These two often get conflated, but they're legally different. Pesticide/herbicide application: this IS a confirmed legal requirement. Under the Plant Protection Products (Sustainable Use) Regulations 2012, anyone using a professional plant protection product must hold a recognised 'specified certificate' (commonly referred to by its component units, e.g. PA1, PA6/PA6AW) or work under the direct personal supervision of a certificate holder. A previous 'grandfather rights' exemption ended on 25 November 2015 and no longer applies. Chainsaw/tree work: there is no single government-issued 'chainsaw licence.' However, HSE guidance treats training and a recognised certificate of competence (commonly NPTC or Lantra Awards units) as essential before working on or in a tree commercially, and self-employment does not remove that expectation. Both only apply if you actually offer that specific service — general maintenance gardeners don't need either.
General business guidance, not legal, financial or professional advice. Requirements change — check the official source or a qualified professional before relying on it.
Official sources
- GOV.UK — Waste carrier, broker or dealer registrationGovernment guidance
- SEPA — Waste carriers and brokersGovernment guidance
- Natural Resources Wales — Register or renew as a waste carrier, broker or dealerGovernment guidance
- HSE — INDG317, Chainsaws at workGovernment guidance
- HSE — Forestry and arboriculture workers / "Are you...?"Government guidance
- HSE — Training and competence (work equipment & machinery)Government guidance
Home Help Hub Business is not a government or regulatory body. Labels describe the type of source we used; always check the latest version on the source's own site.