Last Updated on March 26 at 2:13 pm
The following information provides updates on current “lockdown” or “shelter in place” order that have been issued by State and Local Governments. For the landscape industry it extremely important to understand our ability to continue to work in these various states and localities.
For your reference we have provided the most current information for each state and if there is an order in place we have provided provisions of that order that are the most pertinent to the landscape industry. This information can be used as a reference for landscape professionals to confirm whether their services are essential and can continue to conduct business.
In states that we do not have explicit language exempting the landscape industry we are continuing to communicate with those officials to provide further evidence of the essential nature of landscape services. The provisions cited below that do not explicitly exempt landscape services does infer the essential services the industry provides through maintenance, repair, sanitation and other provisions associated with the landscape industry and through our continued support of other essential businesses. This remains a rapidly developing situation and we will update this website as we learn new information.
Specifically concerning the Department of Homeland Security, Memorandum on Identification of Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers During COVID-19 Response in determining which industries are “essential” we believe as an industry we fit within this definition for many reasons detailed in our letter. We received further clarification from Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Black that the landscape industry is included.
“Georgia is blessed to have an incredibly diverse agricultural sector that includes everything from food producers and processors to landscape and green industries,” Black said. “We encourage local governments and decision makers to consider the central role all these industries and businesses play in our state and local economies as they make key decisions during this response.”
Alabama
To date, no state order is in place that would impact landscape professionals
Alaska
No guidance at this time.
Arizona
On March 23, 2020 an order issued by the Governor restricting the continued operation of all non-essential businesses in the state became effective.
The provision that includes landscape services is: Essential Infrastructure Operations - …building management and maintenance; landscape management…
Critical trades – Building and Construction Tradesmen and Tradeswomen and other trades including but not limited to plumbers, electricians, exterminators cleaning, and janitorial staff for commercial and governmental properties, security staff and operating engineers, HVAC, painting, moving and relocation services and other service providers who provide services that are necessary to maintain the safety, sanitation and essential operation of residences, essential activities and essential businesses and operations.
The Order: https://azgovernor.gov/sites/default/files/eo_2021_0.pdf
Arkansas
To date, no state order is in place that would impact landscape professionals
California
On March 19, 2020 an order issued by the Governor restricting the continued operation of all non-essential businesses in the state became effective. California initially followed the guidance provided by the Department of Homeland Security, Memorandum on Identification of Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers During COVID-19 Response in determining which industries are “essential” and can therefore remain in operation.
On March 22, California created the same list as DHS and made some minor amendments which can be found here.
The provision that includes landscape services is: “Workers such as plumbers, electricians, exterminators, and other service providers who provide services that are necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residences”
In addition, NALP’s position can be read here which identifies the role the landscape industry is playing to protect other essential critical workers while also protecting public health and safety. The order can be found here: https://covid19.ca.gov/img/Executive-Order-N-33-20.pdf
Colorado
On March 24, 2020 an order issued by the Governor requiring noncritical workplaces in Colorado to reduce their in-person workforce by 50% became effective. The order is currently set to expire on April 17, 2020. The order does not directly impact the landscape industry as long as policies can be put into place to permit teleworking and practicing social distancing.
The policy does not apply to essential businesses described in guidance issued by the governor:
Critical Services, including trash and recycling, mail, shipping, laundromats, child care, building cleaning and maintenance, auto supply and repair, warehouses/distribution, funeral homes, crematoriums, cemeteries, animal shelters and rescues
Public Safety Services like law enforcement, fire prevention and response, EMTs, security, disinfection, cleaning, building code enforcement, snow removal, auto repair.
Guidance: https://www.postindependent.com/news/colorado-governor-issues-order-to-reduce-in-person-workforce-of-noncritical-workplaces-by-50-asks-people-to-limit-movement-in-public/
The Order: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1O1EDCY6-A6QBKxzDImCSF8bBBdOOI3Km/view
Connecticut
On March 22, 2020 an order issued by the Governor restricting the continued operation of all non-essential businesses in the state became effective. The order is currently set to expire on April 23, 2020.
Connecticut has followed the guidance provided by the Department of Homeland Security, Memorandum on Identification of Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers During COVID-19 Response in determining which industries are “essential” and can therefore remain in operation.
