Bolingbrook, IL Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)

Sec. 16-23 sets the permit trigger: no person may remove or relocate a tree of that size without first obtaining a permit, regardless of whether the property is public or private. Sec. 16-24 lays out the process: the village forester evaluates the tree to determine whether pruning or chemical treatment could serve as an alternative to removal, then the applicant files with the public works director a written statement of the reason for removal, a description of the trees (height, species, diameter), and a scaled drawing showing their location.

The public works director inspects the site and may approve the permit only if at least one listed condition applies, such as a safety hazard to traffic, buildings or utilities, disease under Sec. 34-98, sound forestry practice, or the need to clear space for an approved construction project. The director must act within seven working days and must state reasons in writing if denying the application. Approval typically requires planting a replacement tree at least two inches in diameter for each tree removed, in the same yard, and removing stumps and roots below grade with the area re-sodded.

Sec. 16-25 gives permittees 90 days to finish the authorized work, and Sec. 16-26 requires the permit card be displayed at the work site. Sec. 00 per offense if the violation occurs on a village right-of-way or parkway, with each tree removed counted as a separate offense.