PROTECT YOURSELF & YOUR PROPERTY
Why You Should Only Hire a Licensed Tree Contractor
In California, hiring an unlicensed tree service isn't just risky — it can leave you personally liable for injuries, property damage, and legal violations. Here's what you need to know before you hire anyone.
Natural Wonders Trees, Inc. — CSLB License #900295 (D49/C61)
Verify directly with the California State License Board — takes 30 seconds
THE REAL RISKS
6 Dangers of Hiring an Unlicensed Tree Service
Many homeowners choose the cheapest bid without realizing the serious legal and financial exposure they're taking on. Don't let a low price cost you thousands.
You Become Liable for Injuries
If an unlicensed worker is injured on your property, California law may hold YOU — the homeowner — financially responsible for medical bills, lost wages, and more. A licensed contractor carries workers' compensation insurance, protecting you completely.
Property Damage Goes Uncovered
Unlicensed operators rarely carry general liability insurance. If a tree falls on your home, fence, or vehicle during the job, you're left paying out of pocket. Licensed contractors are bonded and insured — any damage is covered.
Improper Cuts Kill Your Trees
Topping, flush cuts, and over-pruning are common mistakes made by unlicensed crews. These practices cause irreversible structural damage, disease entry, and premature tree death — costing far more to fix or remove later.
Permit & Legal Violations
Many tree removals in California require permits. Unlicensed contractors often skip this step, leaving homeowners facing fines, stop-work orders, or legal disputes with neighbors and local municipalities.
No Recourse If Something Goes Wrong
Unlicensed contractors can disappear after a job. With no license number, bond, or insurance on file, you have virtually no legal recourse. A CSLB-licensed contractor is accountable — you can file a complaint and seek resolution.
Safety Hazards Left Behind
Untrained crews may leave hazardous hanging limbs, unstable root zones, or improperly rigged removals. Licensed arborists follow ANSI A300 safety standards and OSHA guidelines — every job is done safely from start to finish.
California Law Says…
Under California Business & Professions Code §7028, any tree service job valued at $500 or more (labor + materials) requires a valid CSLB contractor's license.
What this means for you as a homeowner:
- Hiring an unlicensed contractor for work over $500 is illegal in California
- You may be held liable for injuries to unlicensed workers on your property
- Homeowner's insurance may deny claims if unlicensed work caused the damage
- A CSLB license means the contractor passed background, financial, and trade exams
- Licensed contractors are accountable — you can file a complaint with the state
OUR CREDENTIALS
Fully Licensed, Certified & Insured
Natural Wonders Trees holds every credential required to perform professional tree work safely and legally in California.
ISA Certified Arborist
International Society of Arboriculture
Trained in tree biology, diagnosis & care
Learn MoreFully Insured & Bonded
General Liability + Workers' Comp
You are fully protected on every job
Get a Free QuoteBEFORE YOU HIRE ANYONE
Your Tree Contractor Hiring Checklist
Use this checklist every time you get a tree service quote — regardless of who you hire.
Ask for their CSLB license number
Then verify it at cslb.ca.gov
Confirm they carry workers' compensation insurance
Ask for a certificate of insurance
Verify general liability coverage
Minimum $1M recommended for tree work
Check for ISA Certified Arborist on staff
Ensures proper tree care knowledge
Get a written, itemized estimate
Never accept verbal-only quotes
Confirm they pull required permits
Many cities require permits for removal
Look up their reviews online
Google, Yelp, Nextdoor, Angi
Avoid door-to-door solicitations
Reputable companies don't cold-knock
Natural Wonders Trees checks every box.
Licensed · Insured · ISA Certified · 677+ Verified Reviews · Since 2007
Hire With Confidence
Natural Wonders Trees is fully licensed, bonded, and insured. Verify our CSLB license #900295 directly with the state — then call us for a free, no-obligation estimate.