The provision that includes landscape services is: “Workers such as plumbers, electricians, exterminators, and other service providers who provide services that are necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residences”
In addition, NALP’s position can be read here which identifies the role the landscape industry is playing to protect other essential critical workers while also protecting public health and safety.
Order: https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/Office-of-the-Governor/Executive-Orders/Lamont-Executive-Orders/Executive-Order-No-7H.pdf?la=en
Delaware
On March 24, 2020 an order issued by the Governor restricting the continued operation of all non-essential businesses in the state became effective. The order is currently set to expire on April 23, 2020.
The provision that includes landscape service is: “Administrative Support & Services – Services to Buildings and Dwellings” (NAICS Code 5617) The list specifically included the NACIS codes to assist in making determinations and the landscape industry falls within this NAICS code, as it is 561730.
List of Essential Businesses: https://coronavirus.delaware.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/177/2020/03/Delaware-list-of-essential-and-nonessential-businesses-March-22-2020-2.pdf
Order: https://governor.delaware.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2020/03/Fifth-Modification-to-State-of-Emergency-03222020.pdf
Florida
To date, no state order is in place that would impact landscape professionals.
The following localities have enacted restrictions on businesses:
Miami Dade County
On March 19, 2020 an order issued by the Mayor restricting the continued operation of all non-essential businesses in the state became effective. The provision that includes landscape service is: Landscape and pool care businesses, including residential landscape and pool care businesses
The Order: https://www.miamidade.gov/information/library/coronavirus-emergency-order-07-20-businesses.pdf
Broward County
On March 23, 2020 an order issued by the Mayor restricting the continued operation of all non-essential businesses in the state became effective. The provision that includes landscape service is: Landscape and pool care businesses, including residential landscape and pool care businesses
The Order: https://www.broward.org/CoronaVirus/Documents/BerthaHenryExecutiveOrder20-01.pdf
Palm Beach County
On March 26, 2020, Palm Beach County issued Emergency Order Number 2 stating that All noncritical retail and commercial business locations are ordered closed except to the extent necessary to perform Minimum Basic Operations.
The provision that includes landscape services is found in Section 4(u), stating Landscape and pool care businesses, including residential landscape and pool care services, provided however, all employees must be educated on CDC and FDOH guidelines including social distancing and such businesses are responsible for ensuring compliance with such guidelines and in particular, with regard to interactions with customers age 60 or over.
The order:
http://discover.pbcgov.org/PDF/COVID19/Emergency-Order-Number-2.pdf
Georgia
To date, no state order is in place that would impact landscape professionals. Please reference Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Black’s statement confirming the essential nature of all Landscape Services.
The following localities have enacted restrictions on businesses as of March 25, 2020:
City of Savanah confirmed all landscape/horticulture/turf and related businesses are considered essential.
Athens-Clarke County confirmation of Essential Business: "Landscape service providers, landscape supply and retail garden centers, irrigation, chemical applicators and related businesses are included."
Brookhaven County confirmation of Essential Business: "Landscaping services are an essential part of the residential construction business and is exempt."
Cobb County confirmation of Essential Business: "Service providers that maintain or ameliorate the exterior of facilities or grounds where there is social distancing and a limit of no more than 5 employees. Examples: grass cutting...tree cutting or pruning, landscaping, etc."
City of Stockbridge confirming Landscape services are not restricted from operating.
Hawaii
On March 23, 2020, Governor Ige ordered the entire state to stay at home and work from home beginning March 25 through April 30.
Hawaii sites the guidance provided by the Department of Homeland Security, Memorandum on Identification of Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers During COVID-19 Response in determining which industries are “essential” and can therefore remain in operation; but Hawaii also enhances the list.
The provision that includes landscape services is: Critical trades. Building and Construction Tradesmen and Tradeswomen, and other trades including but not limited to plumbers, electricians, exterminators, cleaning and janitorial staff for commercial and governmental properties, security staff, operating engineers, HVAC, painting, moving and relocation services, and other service providers who provide services that are necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residences, essential activities, and essential businesses and operations;
The order: https://governor.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/2003162-ATG_Third-Supplementary-Proclamation-for-COVID-19-signed.pdf
Idaho
On March 25, 2020, the governor issued an order to self-isolate, incorporating the CISA guidance.
