Illinois Tree Removal & Heritage Trees Law: Statewide Landscaping Rules Rules (2026)

Key Facts

Statute: 740 ILCS 185
Damages: Treble stumpage value
Forum: Circuit court
Utility Trimming: ICC jurisdiction

Full Breakdown

The Wrongful Tree Cutting Act (740 ILCS 185) provides that any person who cuts, injures, or removes timber or trees on another's property without permission is liable for three times the stumpage value of the tree. The statute applies uniformly across Illinois and is enforced through civil suits in circuit court. Utility vegetation management on rights-of-way is regulated separately by the Illinois Commerce Commission under 220 ILCS 5.

Violations & Penalties

Civil liability equals three times the stumpage value plus court costs; criminal trespass to property under 720 ILCS 5/21-3 may also apply.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if a neighbor cuts down my tree in Illinois?

Under 740 ILCS 185 you may sue for three times the tree's stumpage value plus costs, and may also pursue criminal trespass charges under 720 ILCS 5/21-3.

Can a city override Illinois tree-cutting damages?

No. Treble damages under the Wrongful Tree Cutting Act apply statewide; municipal tree ordinances are layered on top and cannot reduce the statutory civil remedy.

Illinois Wrongful Tree Cutting Act Applies Statewide

Key Facts

Full Breakdown

Violations & Penalties

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

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