Tree & Bench Commemorative Program

• Inquiry forms are available online or through the Park Services Department.
• Coordinate with a Planner in person, by email at [email protected], or by phone at 630-653-5429 to choose a park and location.
• Applications are accepted year-round, though installation timelines vary.
• Plaque wording isn’t required at submission but may delay installation; plaques are ordered after donor approval and take 10–12 weeks to produce.
• After installation, the Planning Department will mail a certificate, map, and thank-you letter; installation dates cannot be scheduled or attended.

• Plaque production can vary throughout the year, typically taking 10–12 weeks after final proof approval; plaques are installed June–November.
• Tree plaques are mounted on a sealed boulder within the mulched area. The tree’s common and botanical names appear on the first two lines. Five lines of 30 characters* per line are available for your commemorative text.
• Bench plaques are set into the bench’s concrete base and allow for up to 7 lines of 30 characters* per line for your commemorative text.

*Numbers, letters, punctuation and spaces count as characters.

Who maintains the memorial?
All memorial trees and benches are maintained by the Wheaton Park District as part of regular park upkeep. Individual memorials are not intended to be altered or supplemented with personal decorations.

How long does installation take?
Installation timelines vary based on the memorial type, location, weather, and seasonal planting schedules. Once installed, donors will receive confirmation along with a map and certificate acknowledging the memorial.

Can I be present for the installation of my memorial?
Memorial installations are scheduled and completed by Wheaton Park District staff based on weather, site conditions, and operational schedules. While donors are welcome to visit the memorial once installation is complete, attendance during the installation itself is not permitted.

Can I scatter ashes at a memorial site or within a Wheaton Park District park?
The scattering of cremated remains is not permitted on Wheaton Park District property. Park District parks and facilities are public spaces, and this activity is not allowed in order to respect all visitors and ensure consistent park use policies.

Is there a replacement guarantee for memorial trees or benches?
Wheaton Park District staff will assist in selecting an appropriate tree for the designated location and provide a one-year replacement guarantee from the date of installation. Replacement beyond the first year may be considered in certain circumstances, including the inability of the tree to become established, damage caused by extreme weather, or disease or pest issues affecting Park District plantings at that location.

If a replacement is approved beyond the one-year guarantee, donors may be responsible for the direct cost of the replacement tree or bench and plaque; labor costs will be waived. Memorial trees and benches will not be replaced after ten (10) years from the date of installation.

To learn more about the Play for All Playground & Garden and how you or a business you know can become involved, please contact [email protected].