Tree Removal Permits: Bolingbrook vs Joliet
How do tree removal permits rules compare between Bolingbrook, IL and Joliet, IL?
Bolingbrook and Joliet have similar restriction levels.
Bolingbrook, IL
Will County
Will County has no countywide tree-removal permit for private property. Bolingbrook, Plainfield, Romeoville, Frankfort, and Lockport require permits for trees 6 in+ DBH in parkways or on protected lots. Oak wilt and emerald ash borer (EAB) quarantine rules also apply.
View full Bolingbrook rules →Joliet, IL
Will County
The City of Joliet requires permits for the removal of trees on public property and in the public right-of-way. Parkway trees are city property managed by the Forestry Division, and only certified arborists may perform work on them. Private property trees do not require a city permit for removal, but tree service businesses must hold a valid Tree Service Business License.
View full Joliet rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bolingbrook | Joliet |
|---|---|---|
| County Rule | None for private trees | - |
| Parkway Trees | Always city-managed | City property; permit required for any work |
| Typical Threshold | 6 to 12 in DBH | - |
| EAB Quarantine | 8 IL Adm. Code 240 | - |
| Oak Pruning | Avoid Apr 1 to Oct 1 | - |
| Private Trees | - | No city permit required for residential removal |
| Arborist Required | - | Certified arborist required for parkway tree work |
| Dead Tree Removal | - | City removes dead/dying parkway trees at no cost |
| Business License | - | Tree Service Business License required for companies |
| Emergency Protocol | - | Expedited process for hazardous tree removal |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bolingbrook FAQ
Can I cut down a tree in my Joliet backyard?
Yes, Joliet does not regulate private backyard trees, but parkway (street) trees are managed by Joliet Public Works and require a city permit. Avoid pruning oaks during April to October to prevent oak wilt.
Do I need a permit to remove an ash tree killed by emerald ash borer?
Most Will County municipalities waive permit fees for confirmed EAB-killed ash trees. You must still follow the Illinois Dept. of Agriculture quarantine on moving ash wood outside the regulated zone.
Joliet FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree on my private property in Joliet?
Generally no. The city does not require a permit for removing trees on private residential property unless the removal is part of a development project.
Can I remove a parkway tree in front of my Joliet home?
No. Parkway trees are city property. Contact the Forestry Division if you have concerns about a parkway tree. The city will assess and remove dead or dying trees at no cost.
Does a tree service need a license to operate in Joliet?
Yes. Tree service businesses must obtain a Tree Service Business License from the city. Only certified arborists may work on parkway trees.
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