Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup
Key FactsOrdinance TextFull BreakdownViolationsFAQSourcesMore in Chicago

Chicago, IL Tree Protection: Heritage & Protected Trees (2026)

Light Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified August 2026

Key Facts

Heritage tree defined
§ 10-32-010(i): age, size, history, value
Program mandate
§ 10-32-245(b)(5), Advisory Board
Board created
2021, 13 members
General public-tree fine
$10-$500 or 60 days jail

Summary

Chicago's code formally defines a "heritage tree" by age, size, or historical value and directs the Urban Forestry Advisory Board to build a Heritage Tree program, but sets no separate removal-permit rule yet.

"Heritage tree" means a tree of special significance to the City because of its age, size, type, historical association, or horticultural value. ... Powers and duties. The board shall have the following powers and duties: ... (5) Establish a Heritage Tree program.

Source: Municipal Code of Chicago 10-32-160: Parkway tree as city propertyView official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-74: Current through Council Journal of June 17, 2026).

Full Breakdown

Municipal Code of Chicago § 10-32-010(i) defines a "heritage tree" as one of special significance to the City because of its age, size, type, historical association, or horticultural value. Under § 10-32-245(b)(5), the 13-member Urban Forestry Advisory Board created in 2021, chaired by a mayoral appointee and including the Commissioners of Streets and Sanitation, Transportation, Water Management, and Planning and Development, is charged with establishing a Heritage Tree program, alongside the annual Urban Forestry Management Plan. As written, Chapter 10-32 does not itself spell out heritage-specific designation criteria, a removal permit process, or a distinct penalty; those are left for the board and the Bureau of Forestry to develop administratively.

Violations & Fines

Chapter 10-32 sets no heritage-tree-specific fine. Damaging any public tree under § 10-32-170 draws $10-$500 or up to 60 days in jail under § 10-32-190, plus replacement costs under § 10-32-200.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Chicago legally protect designated heritage trees?
The code defines "heritage tree" and tells the Urban Forestry Advisory Board to create a Heritage Tree program, but as written it does not yet set separate permit or removal rules for heritage-designated trees.
What if I damage a heritage tree on a Chicago parkway?
General public-tree rules apply: a fine of $10 to $500 or up to 60 days in jail under § 10-32-190, plus you owe replacement costs under § 10-32-200.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Chicago

Noise Ordinances: Construction HoursSome RestrictionsParkway PlantingSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Decibel LimitsSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Vehicle NoiseSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Barking DogsSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor SoundSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Preferential Parking DistrictsSome Restrictions

All Chicago rules

Compare Chicago to another location·View the Illinois tree protection overview

Get notified when Heritage & Protected Trees in Chicago, IL changes

We'll email you the moment we detect a change in the code. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.

We'll never sell or share your email. One-click unsubscribe in every email.

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.