Landscape Architects
The practice of the profession of landscape architecture is defined as performing services in connection with the development of land areas where, and to the extent that the dominant purpose of such services is the preservation, enhancement or determination of proper land uses, natural land features, ground cover and planting, naturalistic and aesthetic values, the settings, approaches or environment for structures or other improvements, natural drainage and the consideration and determination of inherent problems of the land relating to the erosion, wear and tear, blight or other hazards. This practice shall include the location and arrangement of such tangible objects and features as are incidental and necessary to the purposes outlined herein but shall not include the design of structures or facilities with separate and self-contained purposes such as are ordinarily included in the practice of engineering or architecture; and shall not include the making of land surveys or final land plats for official approval or recording.
Landscape Architecture
What You Should Know About Landscape Architects and Their Services
What is a landscape architect, and what services
do they offer?
A New York licensed landscape architect provides services
related to the development of land areas. This includes
preparing drawings and specifications in conformance
with governing codes and regulations to ensure that
land use, plant materials, grading, drainage, and
the location and settings for structures and other
improvements are appropriate.
What credentials does a New York licensed
landscape architect have?
Generally, a New York licensed landscape architect
has earned licensure by completing a four-year professional
landscape architecture degree and four years of experience.
Other combinations of education and experience may
also be acceptable for licensure. These professionals
have also passed the national landscape architecture
licensing examination.
When would I use the services of a landscape
architect?
Many municipalities require a landscape architect
to place a seal on portions of land use plans submitted
for approval.
You might retain a landscape architect to provide
the following:
- Advice on development of a parcel of land, whether for residential, commercial or institutional/public use, including preservation and conservation projects
- Plans for site improvements around new or existing residential or commercial structures
- Environmental impact statements and the processing of zoning and planning applications through government agencies
- Designs for parks, public spaces and recreational facilities
- Neighborhood, community, or regional land use plans
Who may use the title "Landscape Architect"
and provide landscape architectural services?
To use the title "Landscape Architect" in
New York State, an individual must be licensed by
the New York State Education Department.
Landscape architectural services may only be provided
by licensees practicing alone, in partnerships, or
as professional corporations (PCs or LLPs). With limited
exceptions, no other types of businesses may offer
landscape architectural services.
What should I expect as a client of a landscape
architect?
You should expect to be provided with the following:
- proof of the landscape architect's qualifications
- names of former clients as references
- a clear and complete description of the services to be provided
- a schedule of work and the related fees
- courteous and professional services, tailored to your needs
What can I do to ensure a good professional
relationship with my landscape architect?
Work with your landscape architect from the
inception of the project. Make your requirements known
as clearly and as thoroughly as possible, so your
landscape architect can design to suit both your budget
and your needs.
If you are uncertain about anything, ask questions.
Always insist on a written contract that accurately reflects the following:
- a description of the work to be done
- a work schedule
- the amount and terms of payments of the landscape architect's fees
- the responsibilities of the parties to the contract
How do I locate a landscape architect?
Check with friends and colleagues who have used a
landscape architect's services; you may also look
under "Landscape Architects" in the yellow
pages of your phone book. In addition, professional
organizations may be able to identify their members
who specialize in your area of need.
The State Board for Landscape Architecture cannot refer you to a particular licensee.
What questions should individuals with disabilities
ask about accessing services?
Ask such questions as whether the service location
is physically accessible (curb cuts, ramps, restrooms,
etc.) as well as whether there is a Telecommunication
Device for the Deaf (TDD) and parking for people with
disabilities. You may also ask if the practitioner
makes house calls.
Verifying
a New York license:
New York landscape architects must display a current
New York registration certificate; this certificate
lists the professional's name, address, and dates
of the registration period. Landscape architects must
reregister every three years to practice in New York.
Some professionals also display their original New
York license, diploma, licenses from other states,
and membership certificates.
Landscape
Architects NY Chapter
http://www.nyasla.org/index.php
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