Tree Replacement Requirements: Chicago vs Oak Lawn
How do tree replacement requirements rules compare between Chicago, IL and Oak Lawn, IL?
Oak Lawn has fewer restrictions than Chicago.
Chicago, IL
Cook County
Chicago requires replacement of parkway trees damaged or removed during construction with a minimum 4-inch caliper B&B tree under MCC 10-32. The city also plants replacement trees for dead or dying parkway trees through the Bureau of Forestry.
View full Chicago rules →Oak Lawn, IL
Cook County
Oak Lawn replaces parkway trees removed by the Village through its Public Works forestry program. Development permits may impose replacement or tree-mitigation conditions for trees impacted by construction.
View full Oak Lawn rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chicago | Oak Lawn |
|---|---|---|
| Construction Replacement | Min. 4" caliper B&B for damaged trees > 4" DBH | - |
| New Development | Min. 2.5" caliper parkway trees (4" in Central Area) | - |
| Code Section | MCC 10-32, Zoning 17-11 | - |
| City Planting | Request through 311 | - |
| Appraised Value | Per MCC 10-32-200 if replacement not feasible | - |
| Parkway Replacement | - | Village program |
| Species List | - | Approved by Forestry |
| Development Conditions | - | May require mitigation |
| Private Removals | - | Generally no replacement |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Chicago FAQ
What size replacement tree is required when a parkway tree is damaged in Chicago?
A minimum 4-inch caliper B&B tree as directed by the Bureau of Forestry. If a suitable replacement is unavailable, the responsible party pays the tree's appraised value per MCC 10-32-200.
Can I request a new parkway tree in front of my Chicago home?
Yes. Contact 311 or use the CHI 311 app to request a new parkway tree planting. The Bureau of Forestry manages the planting program and selects appropriate species.
Oak Lawn FAQ
Will Oak Lawn replace the parkway tree that was removed?
Yes. The Village replants removed parkway trees on a seasonal schedule through the Public Works forestry program.
Can I choose the species?
You can express a preference, but Public Works selects from an approved list to maintain species diversity and local suitability.
Do I need to replant a tree I cut down on my own lot?
Not usually. Replacement requirements typically apply only when a development approval or variance imposes a tree-preservation condition.
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