Chicago vs Orland Park
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Chicago, IL and Orland Park, IL?
Orland Park has fewer restrictions than Chicago.
Chicago, IL
Cook County
Chicago protects parkway trees under MCC Chapter 10-32 and requires permits for removal of city trees. Private tree removal on private property is generally unregulated, but trees in the parkway (public right-of-way) are city property managed by the Bureau of Forestry.
View full Chicago rules →Orland Park, IL
Cook County
Orland Park requires permits for removal of significant trees on private residential property and prohibits unauthorized removal of parkway trees. Replacement may be required for healthy trees removed.
View full Orland Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chicago | Orland Park |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | MCC 10-32 | - |
| Parkway Trees | City property - removal requires Bureau of Forestry authorization | Village-only removal |
| Replacement Standard | Min. 4-inch caliper B&B for damaged trees > 4" DBH | - |
| Notification | 24 hours for suspected construction damage | - |
| Fine Range | $500 - $2,500 per tree + appraised value | - |
| Permit Threshold | - | Significant trees (~6-8 in DBH) |
| Replacement | - | Often required |
| Dead/Hazard | - | Usually allowed w/ notice |
| Contact | - | Public Works (708) 403-6350 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Chicago FAQ
Can I remove a tree from the parkway in front of my Chicago home?
No. Parkway trees are city property under MCC 10-32. Only the Bureau of Forestry can authorize removal. Contact 311 to request tree evaluation or removal.
Can I remove trees on my own private property in Chicago?
Generally yes. Chicago does not require permits for removing trees on private residential property. However, trees in the parkway (between sidewalk and street) are city property and cannot be touched without authorization.
What happens if a contractor damages a parkway tree during construction?
The contractor must notify the city within 24 hours. If the tree must be removed, it must be replaced with a minimum 4-inch caliper tree, and the contractor may be charged the appraised value under MCC 10-32-200.
Orland Park FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Orland Park?
For significant trees (typically over 6-8 inches diameter) on private property, yes. Dead or hazardous trees may be removed with notification.
Can I cut down a parkway tree in Orland Park?
No. Parkway trees are village property. Only Public Works arborists may remove parkway trees.
Do I have to plant a new tree if I remove one in Orland Park?
Often yes. Healthy trees removed may require inch-for-inch replacement or a fee paid to the village's tree fund.
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