Des Plaines vs Skokie
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Des Plaines, IL and Skokie, IL?
Des Plaines has fewer restrictions than Skokie.
Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Street trees in Des Plaines are city-owned and require authorization for removal or trimming. Private property trees may require a permit for protected species. Contact Public Works.
View full Des Plaines rules →Skokie, IL
Cook County
Removal of parkway trees in Skokie requires approval from the Village Forestry Division — residents cannot remove parkway trees. Private trees over a certain diameter may require a permit depending on zoning district. Emergency removal of hazardous trees is permitted.
View full Skokie rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Des Plaines | Skokie |
|---|---|---|
| Street Trees | City-owned — authorization required for removal | - |
| Cook County | Permit required for large trees on unimproved land | - |
| Private Trees | Generally unrestricted — check for preservation rules | - |
| Contact | Public Works: 847-391-5390 | Forestry (847) 933-8427 |
| Parkway Tree Removal | - | Village only |
| Private Tree Permit | - | May apply at 10+ inch DBH |
| Emergency Removal | - | Allowed, report to village |
| Contractor License | - | Required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Des Plaines FAQ
Do I need a permit to cut down a tree in Des Plaines?
Street trees in Des Plaines are city-owned and require authorization for removal or trimming. Private property trees may require a permit for protected species. Contact Public Works.
What are the tree removal rules in Des Plaines?
Street Trees: City-owned — authorization required for removal. Cook County: Permit required for large trees on unimproved land. Private Trees: Generally unrestricted — check for preservation rules. Contact: Public Works: 847-391-5390.
Skokie FAQ
Can I cut down a tree in my yard in Skokie?
For trees on your private property, contact Community Development to confirm whether a permit is needed. Parkway trees cannot be removed by residents under any circumstances.
Who removes a dead parkway tree in Skokie?
The Village Forestry Division removes dead, diseased, and hazardous parkway trees at village expense. Report concerns by calling (847) 933-8427.
What if a tree is an emergency hazard?
You may remove a genuinely hazardous tree on your property to prevent imminent injury, but document the condition and notify the village. For parkway trees, call Skokie Public Works immediately.
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