Contents (Click To Jump)
- 1 What Are the Most Common Tree Issues in Oak Park?
- 2 Does the City of Oak Park Provide Any Assistance in Tree Removal Problems?
- 3 Who Is Responsible For Fallen Tree Removal in Oak Park?
- 4 How Does the Soil Affect Trees in Oak Park?
- 5 Does Weather Affect Tree Health in Oak Park?
- 6 What if Dead Trees Are Near Power Lines in Oak Park?
- 7 How Much Does Tree Removal Usually Cost in Oak Park?
What Are the Most Common Tree Issues in Oak Park?
In 2015, Oak Park made local history by becoming the first municipal arboretum in Illinois. Although this designation will typically refer to a single location within a community, the entire village of Oak Park received this accreditation thanks to its phenomenal urban forest. Part of maintaining the health of local trees is carefully tracking diseases or pests that may cause issues. Here are a few of the most common tree problems we encounter in Oak Park.
Dutch Elm Disease
There are approximately 1,000 American elms located throughout Oak Park, making the area particularly susceptible to Dutch elm disease. Dutch elm disease can often be spotted when individual leaves begin yellowing and wilting. In an attempt to preserve local elms, city officials will remove and replace any tree that starts showing signs of this illness.
Emerald Ash Borer
This pest first appeared in Oak Park in 2008. Although there are fewer ash trees than elm trees in this area, it is still vital to regularly appraise them to prevent the spread of the emerald ash borer. City officials favor removing infected trees rather than attempting to treat them, as treatment plans can be fairly expensive and do not guarantee the successful removal of this pest.
Gypsy Moth
Gypsy moths are a serious problem throughout Northeastern Illinois. They will defoliate trees, leading to poor tree health and eventual death. Gypsy moths can feed on over 450 different trees but may favor crabapple, oak, willow, and birch.
Does the City of Oak Park Provide Any Assistance in Tree Removal Problems?
Oak Park officials will remove trees on public property if the tree is infested, diseased, or posing a significant risk to the public. Trees will not always be removed right away, as officials will first focus on the most hazardous ones. Oak Park notes that although there may be a wasp or bee nest in a tree on public property, it will most likely be allowed to remain unless extenuating circumstances require its removal. Although they can be a nuisance, bees and wasps prey on less desirable insects and pollinate plants throughout the village.
Public Works officials will determine the necessity of tree removal on a case-by-case basis. If a hazardous tree on public property should be removed, you can contact the Oak Park Public Works Department at (708) 358-5700.
However, if you would like to remove a tree on your property, Oak Park will not provide any assistance. The pruning, general maintenance, and removal of trees on private property remain the property owner’s responsibility. Although Oak Park will not assist, it is worth noting that tree removal on private property in this area is fairly straightforward, as no permits are required.
Who Is Responsible For Fallen Tree Removal in Oak Park?
When a tree falls, it can be an incredibly stressful situation. In addition to worrying about the damaged property, there is also the matter of who will be financially responsible for arranging for the tree’s removal. To save you some time and stress, here’s what you need to know about who will be accountable for fallen tree removal in these common scenarios.
If you’re a homeowner?
You need to consider two things to determine who is responsible for fallen tree removal in Oak Park – where the tree fell and why it fell. If you are a homeowner and the tree fell on your property, you are responsible for its removal. Fortunately, your insurance should be able to assist you provided the tree fell due to an act of God such as a storm, fire, or lightning strike. However, it is important to note that if the tree fell due to preventable death or disease, you may be held liable for any damages.
If you’re a renter?
Typically, you will not be responsible for fallen tree removal if you are a tenant on a rental property. Instead, your landlord will need to make these arrangements, as they are the property owner. You should contact your landlord as soon as possible to alert them if a tree has fallen.
If you’re a landlord?
Trees are incredible assets, but they require ongoing care and maintenance. Even if you do not live on the property you are renting out, it is important to remember to care for the health of your trees. While you will always be responsible for removing fallen trees on your property, keeping your trees in good health ensures that you will not be able to be held liable for any damages caused by the tree falling.
If you’re a neighbor?
Unfortunately, even if the tree originated on your neighbor’s property, it becomes your responsibility to remove it once it has fallen onto your property. The only exception is if the tree fell due to negligence on your neighbor’s part — that is, if they were aware that the tree was diseased or decaying and failed to take steps to remedy the situation. In this case, you may be able to argue that your neighbor should pay for the tree’s removal. Regardless of the specifics of the situation, the city of Oak Park will not get involved in civil disputes like this, so you must contact legal representation if you require assistance.
How Does the Soil Affect Trees in Oak Park?
The most prevalent type of soil in Illinois is known as Drummer soil. Drummer soil is generally silty clay, and it is found on over 1,500,000 acres of land throughout the north of Illinois. It is a very productive type of soil, able to support widespread crops. As such, trees in Oak Park typically perform very well.
Does Weather Affect Tree Health in Oak Park?
With its location near Lake Michigan, Oak Park has more moderate temperatures than many regions located further south in Illinois. The average annual temperature in this area is 50.6° F, and the average annual rainfall is 39 inches. Oak Park is a fairly cool and wet location, being located in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average annual minimum winter temperature will range from -10° to -5° F. Trees that prefer dry or warm weather will not perform particularly well here; many trees thrive in this climate.
What if Dead Trees Are Near Power Lines in Oak Park?
Dead trees near power lines are a significant safety risk and should not be taken lightly. When trees come in contact with power lines, several dangerous things can happen. The tree may become energized, creating an electrocution risk for anyone nearby. Energized trees may also catch on fire. In addition to these risks, dead trees near power lines may cause service interruptions or blackouts. This is not just inconvenient but potentially dangerous, as it can disrupt safety and traffic signals.
The seriousness of this matter means that many regulations are surrounding the maintenance of trees near power lines. Federal standards dictate that all utility services must have a dedicated vegetation management program to prevent the dangers of widespread power outages. In Oak Park, ComEd monitors local power lines and trimming or removing trees as needed. If you have a question about a hazardous tree in your neighborhood, you can ask to speak to a Vegetation Management specialist at (800) 334-7661. If you would like to submit a request for assistance with tree trimming, you can fill out this form.
How Much Does Tree Removal Usually Cost in Oak Park?
The cost of tree removal is highly variable, with homeowners in Oak Park often paying anywhere from $200 to $2,000 for this type of service. The average price is $740. While it is impossible to predict these costs fully, here are a few of the most significant factors influencing the price.
The Size of the Tree
One of the main things that will determine the cost of tree removal is the size of your tree. Because smaller trees are so much quicker and more straightforward to remove, they will typically be much more affordable. In contrast, large trees with far-reaching branches will often need to be removed one section at a time, requiring more significant planning, a larger crew, and a greater amount of equipment. As such, larger trees will typically be much more expensive to remove.
The Tree’s Health
There are several reasons why trees that are diseased or decayed will cost more to remove. Diseased trees will often be more fragile, meaning that there is greater danger when removing them. Additionally, if a tree is infected, it is often necessary to take additional precautions during removal and disposal to prevent the disease from spreading. Because healthy trees do not have these restrictions or dangers, they will be more affordable to remove.
The Location of the Tree
In addition to the tree’s health and size, its location will also play a significant role in how expensive it is to remove. Trees located near buildings or power lines or on hilly terrain are more challenging for our crews to access and safely remove. In contrast, trees on the flat ground surrounded by open space are much easier to remove, thus bringing prices down.
