Do I need a permit to remove a tree on my property?

It depends on the tree location and species; removals affecting the public right-of-way or protected trees typically require a permit—check the municipal code and contact Forestry or Planning & Development.

How long does permit review take?

Review times vary by application complexity and department workload; specific timeframes are not specified on the cited page—contact the permit office for current estimates.

Who pays for replacement trees?

The municipal code or department policy sets replacement obligations; if a removal was unauthorized, the owner may be required to pay for replacement or restoration as ordered by the city.

Joliet Tree Planting & Removal Permit Ordinance

Land Use and Zoning Illinois 3 Minutes Read · published February 21, 2026

In Joliet, Illinois, rules on planting, trimming and removing public and street trees are managed to protect urban canopy, utility access and safety. This guide explains where to find the controlling city code and department contacts, how permit reviews work, typical application steps, and enforcement practices so residents and contractors can comply with local requirements.

Scope & When Rules Apply

The city controls trees on public rights-of-way, in parks, and in some cases when private trees affect public safety or utilities. Private property owners should check whether a permit is required before removing or significantly altering a tree that borders a public way or is subject to a conservation or streetscape program.

Who Enforces Tree Rules

The City of Joliet Public Works Forestry Division is the primary enforcement and permitting office for street and public trees; code and land-use rules are published in the municipal code. For questions about permits or complaints, contact the Forestry Division or Planning & Development permit office directly. Municipal code^[1] Forestry Division^[2]

Always check the municipal code or department page before work begins.

Permit Types & When To Apply

Tree removal permits for public-right-of-way trees or protected trees.
Planting approvals or species lists for boulevard/street trees.
Timing or seasonal restrictions noted by the Forestry Division.

Permit application steps and submittal requirements are handled by Planning & Development or Public Works depending on the location and scope of work; check permit guidance before starting work. Permits and planning^[3]

Penalties & Enforcement

Official penalties and fine amounts for unauthorized removal or damage to regulated trees are listed in the Joliet municipal code or enforced via administrative orders by the Forestry Division. If the municipal code page or department pages do not list specific dollar amounts or escalation rules on the cited page, this guide notes that fact and points to the controlling source for the current penalty schedule.

Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.^[1]
Escalation (first, repeat, continuing offences): not specified on the cited page.^[1]
Non-monetary sanctions: stop-work orders, restoration or replacement tree requirements, administrative orders or court actions as specified by the enforcing department.
Enforcer: Public Works - Forestry Division for street/public trees; Planning & Development or Code Enforcement for zoning-related tree protections. Use department contact pages to file complaints or request inspections.^[2]
Appeals/review: the municipal code or department rules set appeal routes and time limits; specific appeal deadlines are not specified on the cited page.^[1]

If enforcement documents list monetary penalties you must follow the amounts and timelines shown on the official page.

Applications & Forms

The city publishes permit applications and guidance on department pages. Where a specific form name or fee is not posted on the cited department page, that item is listed here as "not specified on the cited page." Examples:

Tree removal permit: form name not specified on the cited page.^[2]
Permit fees: not specified on the cited page.^[3]
Submission method: typically online or at the Planning & Development counter; confirm on the official permit page.^[3]

Common Violations

Removing or cutting a regulated street tree without a permit.
Improper pruning that damages the tree or utilities.
Failing to replace trees when ordered to by the city.

FAQ

Do I need a permit to remove a tree on my property?: It depends on the tree location and species; removals affecting the public right-of-way or protected trees typically require a permit—check the municipal code and contact Forestry or Planning & Development.
How long does permit review take?: Review times vary by application complexity and department workload; specific timeframes are not specified on the cited page—contact the permit office for current estimates.^[3]
Who pays for replacement trees?: The municipal code or department policy sets replacement obligations; if a removal was unauthorized, the owner may be required to pay for replacement or restoration as ordered by the city.

How-To

Identify whether the tree is on private property, the public right-of-way, or in a protected zone.
Consult the municipal code and Forestry Division guidance for permit requirements and species restrictions.^[1]
Obtain and complete the required permit application from Planning & Development or Public Works as directed on the department page.^[3]
Submit plans, photos and any required fees; schedule inspection if requested by the city.
Follow city inspection results; if ordered to replace or restore, comply within the time specified or file an appeal per the municipal process.

Key Takeaways

Check whether a permit is required before altering or removing trees near public ways.
Contact the Forestry Division or Planning & Development for permits and inspections.