The provision that includes landscape services is Section 8 (f)(ix)
“Plumbers, electricians, exterminators, landscapers, and other service providers who provide services that are necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residences, essential activities, and essential businesses.”
The order:
https://coronavirus.idaho.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/127/2020/03/statewide-stay-home-order_032520.pdf
Illinois
On March 21, 2020 an order issued by the Governor restricting the continued operation of all non-essential businesses in the state became effective.The order will remain in effect until April 7, 2020.
The provision that includes landscape services is: Critical trades Plumbers, electricians, exterminators, cleaning and janitorial staff, security, etc.
The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity issued a document to assist businesses further determine their status. The document specifically includes landscape services.
Can residential and commercial lawn service remain open? Yes. Many landscape projects will fit under an exemption such as construction, agriculture, or public works. Outdoor landscape projects generally will provide for good social distancing that poses little risk of transmission, but it still is important to ensure the ability to wash or sanitize hands and take other precautions. https://www2.illinois.gov/dceo/SmallBizAssistance/Documents/Essential%20Business%20Checklist3-22.pdf
Order: https://www2.illinois.gov/IISNews/21288-Gov._Pritzker_Stay_at_Home_Order.pdf
Indiana
On March 25, 2020 an order issued by the Governor restricting the continued operation of all non-essential businesses in the state became effective. The order will remain in effect until April 6, 2020.
Indiana sites the guidance provided by the Department of Homeland Security, Memorandum on Identification of Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers During COVID-19 Response in determining which industries are “essential” and can therefore remain in operation; but Indiana also enhances the list.
The provision that includes landscape services is: Critical Trades - Building, construction, and other trades, including, but not limited to, plumbers, electricians, exterminators, operating engineers, cleaning and janitorial staff for commercial and governmental properties, security staff, HVAC, painting, moving and relocation services, and other service providers who provide services that are necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residences, Essential Activities, and Essential Businesses and Operations. https://www.in.gov/coronavirus/2496.htm
On March 24th, the IEDC stated in an email:
"Landscaping and lawn care service providers are considered essential businesses under the Governor’s Executive Order. We urge Indiana employers and businesses to use their best judgement in determining their ability to comply with social distancing requirements. Along with the Governor’s executive order, businesses should also abide by any orders or mandates established by local governments. All residents and businesses should continue to maintain best practices or implement policies as recommended by the CDC."
The Order: https://calendar.in.gov/site/gov/event/governor-orders-hoosiers-to-stay-home-in-fight-against-covid-19/
Iowa
On March 17, 2020 an order issued by the Governor restricting the continued operation of all non-life sustaining retail businesses in the state became effective. The order will remain in effect until April 17, 2020. The order does not restrict the landscape industry but limits “social gatherings” not to exceed 10 people.
The Order: https://governor.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/documents/Public%20Health%20Proclamation%20-%202020.03.17.pdf
Kansas
To date, no state order is in place that would impact landscape professionals
Kentucky
On March 23, 2020 an order issued by the Governor restricting the continued operation of all non-essential businesses in the state became effective. The order will remain in effect until April 17, 2020. The order does not restrict the landscape industry.
The order: https://governor.ky.gov/attachments/20200322_Executive-Order_2020-246_Retail.pdf
Louisiana
On March 23, 2020 an order issued by the Governor restricting the continued operation of all non-essential businesses in the state became effective.
Louisiana has followed the guidance provided by the Department of Homeland Security, Memorandum on Identification of Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers During COVID-19 Response in determining which industries are “essential” and can therefore remain in operation.
The provision that includes landscape services is: “Workers such as plumbers, electricians, exterminators, and other service providers who provide services that are necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residences”
In addition, NALP’s position can be read here which identifies the role the landscape industry is playing to protect other essential critical workers while also protecting public health and safety.
Order: https://gov.louisiana.gov/assets/Proclamations/2020/JBE-33-2020.pdf
Maine
On March 24, 2020 an order issued by the Governor restricting the continued operation of all non-essential businesses in the state became effective.
Maine has followed the guidance provided by the Department of Homeland Security, Memorandum on Identification of Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers During COVID-19 Response in determining which industries are “essential” and can therefore remain in operation.
