Why the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office Just Became the Tree Care Industry’s Best Friend (And How They Are Crushing ‘Bad Actors’)
“We owe the same duty to the consumer that we do to the business… We’re not trying to hurt businesses that are operating in the state. It’s just the bad operators that we want to be able to go after.”
If you think government regulators are always out to get hardworking contractors, think again. In a groundbreaking meeting that has our entire board buzzing, the Association of Tree Care Professionals (ATCP) sat down with key leadership from the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office. What we found was not just a regulatory body, but a proactive partner dedicated to protecting legitimate businesses while systematically dismantling the reputation of storm chasers who give our industry a bad name.
The “Orange Placard” Strategy That Changed Everything
During the devastating Western Kentucky tornadoes, the AG’s office didn’t just sit back. They deployed a brilliant strategy that protects the pros. They set up emergency registration centers and issued orange placards to verified contractors. The results were staggering. In the five counties where they ran this program, they registered over 300 contractors and saw only about eight complaints. In the counties without the program? Complaints skyrocketed to 40.
This is exactly the kind of validation our members deserve. When you do things the right way, the government wants to help you shine. Chris Lewis from the AG’s office explained that when verified pros display that placard, law enforcement knows they are the “good guys.” This clears the runway for ATCP members to do their jobs without harassment while the scammers get turned away at the county line.
Transparency is the New Currency
The meeting highlighted a shared mission: total transparency. The AG’s office confirmed that their biggest issue isn’t high prices for high quality work; it is the lack of upfront disclosure. They understand that bringing millions of dollars of equipment to a storm site costs money. They get it. They just want the consumer to know the cost before the work starts.
This aligns perfectly with the ATCP code of ethics. By advocating for clear contracts and ethical billing, we are not just protecting homeowners; we are protecting our own profit margins from regulatory clawbacks. The Kentucky team made it clear: if you are transparent and you deliver on your promises, they have your back.
A Future of Collaboration
This isn’t a one time chat. The Kentucky AG’s office is looking at potential legislative updates to formalize these emergency registration programs, making it even easier for legitimate, out of state pros to help during disasters. They have even asked for our feedback on their consumer education pamphlets. This is a massive win for the ATCP and our members. We are finally at the table, helping shape the rules that govern our livelihood.
The era of the “wild west” in tree care is ending, and Kentucky is leading the charge with a model that supports professional, ethical businesses. It is time to get hyped. The bar is being raised, and the ATCP is right there holding it up.
About the Author
Stefano Devigili
A staple of the Northern Virginia business community, Stefano Devigili is the Co-Founder of
Grant Brothers Tree Service.
Beyond his local impact as an ISA Certified Arborist, he serves as a Founding Board Member of the Association of Tree Care Professionals (ATCP), where he works to elevate professional advocacy and ethical business practices nationwide.
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