Chicago Municipal Code requires property owners to trim all trees so no limb extends below 6 feet above the ground. The Chicago Landscape Ordinance also regulates tree planting and maintenance for new development and major renovations.
The Chicago Municipal Code requires all trees on private property to be trimmed to ensure no tree limb or portion thereof extends below 6 feet above ground level. This clearance requirement protects pedestrian passage on sidewalks and public ways. The Chicago Landscape Ordinance (administered by the Bureau of Forestry and the Department of Planning and Development) establishes additional tree planting and maintenance requirements for new construction and major renovation projects. Parkway trees (those in the public right-of-way between the sidewalk and curb) are maintained by the City and residents should not trim them without authorization. Property owners are responsible for trimming trees on their own property that overhang sidewalks or public ways.
Failure to maintain proper tree clearance may result in a notice of violation and fines. Unauthorized trimming or removal of parkway trees is a separate violation. The city may trim overhanging branches and bill the property owner if they fail to comply.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Cook County.
See how other cities in Cook County handle tree trimming.
See how Chicago's tree trimming rules stack up against other locations.
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