The provision that includes landscape services is: “Workers such as plumbers, electricians, exterminators, and other service providers who provide services that are necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residences”
The Order: https://www.maine.gov/governor/mills/sites/maine.gov.governor.mills/files/inline-files/An%20Order%20Regarding%20Essential%20Businesses%20and%20Operations%20.pdf
Maryland
On March 23, 2020 an order issued by the Governor restricting the continued operation of all non-essential businesses in the state became effective.
The provision that includes landscape services is: Building and property maintenance companies, including without limitation plumbers, electricians, HVAC service companies, roofers, environmental services companies, exterminators, arborists, and landscapers.
Guidance Document: https://governor.maryland.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/OLC-Interpretive-Guidance-COVID19-04.pdf?fbclid=IwAR36DP1_5aVeuH-wAAdCMkIJnDQm3ne1PD0HrDLuf5Vfz7seSusMVR20P3Q
The Order: https://governor.maryland.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Gatherings-THIRD-AMENDED-3.23.20.pdf
Massachusetts
On March 24, 2020 an order issued by the Governor restricting the continued operation of all non-essential businesses in the state became effective. The order will remain in effect until April 7, 2020.
The provision that includes landscape services is: Workers such as plumbers, electricians, exterminators, inspectors and other service providers who provide services that are necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residences, construction sites and projects, and needed facilities
In addition, NALP’s position can be read here which identifies the role the landscape industry is playing to protect other essential critical workers while also protecting public health and safety.
Guidance Document: https://www.mass.gov/doc/covid-19-essential-services/download
The Order: https://www.mass.gov/doc/march-23-2020-essential-services-and-revised-gatherings-order/download
Michigan
On March 26 the Governor indicated during a press conference that landscape services are NOT deemed essential and that stiff penalties will be enforced by those that violate the order. NALP is seeking further clarification as to if this information covers all activities conducted by the landscape industry.
On March 24, 2020 an order issued by the Governor restricting the continued operation of all non-essential businesses in the state became effective. The order will remain in effect until April 13, 2020.
Michigan has followed the guidance provided by the Department of Homeland Security, Memorandum on Identification of Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers During COVID-19 Response in determining which industries are “essential” and can therefore remain in operation.
The provision that includes landscape services is: “Workers such as plumbers, electricians, exterminators, and other service providers who provide services that are necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residences”
In addition, NALP’s position can be read here which identifies the role the landscape industry is playing to protect other essential critical workers while also protecting public health and safety.
The Order: https://www.michigan.gov/whitmer/0,9309,7-387-90499_90705-522626--,00.html
Minnesota
On March 26, 2020 the Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association receive written communication confirming:
Landscape Maintenance Services, Construction, and Tree Care are listed on the NAICS list compiled by Governor Walz of "essential businesses." (See - NAICS code 5617 "Services to Buildings and Dwellings" on the Governor's list of critical business.) Note: MNLA has received express guidance from staff in the Governor's office that Landscape services (subcategory 561730) falls within this category.
On March 28, 2020 an order issued by the Governor restricting the continued operation of all non-essential businesses in the state became effective.The order will remain in effect until April 10, 2020.
Minnesota sites the guidance provided by the Department of Homeland Security, Memorandum on Identification of Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers During COVID-19 Response in determining which industries are “essential” and can therefore remain in operation; but Minnesota also enhances the list.
The provision that includes landscape services is: Construction and critical trades. This category includes workers in the skilled trades such as electricians, plumbers, HVAC and elevator technicians, and other related construction of all kind. This category also includes exterminators, cleaning and janitorial staff for commercial and governmental 8 properties, moving and relocation services, security staff, operating engineers, and all other service providers who provide services that are necessary to maintain the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of homes and residences and the Critical Sectors listed in this Executive Order.
The Order: https://mn.gov/governor/assets/EO%2020-20%20FINAL_tcm1055-424864.pdf
Mississippi
To date, no state order is in place that would impact landscape professionals
Missouri
To date, no state order is in place that would impact landscape professionals
The following localities have enacted restrictions on businesses:
Kansas City
On March 24, 2020 an order issued by the Mayor restricting the continued operation of all non-essential businesses in the state became effective. The order will remain in effect until April 23, 2020.
