Tree Ordinances: Chicago vs Evanston
How do tree ordinances rules compare between Chicago, IL and Evanston, IL?
Chicago and Evanston have similar restriction levels.
Chicago, IL
Cook County
The City of Chicago protects trees through the Chicago Municipal Code and the Bureau of Forestry within the Department of Streets and Sanitation. Parkway trees (street trees in the public right-of-way) are city property and cannot be removed, pruned, or damaged without authorization. Private property trees over 10 inches in diameter require a tree removal permit when removal is associated with development. The city's urban canopy goal aims to increase tree coverage to 20% or more.
View full Chicago rules →Evanston, IL
Cook County
Cook County Chapter 126 (Tree Preservation, Landscaping and Screening) governs tree protection during development. Developers must submit tree surveys. Construction root zone protections apply. The ordinance covers landscaping and screening requirements.
View full Evanston rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chicago | Evanston |
|---|---|---|
| Parkway Trees | City property; unauthorized removal or damage prohibited | - |
| Private Tree Permit | Required for trees over 10 inches DBH with development projects | - |
| Urban Canopy Goal | Increase coverage to 20%+; currently approximately 17% | - |
| Fines | $500 to $5,000 per tree for unauthorized parkway tree work | - |
| Management | Bureau of Forestry, Department of Streets and Sanitation | - |
| Mitigation | Replacement planting or tree fund payment | - |
| Code | - | Chapter 126 |
| Development | - | Tree survey required |
| Root Zones | - | Protection required |
| Screening | - | Required for new development |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Chicago FAQ
Can I remove a parkway tree in front of my house in Chicago?
No, parkway trees are city property and cannot be removed without authorization from the Bureau of Forestry. If you have concerns about a parkway tree, contact 311 to request an assessment.
Do I need a permit to remove a tree on my private property in Chicago?
A permit is required for trees over 10 inches in diameter when removal is associated with a building permit or development project. For trees not connected to development, check current city requirements.
How do I request a new tree to be planted on my parkway?
You can request a new parkway tree through 311 or the Chicago Bureau of Forestry. The city plants trees at no charge to property owners, subject to available funding and appropriate planting conditions.
Evanston FAQ
What tree protections exist during construction in Cook County?
Chapter 126 requires tree surveys for development projects and protection of root zones during construction. Damage to protected trees results in fines.
Are there landscaping requirements for new development?
Yes. Chapter 126 requires landscaping and screening for new developments, particularly buffering between residential and commercial/industrial uses.
Compare other topics
See how Chicago and Evanston compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool