Private Elm Tree Insurance Applications Available
Private elm tree insurance is again being offered to Evanston residents through the City of Evanston’s Park/Forestry Division. While the City maintains elm trees on public property, homeowners are responsible for removing diseased elms from their private property. Costs for removing diseased trees can range from $1,000 for a medium-sized tree to more than $4,000 for a very large tree.
The Private Elm Tree Insurance Program covers the cost of removing trees lost to Dutch Elm disease. If an insured tree is so infected that it must be removed, the City will handle all aspects and costs of the removal to ground level. Removal of the remaining stump is up to the homeowner. Costs for the private insurance range from $60 to $140 per tree, per year, depending on a tree’s size.
This is a one-year insurance program, and new applications must be submitted each year. Applications are available online>>>. Printed forms are available at the Morton Civic Center, 2100 Ridge Ave., Evanston. Residents also may call 847-448-4311 and ask that an application be mailed. Completed applications and payment must be received no later than May 31, 2011.
The photo is of a public elm tree on Ridge Avenue across the street from the Morton Civic Center. The City maintains public elms trees (those in parks and on parkways). Homeowners may purchase elm tree insurance for their private trees.