Tree Replacement Requirements: Des Plaines vs Schaumburg
How do tree replacement requirements rules compare between Des Plaines, IL and Schaumburg, IL?
Des Plaines has fewer restrictions than Schaumburg.
Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Des Plaines typically requires replacement of removed parkway trees and significant trees lost during development, generally on a 1:1 caliper-inch basis. The City Forester specifies acceptable species and planting standards.
View full Des Plaines 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 | Des Plaines | Schaumburg |
|---|---|---|
| Replacement Ratio | 1:1 caliper inch typical | - |
| Approved Species | Forester list - native preferred | - |
| Banned Species | Callery pear, ash, silver maple | - |
| Fee-in-Lieu | Sometimes permitted | - |
| Inspection | Required at planting | - |
| 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.
Des Plaines FAQ
How many trees do I need to plant if I remove one?
Typically enough to replace the caliper inches removed. A 12-inch tree removed equals 12 inches of new plantings (e.g., four 3-inch trees).
What species can I plant?
Use the City Forester's approved species list. Native and diverse species like oak, hackberry, Kentucky coffeetree are encouraged; callery pear and ash are typically prohibited.
Can I pay a fee instead of planting?
In some cases, fee-in-lieu is permitted to fund city tree-planting efforts. Confirm eligibility with the City Forester.
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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