Tree & Pesticide Application License

Anyone engaging in tree pruning/removal and/or restricted-use pesticide application for financial compensation within the City limits of Hays is required to obtain a license prior to commencing work.  A license allows the City to verify that tree and pesticide contractors have met state regulations, have current liability insurance, and have basic knowledge to safely perform the work.

The City must have a current "Certificate of Liability Insurance" on file at all times.  Licenses become invalid if a current certificate is not on file at the Parks Department.

To set up an appointment to obtain one or both of these licenses, contact the City of Hays Parks Department at (785) 628-7375.

A license is not required if…

  • The actual work is being completed by the property owner. Property owner may be assisted by friends or family. 
  • trimming or removing small bushes

Cost: The initial license fee is $25 with a $10 renewal fee each calendar year thereafter. A license fee will cover one or both of these licenses.

Tree Pruning/Removal License Requirements:

EXAM:  If the applicant is not a Kansas Certified Arborist, an oral exam by the Director of Parks or his designee is required.

INSURANCE:  The City must have a current "Certificate of Liability Insurance" on file at all times.  Minimum insurance requirements are $250,000 per occurrence bodily injury liability insurance and $250,000 aggregate limit property damage liability insurance.

BUSINESS IDENTIFICATION:  At least one piece of equipment at all job sites must have the business name on it with  letters no less than 3-inches in height.  Font must be clearly legible and able to be read at a distance of at least 60-feet.

Pesticide License Requirements:

CERTIFICATION:  Applicants must be certified through the State of Kansas for the application of restricted-use pesticides within the city limits of Hays.  A current copy of a pesticide license must be on file with the City of Hays at all times.

INSURANCE:  The City must have a current "Certificate of Liability Insurance" on file at all times.  The City requires coverage in the amounts set by the State of Kansas to maintain the state issued restricted-use pesticide license.   The current coverage amounts are $25,000 per occurrence bodily injury liability insurance and $5,000 aggregate limit property damage liability insurance.  Any changes in requirements by the State of Kansas supersede these amounts listed.

BUSINESS IDENTIFICATION:  At least one piece of equipment at all job sites must have the business name on it with letters no less than 3-inches in height.  Font must be clearly legible and able to be read at a distance of at least 60-feet.

Licensed Contractors List:

To request the current list of licensed contractors for tree work and/or pesticide application, please contact the Parks Department at aleiker@haysusa.com or (785) 628-7375.

Links:

Kansas Arborist Association

Kansas Pesticide Application License