Arlington Heights, IL Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)

Arlington Heights property owners are responsible for maintaining trees on their private property. Branches must be trimmed to maintain a minimum clearance of 8 feet over sidewalks and 14 feet over streets. Dead, diseased, or hazardous branches that pose a risk to public safety must be removed promptly. The Village's Forestry Division manages all trees in the public right-of-way, including parkway trees between the sidewalk and curb. Residents may not trim, remove, or treat parkway trees without written authorization from the Village. The Village conducts regular parkway tree trimming on a cyclical basis. Residents can request parkway tree trimming or report hazardous conditions through the Public Works Department. Emerald ash borer has significantly impacted ash trees throughout the Village, and the Forestry Division has managed a large-scale ash tree removal and replacement program. When trimming private trees, residents should follow ANSI pruning standards and avoid topping trees, which is considered harmful to tree health. Hiring a licensed and insured arborist is recommended for significant tree work.