YardCareDirectory

Illinois Tree Removal Permit Requirements

LOCAL RULES VARY

No statewide permit. Chicago and many suburbs have significant tree ordinances.

Issuing authority: City or village public works or parks department
Permit Fee
$50–$200 in regulated municipalities
Processing Time
5–15 business days
Protected Species
3
City Rules Listed
3
Protected Species in IL
Bur OakWhite OakShagbark Hickory
These species commonly trigger permit requirements or stricter review in Illinois jurisdictions. Check with your specific city — protections vary by municipality.
Common Exemptions
  • +Dead or diseased trees
  • +Trees under 4 inches DBH
  • +Storm emergency removals

Exemptions still often require documentation. Bring photos, contractor assessments, or an ISA-certified arborist report to support a hazard or disease claim.

Heritage Trees

Chicago maintains a notable trees program. Several suburbs have heritage tree lists.

Penalties for Unpermitted Removal

Fines up to $2,500 per tree in Chicago and major suburbs.

Rules by City in Illinois

Chicago

Trees on public property or in parkways require permits. Private property trees over 10 inches DBH require notification in many zones.

Fee: $50 application feeChicago Forestry maintains a street tree program — parkway trees are city property.
Evanston

Significant trees require permits. Trees over 12 inches DBH require an arborist report.

Fee: $50 per treeReplacement required at 2:1 caliper.
Oak Park

Protected trees (over 8 inches DBH) require permits. Heritage trees require village board approval.

Fee: $40 feeFrank Lloyd Wright historic district adds additional review.
Tips for Illinois Homeowners
  1. Parkway trees in front of your property are city property in Chicago and virtually every suburb — do not touch them without city approval.
  2. The Dutch elm disease management program means elm removal requires coordination with the city forester in many areas.
Find tree services in Illinois that handle permits
Licensed professionals know local rules and will pull permits for you.
Tree Services in Illinois