Arlington Heights vs Tinley Park
How do tree trimming rules compare between Arlington Heights, IL and Tinley Park, IL?
Arlington Heights and Tinley Park have similar restriction levels.
Arlington Heights, IL
Cook County
Arlington Heights requires property owners to maintain trees on their property so branches do not obstruct sidewalks, streets, or sight lines. The Village's Forestry Division manages public parkway trees and has authority over trimming and removal of trees in the public right-of-way. Residents may not trim or remove parkway trees without Village authorization.
View full Arlington Heights rules →Tinley Park, IL
Cook County
Tinley Park requires property owners to keep branches trimmed above sidewalks (8 feet) and streets (13 feet 6 inches). Parkway trees along public streets are the village's responsibility to trim, though owners may request approval for work.
View full Tinley Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington Heights | Tinley Park |
|---|---|---|
| Sidewalk Clearance | 8 feet minimum | 8 feet minimum |
| Street Clearance | 14 feet minimum | 13 ft 6 in minimum |
| Parkway Trees | Village-managed, no unauthorized trimming | Village responsibility |
| Emerald Ash Borer | Active management program | - |
| Code Enforcement | (847) 368-5200 | - |
| Hazard Branches | - | Must remove promptly |
| Contact | - | Public Works (708) 444-5500 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington Heights FAQ
Can I trim a tree in the parkway in front of my house?
No. Parkway trees are Village property managed by the Forestry Division. Contact Public Works to request trimming or report hazardous conditions. Unauthorized trimming may result in fines.
How far must tree branches be from the sidewalk?
Branches must maintain at least 8 feet of clearance over sidewalks and 14 feet over streets. Property owners are responsible for trimming private trees to maintain these clearances.
Who do I call about a dead or dangerous tree?
For parkway trees, contact Public Works/Forestry through the Village at (847) 368-5200. For private property trees threatening public areas, Code Enforcement can address the situation.
Tinley Park FAQ
Who trims the tree in front of my Tinley Park house?
Parkway trees (between sidewalk and curb) are typically the village's responsibility. Private trees on your property are your responsibility. Contact Public Works for parkway tree concerns.
Can I trim my neighbor's tree that hangs over my yard?
Under Illinois common law, you can trim branches back to the property line at your own expense, but you cannot cross onto their property or damage the tree's health.
What about a dead branch hanging over the sidewalk?
Dead or hazardous branches must be removed promptly. If over a village parkway tree, report to Public Works. If on your private tree, you are responsible for trimming.
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