Tree Replacement Requirements: Chicago vs Schaumburg
How do tree replacement requirements rules compare between Chicago, IL and Schaumburg, IL?
Chicago and Schaumburg have similar restriction levels.
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 →Schaumburg, IL
Cook County
Schaumburg requires replacement plantings when significant trees are removed. Replacement ratios vary by tree size, with heritage-sized trees requiring higher ratios to mitigate canopy loss.
View full Schaumburg rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chicago | Schaumburg |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Standard Ratio | - | 1:1 replacement |
| Heritage Tree Ratio | - | 2:1 or 3:1 |
| Min Replacement Size | - | 2.5-inch caliper (deciduous) |
| Tree Fund | - | Fee-in-lieu when space limited |
| Warranty | - | 2-year survival required |
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.
Schaumburg FAQ
How many replacement trees do I need to plant?
For standard significant trees (8–24 inch DBH), the ratio is 1:1. For heritage-sized trees over 24 inches, replacement ratios increase to 2:1 or 3:1 depending on species and circumstances.
What if I don't have room to plant replacement trees?
When on-site planting is not feasible, you may contribute to the Village's Tree Replacement Fund. The fee covers Village-managed tree plantings in public spaces.
What species can I use as replacements?
Replacement trees must come from the Village's approved species list, which emphasizes native and climate-adapted varieties. Contact Public Works or the Village Forester for the current list.
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