Compilation of Rules and Regulations of the State of Georgia Department 310 - GEORGIA STATE BOARD OF LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS
Overview
The Georgia State Board of Landscape Architects (Department 310) regulates the practice of landscape architecture in Georgia. It establishes rules for licensing, examinations, continuing education, professional conduct, and enforcement to ensure qualified professionals provide landscape architecture services safely and competently.
Key Areas Covered
1. Organization of the Board
The Board consists of five members appointed by the Governor.
It holds regular meetings and elects a chairman annually.
The Board's official office is managed by the Division Director, who also serves as Secretary.
2. Applications and Examinations
Applicants must submit a formal application, pay fees, and demonstrate required supervised experience (typically 18 months full-time or 36 months part-time).
Candidates must pass the national Landscape Architect Registration Examination (LARE) plus a Georgia-specific exam covering state laws and environmental concerns.
ADA accommodations are available upon request.
3. Fees
Fees are established for applications, examinations, license renewals, temporary licenses, and other administrative matters.
4. Registration and Licensing
Upon approval, the Board issues a certificate of registration that must be renewed biennially (every two years) on December 31 of even-numbered years.
Late renewals are accepted within a six-month grace period but require additional fees.
Lapsed licenses can be reinstated by paying fees and completing required continuing education (CE) based on how long the license has been expired.
5. Temporary Licenses
The Board may issue temporary licenses for non-resident landscape architects for specific projects, usually valid up to two years.
6. Reciprocity
Licenses may be granted to landscape architects licensed in other states with equivalent standards, subject to Board approval.
7. Use of Seals and Rubber Stamps
Licensed landscape architects must use an official seal or rubber stamp on professional documents, such as plans and specifications, to certify their authenticity.
8. Certificates of Organization for Firms
Firms offering landscape architecture services in Georgia must be under the direct supervision of a registered Georgia landscape architect.
They must file a Certificate of Organization with the Board and pay applicable fees before practicing or advertising such services.
9. Continuing Education (CE)
Licensees must complete 12 hours of Board-approved continuing education every two years to maintain their license.
CE can include courses, seminars, academic classes (not for degree credit), published papers, or professional service.
Documentation of completed CE must be maintained for at least four years and may be audited by the Board.
Exemptions from CE may be granted for hardship, health reasons, or for licensees over 65 years old with 25 years of practice.
10. Exceptions
Certain activities may be exempt from licensure requirements, such as incidental landscape work performed by architects or contractors within the scope of their licenses.
11. Procedural Rules
The Board follows procedural rules for hearings, disciplinary actions, license issuance, and other administrative matters to ensure transparency and due process.
Summary Table
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Board Organization | Composition, meetings, leadership |
| Applications & Exams | Experience requirements, national and state exams |
| Fees | Application, renewal, late fees, temporary license fees |
| Registration | Issuance, renewal, late renewal, reinstatement |
| Temporary Licenses | Short-term licensing for non-residents |
| Reciprocity | License recognition from other states |
| Seals and Stamps | Mandatory use on official documents |
| Firm Certificates | Supervision and filing requirements for firms |
| Continuing Education | 12 hours every 2 years, approved courses, exemptions |
| Exceptions | Incidental landscape work exemptions |
| Procedural Rules | Hearings, disciplinary process, license administration |
Importance
Ensures that only qualified landscape architects practice in Georgia.
Protects public health and safety by enforcing professional standards.
Promotes ongoing professional development through continuing education.
Provides clear rules for licensing, enforcement, and disciplinary action.
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