Illinois Tree Trimming Law: Statewide Landscaping Rules Rules (2026)

Key Facts

Regulator: Illinois Commerce Commission
Code: 83 Ill. Adm. Code 411
Standard: ANSI A300 / NESC
Statute: 220 ILCS 5

Full Breakdown

The Public Utilities Act (220 ILCS 5) gives the Illinois Commerce Commission exclusive authority over electric utility safety, including vegetation management. ICC rule 83 Ill. Adm. Code 411 incorporates ANSI A300 and the National Electrical Safety Code, requiring utilities to maintain minimum clearance distances around transmission and distribution lines. Property owners cannot prevent statutorily authorized trimming, though utilities must provide notice for non-emergency work.

Violations & Penalties

Utilities that fail to maintain clearances face ICC penalties up to $30,000 per violation per day under 220 ILCS 5/4-203; obstruction of authorized trimming may be enjoined.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I stop a utility from trimming trees on my property in Illinois?

No. Utilities have ICC-authorized easements to maintain line clearance under the Public Utilities Act, though they must give reasonable notice for non-emergency work.

Can cities regulate utility tree trimming differently?

No. ICC jurisdiction over electric safety and vegetation management preempts conflicting municipal rules; cities can regulate non-utility trimming on public property.

Illinois Commerce Commission Governs Utility Tree Trimming

Key Facts

Full Breakdown

Violations & Penalties

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

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