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Tree Management Ordinance

On February 7, 2008 the Village Board passed a Tree Management Ordinance.  The ordinance which does not prohibit homeowners from removing an unwanted tree on private property is intended to protect, manage, preserve, and enhance the Village's urban forest.  Since 2005, the Beautification Commission and Village Board have held 12 public meetings to discuss and debate the merits of such an ordinance.  In the end, Village Trustees determined that the presence of trees in Lincolnwood improves air quality, conserves energy, provides wildlife habitat, reduces soil erosion, enhances storm water detention and drainage, and preserves and enhances property values in the Village. 

Prior to removing any tree that is eight inches or greater in diameter on private property, resients are now required to obtain a tree removal permit from the Building Department.  Further, residents that wish to remove any tree that is greater than eight inches in diameter and is outside of their building envelope will be required to plant replacement trees on the property or pay a fee to the Village for the planting of new parkway trees.

Trees that constitute a threat, danger or nuisance or that may be dangerous to the health of other trees in the Village may be removed without fulfilling the tree replacement requirements.  However, the removal of any such tree still requires a permit from the Building Department.  The penalty for removal of a tree without a permit is a fine of not more than $1,000 and the imposition of a tree replacement fee which is $300 per diameter inch of tree removed.

The policy of the Village is to balance the private property rights of landowners with the public health, safety, and welfare that is promoted by the existence and maintenance of trees in the Village.

For questions regarding the Tree Management Ordinance or to obtain a tree removal permit, contact the Building Department at 847-673-7402.