Code of Conduct for Conferences & Events
Thank you for joining us at an Arbor Day Foundation + Utility Arborist Association conference or event. We’re committed to creating a safe, welcoming, and productive environment for everyone. This Event Code of Conduct (“Code of Conduct”) outlines expectations for all participants, including members, non-members, employees, speakers, sponsors, vendors, contractors, volunteers, and guests (“Attendees”).
We all share responsibility for maintaining a professional and respectful atmosphere. By attending or participating in any Arbor Day Foundation + Utility Arborist Association conference, event, or related space—including mobile apps and social media—you agree to follow this Code of Conduct.
Our Expectations
By participating in Arbor Day Foundation + Utility Arborist Association conferences or events, you agree to:
1. Respect our policy prohibiting harassment.
Harassment of any kind is not tolerated. This includes unwelcome sexual attention, offensive or demeaning behavior, sharing explicit or violent imagery or language, unwanted physical contact, stalking, intrusive photography or recordings, or any conduct that creates an intimidating or hostile environment.
2. Respect our policy prohibiting discrimination.
Discrimination is strictly prohibited. Offensive remarks, jokes, or actions based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability, age, pregnancy, or veteran status are unacceptable.
3. Respect our policy prohibiting anti-competitive conduct.
The Arbor Day Foundation + the Utility Arborist Association value fair competition. Activities that reduce competition or restrain trade—such as discussions about non-public, competitively sensitive business information (e.g., pricing, costs, margins, terms of sale)—are not permitted. If a conversation could raise antitrust concerns, you must end it immediately.
4. Respect our commitment to safety.
Our venues are designed for your safety. Attendees must follow all instructions from staff and vendors, comply with venue rules on alcohol, substances, and weapons, and adhere to any applicable laws. If alcohol is available, we expect all Attendees to drink responsibly and in a manner that does not endanger themselves or others. Disruptive behavior during sessions or events will not be tolerated.
5. Respect privacy and confidentiality.
Do not share personal information, private conversations, or confidential business details without consent. Unauthorized photography, recording, or distribution of sensitive content is prohibited.
6. Respect intellectual property.
Attendees must honor copyrights, trademarks, and other intellectual property rights when sharing materials or presentations. Do not reproduce or distribute content without permission.
7. Consent to photography and recording.
By attending an Arbor Day Foundation + Utility Arborist Association event, you consent to being photographed or recorded by the Arbor Day Foundation and/or the Utility Arborist Association for promotional purposes. If you have concerns, please notify event staff.
Additional Requirement for Vendors and Sponsors
Any vendor or sponsor hosting an event that is open to Attendees and held in conjunction with an Arbor Day Foundation + Utility Arborist Association conference agrees to abide by this Code of Conduct. This ensures a consistent, respectful experience across all conference-related activities.
Reporting and Enforcement
The Arbor Day Foundation + the Utility Arborist Association are committed to enforcing this Code of Conduct. Violations may result in removal from the event without refund, refusal to allow attendance at future conferences or events, and, if necessary, referral to legal authorities. If you experience or witness unacceptable behavior, please report it immediately to any member of the Arbor Day Foundation or Utility Arborist Association event staff. Retaliation against anyone who reports misconduct in good faith is strictly prohibited.
This Code of Conduct is intended to supplement any other applicable Arbor Day Foundation and/or Utility Arborist Association policies and may be revised at any time without further notice. We intend for the policies and provisions to be compliant and construed in accordance with applicable law.