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

02 defines 'Heritage Tree' as any tree having an 18-inch or larger diameter at breast height (DBH), and its 'Protected Area' definition specifically lists heritage trees, alongside bluffs, ravines, and conservation areas, as triggering the Ordinance's tree protection measures. 02 requires a City Forester permit before removing any tree of 6 inches DBH or larger anywhere in the city, meaning every heritage tree, always above that threshold, needs a permit; oak trees need one regardless of size, as does any tree in a conservation easement, tree preservation area, or no-disturbance area.

The City Forester may only approve removing a protected mature tree if it is dead, dying, diseased, a hazard, interferes with utilities or traffic, blocks development that cannot reasonably avoid it, or is not on the Morton Arboretum's recommended species list. A tree removed under permit, or removed illegally, must be replaced so the aggregate caliper size of new trees is at least double the DBH of the tree removed (a 10-inch tree needs, for example, five 4-inch caliper replacements); missing the six-month replanting window converts the obligation into a payment equal to the tree's full value into the City's tree fund.

Before any grading, utility, building, or demolition permit issues, protective fencing at least four feet high, on steel posts spaced 8 to 10 feet on center, must be installed around protected trees and stay up until construction is finished.