Tree removal permit rules in Chicago, IL — sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances — list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Chicago protects parkway trees under MCC Chapter 10-32 and requires permits for removal of city trees. Private tree removal on private property is generally unregulated, but trees in the parkway (public right-of-way) are city property managed by the Bureau of Forestry.
Under MCC 10-32, all trees in the public parkway (the grassy strip between the sidewalk and street) are city property managed by the Bureau of Forestry within the Department of Streets and Sanitation. No one may remove, damage, or prune a parkway tree without authorization. The landscaping plan provisions require identification of any tree proposed for removal, with explanation. If construction damages trees greater than 4 inches DBH not marked for removal, they must be replaced with new trees of at least 4-inch caliper B&B as directed by the Bureau of Forestry. Damaged trees are valued per MCC 10-32-200 and the contractor is charged their appraised value. The Bureau of Forestry must be notified within 24 hours of suspected construction damage to trees.
Unauthorized removal or damage to a parkway tree carries fines of $500 to $2,500 per tree. The owner must also pay the appraised replacement value per MCC 10-32-200. Criminal charges may apply for willful destruction.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Cook County.
See how other cities in Cook County handle tree removal & heritage trees.
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