Des Plaines, IL Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)
Key Facts
- Code Chapter
- Des Plaines City Code Ch. 8-4 (Parkway Trees)
- Trimming Standard
- sec. 8-4-3 (maintain, avoid obstructions)
- Planting Standard
- sec. 8-4-1 (conformance required)
- Permit
- Public Works permit to trim/remove parkway tree
- Forestry Contact
- Public Works 847-391-5464
Summary
Parkway (right-of-way) trees in Des Plaines must be trimmed and maintained per City Code Chapter 8-4 to avoid obstructions and safety hazards; trimming or removing a parkway tree requires a permit from Public Works, and parkway trees must be planted in conformance with 8-4-1.
Parkway trees shall be trimmed and maintained in accordance with Section 8-4-3 to avoid obstructions and safety concerns within the public rights-of-way. Parkway trees shall be planted in conformance with Section 8-4-1 of the Des Plaines Municipal Ordinance.
Full Breakdown
Des Plaines distinguishes between trees on private property and trees in the public parkway (the strip between the sidewalk and the curb, within the public right-of-way). Under City Code Chapter 8-4, parkway trees must be trimmed and maintained in accordance with Section 8-4-3 to avoid obstructions and safety concerns within the public rights-of-way, and parkway trees must be planted in conformance with Section 8-4-1. The City's Forestry division (Public Works & Engineering, 847-391-5464) administers parkway tree care. A property owner adjacent to a parkway may trim or remove a parkway tree only with a permit from Public Works; the City requests that residents help water newly planted parkway trees by monitoring the water bags placed around them. There is no general permit requirement for pruning trees that are entirely on private property, though work in the right-of-way is regulated.
Violations & Fines
Trimming or removing a parkway tree without a Public Works permit, or failing to maintain parkway trees, is a code violation subject to fines under the general penalty (section 1-4-1), with each day a separate offense. The City may perform required work and bill the responsible owner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I trim or remove the tree in the parkway in front of my Des Plaines house?
Do I need a permit to prune a tree in my own backyard?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Des Plaines
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