Minnesota Tree Care Registration and Pest Quarantine Rules

Under Minnesota Statutes section 18G.07, any person providing commercial tree care, tree trimming, or tree removal services must register annually with the Commissioner of Agriculture, supply business information, and pay the $25 fee. Section 18G.06 authorizes the Commissioner to issue quarantines restricting movement of trees, logs, firewood, and nursery stock to prevent spread of regulated forest pests such as emerald ash borer, gypsy moth, and oak wilt. These quarantine orders apply uniformly statewide and supersede inconsistent municipal rules on plant material transport.

Operating an unregistered tree care business or moving quarantined wood across regulated boundaries is a misdemeanor; civil penalties up to $7,500 per violation may apply under section 18G.10.