Tree Protection in Cook County, IL (2026)

2 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 7 cities in Cook County, Illinois.

Verified from official government sources

Note: These county rules apply to unincorporated areas of Cook County. If you live within an incorporated city, that city's own rules apply: see the city list below.

Protected Tree Species

On County-controlled roads outside Chicago, the Highway Department can force utility crews to use higher poles, side-arm extensions or covered wire to protect specimen trees or trees of special significance during trimming permits.

Cook County Specimen Tree Protection Rules

Some Restrictions

Cook County Code § 66-68(b)

The County may require that special measures be taken to preserve specimen trees or trees of special significance. The required measures may consist of higher poles, side arm extensions, covered wire or other means that may necessitate work requiring additional permits for construction or repair.

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Parkway Planting

New development in unincorporated Cook County must plant parkway trees between the street and property line, spaced at least 30 feet apart, under the County's landscaping and screening ordinance.

Cook County Parkway Tree Planting Rules

Some Restrictions

Cook County Code § 126-65(f)

Parkway areas, which is that portion of the public way between a public street and the nearest parallel property line including sidewalk areas, shall be planted with trees at a minimum distance of 30 feet from center to center. Each parkway tree shall have a minimum diameter of 2½ inches as measured at a point six inches above grade level. Existing parkway trees of 2½ inches diameter or greater...

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