Heritage & Protected Trees: Oak Park vs Orland Park
How do heritage & protected trees rules compare between Oak Park, IL and Orland Park, IL?
Orland Park has fewer restrictions than Oak Park.
Oak Park, 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 Oak Park rules →Orland Park, IL
Cook County
Orland Park does not maintain a formal 'heritage tree' registry, but its tree preservation provisions protect mature and significant trees through diameter-based regulations and required preservation plans during development review.
View full Orland Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Oak Park | Orland Park |
|---|---|---|
| Protected Deciduous | 6+ in. diameter | - |
| Protected Evergreen | 10+ ft tall | - |
| Code | Chapter 126 | - |
| Penalty | Heavy fines + replacement | - |
| Heritage Registry | - | None formal |
| Mature Tree Protection | - | Diameter-based |
| Development Survey | - | Required |
| Enhanced Replacement | - | For large/native trees |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Oak Park 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.
Orland Park FAQ
Does Orland Park designate heritage trees?
Not by formal program. Significant trees are protected through diameter-based tree preservation rules and development-review requirements.
How are mature trees protected during construction?
Development applications require tree surveys and preservation plans, with protective fencing required during construction within drip lines.
Can I get my mature oak protected?
Contact the village forester for evaluation. Mature native oaks generally trigger enhanced replacement requirements if removal is requested.
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