The provision that include landscape services is: Plumbers, electricians, exterminators, and other service providers who provide services that are necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residences, Essential Activities, and Essential Businesses;
In addition, NALP’s position can be read here which identifies the role the landscape industry is playing to protect other essential critical workers while also protecting public health and safety.
The Order: https://www.kcmo.gov/home/showdocument?id=4065
St. Louis
On March 23, 2020 an order issued by the Mayor restricting the continued operation of all non-essential businesses in the state became effective.The order will remain in effect until April 22, 2020.
The provision that include landscape services is: Plumbers, electricians, exterminators, and other service providers who provide services that are necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residences, Essential Activities, and Essential Businesses;
In addition, NALP’s position can be read here which identifies the role the landscape industry is playing to protect other essential critical workers while also protecting public health and safety.
The Order: https://www.stlouis-mo.gov/government/departments/health/communicable-disease/covid-19/documents/upload/Health-Commission-s-Order-5-03-21-2020.pdf
Montana
On March 26, 2020 the governor issued a Stay-at-Home Directive and temporarily closed all nonessential businesses, relying upon CISA guidance to establish parameters.
“The provision that includes landscape services is found in Section 11(h) Critical trades:
Building and Construction Tradesmen and Tradeswomen, and other trades including but not limited to plumbers, electricians, exterminators, cleaning and janitorial staff for commercial and governmental properties, security staff, operating engineers, HVAC, painting, moving and relocation services, and other service providers who provide services that are necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residences, Essential Activities, and Essential Businesses and Operations”
The order:
https://covid19.mt.gov/Portals/223/Documents/Stay%20at%20Home%20Directive.pdf?ver=2020-03-26-173332-177
Nebraska
To date, no state order is in place that would impact landscape professionals
Nevada
On March 20, 2020 an order issued by the Governor restricting the continued operation of all non-essential businesses in the state became effective.
The provision that includes landscape services is: Plumbers, electricians, exterminators, home security and other service providers who provide services necessary to maintain the safety, sanitation and essential operations of residences or businesses
In addition, NALP’s position can be read here which identifies the role the landscape industry is playing to protect other essential critical workers while also protecting public health and safety.
The Order: https://www.scribd.com/document/452574072/MARCH-20-2020-Gov-Sisolak-s-emergency-regulations#from_embed
New Hampshire
On March 26, 2020 the governor issued a stay-at-home order effective through May 4, 2020.
The provision that includes landscape services is found in the section entitled Food and Agriculture on Page 2:
“Commercial and residential landscaping services, including golf courses”
The order:
https://www.governor.nh.gov/news-media/emergency-orders/documents/emergency-order-17.pdf
New Jersey
On March 16, 2020 an order issued by the Governor restricting the continued operation of all non-essential businesses in the state became effective.
The provision that includes landscape services is: Examples of employees who need to be physically present at their work site in order to perform their duties include, but are not limited to, law enforcement officers, fire fighters, and other first responders, cashiers or store clerks, construction workers, utility workers, repair workers, warehouse workers, lab researchers, information technology maintenance workers, janitorial and custodial staff, and certain administrative staff.
In addition, NALP’s position can be read here which identifies the role the landscape industry is playing to protect other essential critical workers while also protecting public health and safety.
On March 22, 2020 the New Jersey Landscape Contractors Association received confirmation from the Governors office that landscaping may continue and on the same day the New Jersey Nursery and Landscape Association received guidance from the New Jersey Secretary of Agriculture that landscaping may continue in New Jersey provided they follow social distancing requirements laid out in the order.
The Order: https://files.constantcontact.com/f63391d4501/dc983593-1c3d-47db-8777-1f3602dbe727.pdf
Also, view more New Jersey resources here.
New Mexico
On March 23, 2020, the New Mexico Department of Health ordered all businesses and non-profits closed except for those deemed essential. The order does not specifically reference the CISA guidance, but uses language that is largely similar.
The provision that includes landscape services is: “Services necessary to maintain the safety and sanitation of residences or essential businesses including security services, custodial services, plumbers, electricians and other skilled trades.”
The order: https://cv.nmhealth.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/SignedPHO03-24-2019.pdf
New York
On March 22, 2020 an order issued by the Governor restricting the continued operation of all non-essential businesses in the state became effective.
