April 10, 2017 — According to a press release from the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA), landscape architecture licensure is now law in the District of Columbia. On April 7, Law Number L21-0249 passed the final step of U.S. Congressional review and is now in the process of being implemented.

Nancy C. Somerville, Hon. ASLA, executive vice president and CEO of ASLA, said, “Licensure is a critical government function. A substantial body of evidence proves that landscape architectural services have a significant impact on public health, safety, and welfare. Landscape architects lead the way on initiatives such as designing to conserve water and protect water quality, managing stormwater runoff, planning cutting-edge transportation corridors, and designing parks and recreation projects that promote active lifestyles. Now all 50 states and the District of Columbia have licensure.”

The legislation adds landscape architecture representatives to the newly renamed Board of Architecture, Interior Design and Landscape Architecture. 


Founded in 1899, the American Society of Landscape Architects is the national professional association for landscape architects, representing more than 15,000 members in 49 professional chapters and 72 student chapters. Members of the Society use “ASLA” after their names to denote membership and their commitment to the highest ethical standards of the profession. Landscape architects lead the stewardship, planning and design of our built and natural environments; the Society’s mission is to advance landscape architecture through advocacy, communication, education and fellowship.