Chicago Tree Removal Permits and Ordinance

Last Updated: 23 September 2020

Chicago city takes care of trees and conserving the environment through tree ordinance codes. This stipulates what should be followed when handling trees in the city.

Through the Chicago tree ordinance, you are required to obtain a permit to remove some trees.

In this summary, you will find information about private trees, public trees, getting a permit, regulations associated with permits and which trees require a permit.

Remember: Chicago tree ordinance guide is comprehensive providing additional information even on related tree matters.

No. You are not allowed to remove your neighbor’s overhanging tree without getting their permission.

However, you can trim any branches overhanging your property. Make sure you return all the branches to them.

However, if it is tree removal, make sure that you get their consent and you are not breaching any tree preservation codes.

Trees growing on the streets of Champaign may be removed but under special situations.

• When a tree is either dying or dead such that it becomes a hazard.
• When there is overcrowding that can have adverse effects on other trees.
• In case there is a need to create room for construction.
• If the tree is causing an obstruction on traffic or movement and there is a need for removal.
• When replacing a tree species with a better variety.

All the trees growing on any public land from streets, parkways, and parks are owned and managed by the city administration.

As a result, all the work required on these trees is coordinated by the Chicago Bureau of Forestry. There are several things that might fall under this which include pruning, trimming, watering, treatment, and removal under some circumstances.

Circumstances under which public trees may be removed in the city of Chicago include the following.

• If there is a major development taking placed and approved by the city administration.
• In case the trees are diseased and infested by pests such that they become a hazard to either the public or other trees.
• If the trees are dead
• If the trees are interfering with traffic lights or obstructing traffic.

In case the trees are interfering with public utility systems such as gas lines, power lines, and sewer lines.

Yes. It is against the law to remove or damage any trees that are categorized as protected including public trees in the city of Chicago.

Anyone found guilty of such an offense will pay heavy fines as determined by the Bureau of forestry.