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Select one of the following links to be taken directly to that section of the Forestry webpage.

*NEW FERTILIZER ORDINANCE EFFECTIVE JUNE 1 2010*

Tree Preservation During Construction

Winter Tree Trimming

Green Tree Inventory Markings

Planting Native Species

Emerald Ash Borer

Gypsy Moths

Apply For A Tree Removal Permit

Contact Information

New Ordinance Regulating Fertilizers

A new ordinance will become effective June 1 2010 regulating the use of lawn and turf fertilizers containing inorganic (synthetic) phosphorus. A brochure has been made including an explanation of the purpose of the new ordinance as well as information on the effects of using fertilizers containing phosphorus. Residents are encouraged to become familiar with the new ordinance in order to assure that they are in compliance.

To view the informational brochure, click here.

To view a copy of the ordinance, click here.

Tree Preservation During Construction

A dense, healthy and diverse forest exists in the City of Highland Park, providing ample shade and year-round beauty to residents and employees alike. Trees serve many important functions such as supporting wildlife, stabilizing the soils of our ravines, reducing noise, moderating temperature and cleaning our air. Studies have shown that trees on private property dramatically increase the value of the residence and are considered more visually appealing than open lots. For all of these reasons, it is vital that we protect trees during the process of constructing, renovating or otherwise updating a property.

When work requires changes on a substantial portion of your property, the needs of your trees should be considered before, during, and after the construction phase of the project. There are several steps which you can take to alleviate stress or damage which may lead to the severe dieback or death of trees in the years following construction.

Before, During & After Construction:

• Remove unwanted dead, diseased or hazardous trees
• Prune & improve trees you wish to save
• Fertilize, water & aerate trees before construction
• Have a landscaper root prune outsize of protection zone before construction
• Lay down mulch in heavy-traffic areas during construction
• Fertilize, water & mulch saved trees after construction
• Have a tree expert advise you on steps you can take to protect & save trees

The General Contractor is in charge of erecting tree fencing and taking steps to otherwise protect trees during a construction project. As a landowner, you have an invested interest in how the project proceeds. When planning for construction with a contractor, making a tree-protection plan outlining the “rules of conduct” concerning your trees can establish acceptable practices and encourage responsible workmanship.

Establish Rules With Your Contractor:

• Erect protective tree fencing prior to any work being done
• Do not change the grade (soil level) around trees
• Use permeable surfaces whenever possible
• Attempt to run all utilities in one single trench
• Build boardwalks to establish pathways
• Minimize or eliminate all traffic within tree protection fencing
• Never store soil, building materials or equipment under trees
• Control storm water runoff to prevent flooding, erosion etc.

Many of these practices are in the City’s tree preservation ordinance. Familiarizing yourself with this ordinance is a good way to understand your legal rights. Notify the Forestry Department of any violations in order to correct them and prevent problems in the future.

If you have any questions about tree preservation, please contact Joe ONeill, City Forester, at joneill@cityhpil.com, or by calling (847) 432-0807

2010-2011 Winter Tree Trimming

The City's annual winter tree trimming program has been completed for the 2009-2010 winter season. Contractors hired by the City worked in the northwest corner of Highland Park this winter (section 1 and the western section 3 as shown in the map below). Approximately 1/7th of the parkway trees are trimmed each year so that all trees are trimmed within a seven-year cycle. Trees to be trimmed are all situated within the city's right-of-way adjacent to streets and other public lands. All work will be done to improve and maintain the health and quality of the trees and to assure the safety and accessability of streets and sidewalks within Highland Park.

Tree Trimming this upcoming winter will complete the remaining trees in section 3 and start work in section 2 (see the map attachment below).

To view a map detailing the regional break down of the city for tree trimming, click here.

If you have any questions concerning the work or contractors, please contact Joe ONeill, City Forester, at joneill@cityhpil.com, or by calling (847) 432-0807

Not everyone realizes that there is a strip of land adjacent to the edge of most public streets that is owned by the City, even in those areas where a sidewalk doesn't exist. This strip of land is the public right-of-way. The green markings are placed on trees, under the direction of the City Forester, to help track trees standing on the right-of-way. Each year, in preparation for routine trimming, all trees in a scheduled section of Highland Park are re-inventoried and all markings are refreshed. For this reason, some dots in town may appear greener and brighter than others. The dots may be more noticeable in the winter when vegetation is sparse. The markings do fade quickly and in many parts of the City, the dots are barely visible.

Planting Native

Native plants are especially valuable in sloping landscapes such as those seen on properties adjacent to beaches and ravines. Because they often have deeper roots, they can absorb water locked deep in the soil and minimize erosion. The Forestry division has composed a partial list of desirable native plant species for the stabilization or restoration ravines and bluffs. While this list is not intended to be all-inclusive, it can serve as a starting point in your efforts to improve the conditions of the natural areas on your property. Vegetation and lawns should be manually watered only when the soil is dry, as unnecessary over-watering can result from automatic sprinklers. It is recommended that you seek advice from a licensed landscape architect or an arborist to determine which specific plants are most suitable for you and your property. When planting, ensure that landscaping debris is hauled off site and not deposited into ravines.

Select Native Ravine Plants

Select Native Trees and Shrubs

For further information regarding planting in the ravines, please contact Joe ONeill, City Forester, at (847) 926-1604

Emerald Ash Borer

Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is a non-native insect that was discovered in Michigan in the summer of 2002. EAB insects feed on ash trees which over time results in tree mortality. Since their discovery, state and local governments have made significant efforts to eradicate this insect. Despite efforts made, the insect population has continued to migrate in all directions from its origin in Michigan.

The USDA has been monitoring the insect population as it establishes itself in Illinois. EAB populations have been confirmed in the nearby communities of Lake Forest, Glenview, Buffalo Grove and Libertyville. The insect is continuing to move and it is only a matter of time before it is found in Highland Park. The City’s Forestry Department is removing ash trees located on public rights-of-way that are in poor health to reduce our population numbers. The City also stopped planting ash in 2004. Ash trees currently make up approximately 16% of our street trees with many more on private property.

For more information please see the Illinois Department of Agriculture’s website on Emerald Ash Borer at www.agr.state.il.us/eab

Gypsy Moths

Please click here to view a brief powerpoint presentation on the history and solution for gypsy moths. They pose a threat to most trees in Highland Park, especially oaks.

Tree Removal Permit

A permit is required to remove any tree larger that 8" DBH (Diameter at Breast Height). To receive a non-construction related tree removal permit, print out the attached form and fill in the appropriate spaces. The name of the Contractor is not required to complete this form. Mail or fax the completed document to: Department of Public Works, Attn. Joe ONeill, 1150 Half Day Road, Highland Park, Illinois 60035; Fax number (847) 926-8885. If you have any questions, please call Joe ONeill at (847) 926-1604.

Tree Removal Application Form (PDF)

Contact Information

For further information related to the Forestry Division, contact Joe ONeill, City Forester at (847) 432-0807 in the Public Works Department, 1150 Half Day Road, Highland Park, Illinois 60035.

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