I decided that an arborist wasn't needed because the trees were obviously beyond help. I rescheduled for removal of the two 40 ft high birch trees. The...
David's Tree Service
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Reviewed in November 2006
I am impressed with Tip Top Arborists, Inc. and I would have hired the company if I had been located in their service area. However, Tip Top Arborists normally service Santa Clarita Valley, Antelope Valley, and Victor Valley. Jim Lewandowski, President, quickly responded to my E-mail. The price...
Tip Top Arborists
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Reviewed in March 2016
Excellent. On time, professional and my trees look beautiful. I love that they have three Arborists. Office staff very friendly and professional as well.
Kerry's Tree Service Inc
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