FAQs
General FAQs
Trees that are located in the City’s Right of Way are the City’s responsibility, however, the City's Rights of Way can vary depending on the street location. (“link” R.O.W. Map) Typically the City R.O.W is 66’ (thirty-three feet from the center of the road, both directions).
A tree removal permit is needed depending on the size and location of the tree. If the tree is located in your front or side yard and is greater than 10” in diameter, you will need a permit. If the tree is located in your backyard and is 18” or greater, you will need a permit.
The city doesn’t get involved in private property issues. If a tree on your neighbor’s property is encroaching onto your property, or hanging over the property line, it’s best to first talk to your neighbor before any work has taken place. If you feel that the encroaching branches are a hazard you do have the right to prune them as long as pruning is in accordance with ANSI A300 Standards.
Resources to find a certified arborist:
Illinois Arborist Association
“link” to IAA or landscaper list”
The Forestry section offers a share cost program to residents, which allows those residents that do not already have a parkway tree to split the cost 50/50 with the City. If you are interested in participating in the share cost tree program, please call 847-810-3564.
The Forestry section will mulch and water the newly planted tree during its first year. Fertilizer is not necessary or recommended in the first two years of establishment. The green watering bag that is placed at the base of the tree when planted will be filled by City crews every seven to ten days during the growing season. Weather will determine supplemental watering throughout the season. “link to tree care”.
The City treats mosquito breeding areas based on tests of larva rather than nuisance complaints. Testing for larvae always precedes treatment. However, the City is still responsive to resident reports of mosquito problem areas. A phone log documents all complaints, to which the City responds within 24 hours, if necessary. Mosquito activities (hatches/elevated positive disease reports) are also monitored on a regular through our vendor Clarke Environmental, which provides regular email updates.
While abatement activities primarily focus on identifying breeding habitats and eliminating mosquitos at the larval stage, the City will occasionally target adult mosquitos if recommended by the Center for Disease Control, due to the increased risk for mosquito-borne diseases like the West Nile virus
Miscellaneous
Storm damage that affects parkway trees is the responsibility of the City’s Forestry section. Private trees that fall on to the City’s Right of Way is the responsibility of the property owner. Trees that fall on to power lines need to be addressed by ComEd crews “link”(1800-Edison1). To report parkway tree storm damage please click here. ”link to storm damage form”
The Forestry section does provide consolations services from their certified arborist to answer questions about public and private trees, identify tree species on public and private property, and discuss common tree diseases and pest with the resident. Contact the Forestry office to set up an appointment.
Please contact the Forestry section to discuss your potential holiday tree donation.