Heritage & Protected Trees: Evanston vs Schaumburg
How do heritage & protected trees rules compare between Evanston, IL and Schaumburg, IL?
Evanston and Schaumburg have similar restriction levels.
Evanston, IL
Cook County
Cook County Chapter 126 protects significant trees on unimproved and partially improved land. Deciduous trees over 6 inches in diameter and evergreens over 10 feet tall are protected. Heavy fines apply for unauthorized removal.
View full Evanston rules →Schaumburg, IL
Cook County
Schaumburg provides enhanced protection for heritage and landmark trees of significant size, age, or species value. These trees receive the highest level of preservation consideration in development review.
View full Schaumburg rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Evanston | Schaumburg |
|---|---|---|
| Protected Deciduous | 6+ in. diameter | - |
| Protected Evergreen | 10+ ft tall | - |
| Code | Chapter 126 | - |
| Penalty | Heavy fines + replacement | - |
| Heritage Threshold | - | 24+ inch trunk diameter |
| Protected Species | - | Bur oak, white oak, American elm |
| Replacement Ratio | - | 3:1 or higher |
| Review | - | Village Forester approval required |
| Annual Planting | - | Hundreds of parkway trees/year |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Evanston FAQ
What trees are protected in Cook County?
On unimproved/partially improved land: deciduous trees over 6 inches in diameter and evergreens over 10 feet tall are protected under Chapter 126.
What happens if I remove a protected tree without permission?
Heavy fines are imposed and replacement tree planting may be required. Each tree removed without a permit may be a separate violation.
Schaumburg FAQ
Does Schaumburg have a heritage tree registry?
Schaumburg does not maintain a formal registry, but trees over 24 inches in trunk diameter receive enhanced protection and require Village Forester approval before removal.
What species are considered most valuable for preservation?
Native species like bur oaks, white oaks, and American elms of significant size receive particular preservation consideration in development review.
Can I get a free tree from the Village?
The Village's parkway tree planting program adds trees to public rights-of-way. Contact Public Works to request a parkway tree planting in front of your property.
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