Oak Park vs Skokie
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Oak Park, IL and Skokie, IL?
Oak Park and Skokie have similar restriction levels.
Oak Park, IL
Cook County
Oak Park requires permits for removing private trees over a certain diameter. The Village has strong tree preservation policies, and parkway trees cannot be removed without Village authorization. Replacement trees may be required when removal is approved.
View full Oak Park 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 | Oak Park | Skokie |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Trigger | Trees over 6 inches DBH | - |
| Parkway Trees | Cannot be removed by residents | - |
| Replacement | May be required when removal approved | - |
| Tree City USA | Oak Park is a participant | - |
| Forestry Division | Reviews all removal applications | - |
| Parkway Tree Removal | - | Village only |
| Private Tree Permit | - | May apply at 10+ inch DBH |
| Emergency Removal | - | Allowed, report to village |
| Contractor License | - | Required |
| Contact | - | Forestry (847) 933-8427 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Oak Park FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Oak Park?
Yes, if the tree trunk exceeds approximately 6 inches in diameter at breast height. Dead or diseased trees still require a permit application, though approval is more likely. Contact the Village Forestry Division to apply.
Can I remove the tree between my sidewalk and the street?
No. That is a parkway tree owned and managed by the Village. Only the Forestry Division can authorize removal of parkway trees. You can request removal if the tree is dead or hazardous.
Will I have to plant a replacement tree if I remove one?
Likely yes. The Village may require you to plant one or more replacement trees of approved species and size when a tree removal permit is granted, especially for healthy trees removed for construction or development purposes.
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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