Protected Tree Species: Des Plaines vs Skokie
How do protected tree species rules compare between Des Plaines, IL and Skokie, IL?
Des Plaines and Skokie have similar restriction levels.
Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Cook County Tree Preservation Ordinance 19-3158, codified in Chapter 102 zoning, requires removal permits for protected and heritage trees on unincorporated lots. Native oaks, hickories, and trees over 20-inch DBH are protected; replacement and mitigation are mandatory for permitted removals.
View full Des Plaines rules →Skokie, IL
Cook County
Cook County Tree Preservation Ordinance 19-3158, codified in Chapter 102 zoning, requires removal permits for protected and heritage trees on unincorporated lots. Native oaks, hickories, and trees over 20-inch DBH are protected; replacement and mitigation are mandatory for permitted removals.
View full Skokie rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Des Plaines | Skokie |
|---|---|---|
| Ordinance | Cook 19-3158 codified Ch. 102 | Cook 19-3158 codified Ch. 102 |
| Protected species | Native oaks and hickories | Native oaks and hickories |
| Size threshold | 20-inch DBH any species | 20-inch DBH any species |
| Mitigation ratio | 1 inch out, 1.5 in replanted | 1 inch out, 1.5 in replanted |
| Scope | Unincorporated Cook only | Unincorporated Cook only |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Des Plaines FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a dead oak in unincorporated Cook?
Yes, even dead protected trees require a tree removal permit under Ordinance 19-3158, though dead-tree removals are typically issued without mitigation if a certified arborist confirms the tree is dead, dying, or hazardous to structures.
What counts as a heritage tree?
The ordinance treats native oaks and hickories of any size, plus any tree 20 inches DBH or greater regardless of species, as protected. Some forest preserve designations add specific named heritage trees with even tighter removal rules.
Does this apply if my house is in a suburban village?
No. Ordinance 19-3158 applies only to unincorporated Cook County. Villages such as Schaumburg, Oak Park, and Evanston run their own tree ordinances with different protected species lists, removal thresholds, and replacement rules.
Skokie FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a dead oak in unincorporated Cook?
Yes, even dead protected trees require a tree removal permit under Ordinance 19-3158, though dead-tree removals are typically issued without mitigation if a certified arborist confirms the tree is dead, dying, or hazardous to structures.
What counts as a heritage tree?
The ordinance treats native oaks and hickories of any size, plus any tree 20 inches DBH or greater regardless of species, as protected. Some forest preserve designations add specific named heritage trees with even tighter removal rules.
Does this apply if my house is in a suburban village?
No. Ordinance 19-3158 applies only to unincorporated Cook County. Villages such as Schaumburg, Oak Park, and Evanston run their own tree ordinances with different protected species lists, removal thresholds, and replacement rules.
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