Standards of Excellence

At Landscape Ontario, we believe the landscape trades thrive when members lead with integrity, professionalism and care for people and the environment. The following principles and standards reflect the best of our industry today, while inspiring us all to keep raising the bar for the future.

1. Core Ethical Principles

• Act with honesty, integrity and professionalism.
• Foster trust and confidence in the horticulture profession.
• Serve clients with fairness, transparency and respect.
• Commit to continuous learning and improvement.
• Uphold the reputation of the profession and the association.

2. Professional Conduct Standards

A. Commitment to Clients

• • Provide honest, informed advice based on the best available science and practices.  
  • Communicate transparently and ensure marketing and advertising are accurate and not misleading.  
  • Deliver quality goods and services in accordance with agreed specifications that meet or exceed the Canadian Landscape Standard (CLS)
  • Respect client confidentiality and maintain professionalism at all times.

B. Commitment to Employees

• • Follow lawful and ethical HR practices as part of building an inclusive, respectful and equitable workplace culture.
  • Promote equal opportunity in employment and training, free from discrimination based on race, gender, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or other grounds protected by Ontario’s Human Rights Code.
  • Encourage staff training, skill-building and participation in professional development.
  • Promote and implement strong safety practices across all operations, with the goal of injury prevention and continuous improvement.

C. Commitment to Fellow Members and the Industry

• • Maintain respectful, honest and cooperative relationships with peers, vendors, manufacturers and suppliers.
  • Refrain from making false or malicious statements about other members.  
  • Avoid recruiting employees from other companies at LO events.
  • Support peers through mentorship, constructive feedback and collaborative growth.

D. Commitment to the Environment

• • Operate in an environmentally responsible and sustainable manner.
  • Use products, materials and chemicals according to manufacturer and regulatory guidelines.
  • Strive to reduce negative environmental impact through innovation and stewardship.

E. Commitment to Legal and Ethical Compliance

• • Comply with all applicable municipal, provincial and federal laws and regulations. 
  • Adhere to contractual obligations in both letter and spirit.
  • Maintain valid business licenses, WSIB coverage (if not exempt) and adequate liability insurance.

F. Commitment to the Association 

• • Adhere to LO’s by-laws.
  • Strive to participate in continuing education and professional certifications.