As of May 19, 2010 - Update on the Landscape Architecture Act 0960730:
In early fall of 2009 the Governor of Illinois signed into law the Landscape Architecture Act – 096070. Since that time there have been a number of activities in efforts to finalize our newly upgraded law. While the process is not complete we want to provide you with an update on its status.
Since the time of the Governor's signature, the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules (JCAR) and the Illinois Landscape Architectural Review Board has been working on the final rule making. We currently anticipate JCAR to provide a ruling in June of 2010 at which time we will have 45 days to respond with comments. We should expect the rules making process to be complete by the end of the year, 2010.
One question we receive quite often is in regarding the Continuing Education (CE) mandates. The requirement will be for 16 CE hours for each renewal period. Of those 16 CE’s, 10 hours must be completed in person or with interactive internet seminars. The other 6 CE’s can be from internet courses, self study courses or college courses. Presentations or publishing related to the field of landscape architecture may also be considered.
The requirement of insurance while not finalized looks to be based on those engaged in actual practice. Landscape architects not engaged in the practice of landscape architecture may not need to have insurance to hold the license of landscape architect. More information on this topic will follow.
Our initials for licensed landscape architects will continue to be RLA (registered landscape architect) even though it is now a license instead of registration. Therefore, individuals should continue using the RLA after your name.
The standard for the required stamp will be provided to meet the State of Illinois rules.
There will be additional information to come and we will provide you with updates as we receive them; thank you for your support and patience.
As of August 25, 2009, landscape architects are now designated as design professionals in the State of Illinois. They have joined architects, engineers and surveyors on this list. This allows landscape architects to meet certain governmental purchasing requirements and participate as prime consultants on a broader range of projects.
The term “Licensed” has replaced “Registered” in the law. Because licenses are issued by the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation rather than registrations, this word change better fits current state procedures. The initials used to designate a Licensed Landscape Architect, whether the initials used are LLA, LA or RLA, will be sorted out in time.
Landscape architects in Illinois are now required to have a seal. Plans, specifications, and reports related to landscape architectural practice and prepared by the landscape architect or under the LA’s supervision are to be stamped with the newly authorized seal. This not only matches the procedures of neighboring states and our allied professions, but having a uniform seal clears up confusion caused when local jurisdictions require stamped documents. The final design of the seal will be determined by the state in the coming months.
Professional liability insurance is now required for landscape architects. Similar to the seal design, insurance details will be determined in the future.
Each year, six hours of continuing education is now required of licensed landscape architects. Recording procedures and guidelines for determining which education sessions qualify will be decided and published by the state.
VIEW THE TEXT FOR OUR NEW LAW - Public Act (096-0730)
State of Illinois - Division of Professional Regulation for Landscape Architects
If you would like to learn more about our licensure efforts, please contact our Public Service Committee.
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