The provision that includes landscape services is: Essential Services Necessary to Maintain the Safety, Sanitation and Essential Operations of Residences or Other Essential Businesses, Including: General Maintenance
In addition, NALP’s position can be read here which identifies the role the landscape industry is playing to protect other essential critical workers while also protecting public health and safety.
On March 24, 2020, NALP received the following guidance from the New York Department of Agriculture confirming the ability to continue performing landscape services as deemed essential:
Production, movement, maintenance, and sale of vegetable plants, nursery stock, trees, plants, and flowers at greenhouse and nursery operations.
Tree and shrub trimming and removal for disease, safety, and public health purposes.
The placement and ground maintenance of sod, landscaping plants, flowers, ornamental, and trees on residential and commercial grounds.
North Carolina
On March 25, 2020 an order issued by the Governor restricting mass gathering, schools and certain retail establishments and events. The order will remain in effect until April 24, 2020.
The order does not restrict the landscape industry. In addition, the North Carolina Department of Agriculture has made the following statement about critical and essential businesses:
Agriculture workers supporting the green industry to include nursery operations, garden centers, landscape and maintenance companies critical to the environmental and physical living conditions necessary in our communities
The Order: https://files.nc.gov/governor/documents/files/EO120.pdf
Wake County
On March 26, 2020, the County Board of Commissioners issued State of Emergency order restricting travel to essential activities. All businesses not providing essential services are closed.
The provision that includes landscape services is Section 10(m) stating that landscapers, lawn maintenance, foresters and related professions that able to conduct their business outside without public interaction are essential.
The order:
http://www.wakegov.com/covid19/Documents/FinalSignedSOE3-26-20.pdf?fbclid=IwAR08wCCvSttGoAYzZWz6VBR1yX2h_0wUf7csderdtz2kvxHVXNNXyvugPSI
North Dakota
To date, no state order is in place that would impact landscape professionals
Ohio
On March 23, 2020 an order issued by the Governor restricting the continued operation of all non-essential businesses in the state became effective. The order will remain in effect until April 6, 2020.
Ohio sites the guidance provided by the Department of Homeland Security, Memorandum on Identification of Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers During COVID-19 Response in determining which industries are “essential” and can therefore remain in operation; but Ohio also enhances the list.
The provision that includes landscape services is: Critical Trades - Building, construction, and other trades, including, but not limited to, plumbers, electricians, exterminators, operating engineers, cleaning and janitorial staff for commercial and governmental properties, security staff, HVAC, painting, moving and relocation services, and other service providers who provide services that are necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residences, Essential Activities, and Essential Businesses and Operations.
In addition, NALP’s position can be read here which identifies the role the landscape industry is playing to protect other essential critical workers while also protecting public health and safety.
Order: https://htv-prod-media.s3.amazonaws.com/files/stayathomeorder-1584906494.pdf
Oklahoma
On March 26, 2020 an order issued by the Governor restricting the continued operation of all non-essential businesses in the state became effective.
Oklahoma sites the guidance provided by the Department of Homeland Security, Memorandum on Identification of Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers During COVID-19 Response in determining which industries are “essential” and can therefore remain in operation; but Oklahoma also enhances the list.
The provision that includes landscape services is: Workers involved with home repair and maintenance including roofing, lawn care, foundation repair and similar businesses whose work is performed outdoors.
