Cook County, IL Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)
Tree removal permit rules in Cook County, IL, sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances, list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Key Facts
- Deciduous
- Permit if 6+ in. diameter
- Evergreen
- Permit if 10+ ft tall
- Code
- Ch. 126
- Application
- Building & Zoning Dept.
Summary
Cook County Chapter 126 requires tree removal permits for deciduous trees over 6 inches in diameter and evergreen trees 10+ feet tall on unimproved or partially improved land. A Tree Removal Application must be submitted to Building and Zoning.
No tree as described below shall be removed from unimproved, partially improved or improved land without written approval from the Commissioner of the Department of Building and Zoning: A deciduous tree having a trunk size of six inches or greater in diameter, as measured six inches above the established grade. An evergreen tree measuring ten vertical feet or more in height. The Commissioner shall approve all requests for Tree Removal if one or more of the following conditions are present: Trees pose a safety hazard to pedestrians or vehicular traffic or any building or structure; Trees are diseased, infested with pests or have been seriously damaged by fire, lighting, storm or other injury; Trees are dictated by good forestry practice for removal when beneficial to remaining trees; Trees have been designated for removal on an approved landscape plan.
Full Breakdown
The Cook County Tree Preservation, Landscaping and Screening Ordinance (Chapter 126) requires permits for removing trees on unimproved or partially improved land in unincorporated areas. Deciduous trees with a trunk diameter exceeding 6 inches (measured at 6 inches above ground) and evergreen trees 10 feet or taller in height require a removal permit. The Tree Removal Application is submitted to the Cook County Department of Building and Zoning. The permit process evaluates the necessity of removal and may require tree replacement. Removing protected trees without a permit results in heavy fines. The ordinance aims to safeguard environmental conservation and maintain the tree canopy in unincorporated Cook County. The Cook County Forest Preserve District separately manages trees on preserve land.
Violations & Fines
Tree removal without permit: heavy fines. Standard building violation: $100–$1,000 per offense. Tree replacement may be required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Cook County?
What happens if I remove a tree without a permit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Cook County
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