The Order: https://kfor.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2020/03/Click-here-for-a-list-of-essential-jobs..pdf
Oregon
On March 23, 2020 an order issued by the Governor restricting mass gathering, schools and certain retail establishments and events. The order does not restrict the landscape industry,
The Order: https://govsite-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/jkAULYKcSh6DoDF8wBM0_EO%2020-12.pdf
Pennsylvania
On March 23, 2020 an order issued by the Governor restricting the continued operation of all non-essential businesses in the state became effective.The provision that includes landscape service is: “Administrative Support & Services – Services to Buildings and Dwellings” - Includes Landscape services
List of Essential Businesses: https://s24526.pcdn.co/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/20200319-Life-Sustaining-Business-1.pdf
The Order: https://www.governor.pa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/2020.3.20-TWW-amendment-to-COVID-19-business-closure-order.pdf
Rhode Island
To date, no state order is in place that would impact landscape professionals
South Carolina
To date, no state order is in place that would impact landscape professionals
South Dakota
To date, no state order is in place that would impact landscape professionals
Tennessee
On March 23, 2020 an order issued by the Governor restricting mass gatherings, closing certain retail and in person service businesses and call for all other businesses to utilize alternative business models. The order will be in effect until April 6, 2020. The order does not restrict the landscape industry
The Order - https://www.tn.gov/governor/news/2020/3/22/gov--bill-lee-signs-executive-order-mandating-alternative-business-models-for-restaurants-and-gyms--lifts-alcohol-regulations.html
Texas
To date, no state order is in place that would impact landscape professionals.The state of Texas has indicated that any orders will be made by Counties and Cities
The following localities have enacted restrictions on businesses:
Dallas County - Shelter-in-place order issued - 3/23/2020
City of Austin
On March 24, 2020 the Mayor issued a Stay Home – Work Safe Order. In support of that order, the city issued guidance for the construction industry outlining critical infrastructure definitions and ordering businesses outside of those definitions to close.
The order does not include reference to landscaping as a critical infrastructure.
The order:
https://www.tnlaonline.org/uploads/7/7/5/3/77532106/construction-guidance-stay-home-order-03-24-20.pdf?utm_source=REGION+8+TRAVIS+COUNTY+MEMBER+UPDATE&utm_campaign=3a810ce026-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2017_11_16_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_2c1eff60c6-3a810ce026-48723812
Utah
To date, no state order is in place that would impact landscape professionals
Vermont
On March 24, 2020 an order issued by the Governor restricting the continued operation of all non-essential businesses in the state became effective. The order will be in effect until April 15, 2020.
The provision that includes landscape service is:
other building and property services for the safety, sanitation and operations of residences or other businesses.
The order:
https://governor.vermont.gov/sites/scott/files/documents/ADDENDUM%206%20TO%20EXECUTIVE%20ORDER%2001-20.pdf
Virginia
On March 24, 2020 an order issued by the Governor restricting the continued operation of some retail non-essential businesses in the state became effective. The order will remain in effect until April 23, 2020.
The order focuses on retail and does not restrict the landscape industry but does include the following: Professional businesses not listed above must utilize telework as much as possible. Where telework is not feasible, such businesses must adhere to social distancing recommendations, enhanced sanitizing procedures, and apply relevant workplace guidance from state and federal authorities, including and the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry.
The Order: https://www.governor.virginia.gov/newsroom/all-releases/2020/march/headline-855292-en.html
Washington
On March 23, 2020 an order issued by the Governor restricting the continued operation of all non-essential businesses in the state became effective. The order will remain in effect until April 6, 2020.
Washington has followed the guidance provided by the Department of Homeland Security, Memorandum on Identification of Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers During COVID-19 Response in determining which industries are “essential” and can therefore remain in operation.
The provision that includes landscape services is: Workers such as plumbers, electricians, exterminators, and other service providers who provide services that are necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residences”
In addition, NALP’s position can be read here which identifies the role the landscape industry is playing to protect other essential critical workers while also protecting public health and safety.
Click here to read a memorandum from Governor Jay Inslee.
The Order: https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/20-25%20Coronovirus%20Stay%20Safe-Stay%20Healthy%20%28tmp%29%20%28002%29.pdf
West Virginia
On March 24, 2020 an order issued by the Governor restricting the continued operation of all non-essential businesses in the state became effective.
The provision that includes landscape services is:
Critical trades – Building and Construction Tradesmen and Tradeswomen and other trades including but not limited to plumbers, electricians, exterminators cleaning, and janitorial staff for commercial and governmental properties, security staff and operating engineers, HVAC, painting, moving and relocation services and other service providers who provide services that are necessary to maintain the safety, sanitation and essential operation of residences, essential activities and essential businesses and operations.
The Order: https://www.wboy.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/43/2020/03/SKM_C45820032314020.pdf
Wisconsin
On March 24, the Governor issued a FAQ concerning the order. The Governor determined that landscape services are NOT essential. This is a disappointing development and we are continuing to communicate with the Governor to change their interpretation.
https://evers.wi.gov/Documents/COVID19/Safer%20at%20Home%20FAQ%203.24.20.pdf
Wyoming To date, no state order is in place that would impact landscape professionals