Ravenswood neighbors are banding together to save their beloved treehouses from being torn down by the city. The treehouses, which have been a part of the community for over a decade, are considered a violation of city code because they were built without permits.

A Community Effort

Nate Hutcheson, the owner of one of the treehouses, has been fighting to save the structures since he received a notice from the city on July 28. He has been gathering support from his neighbors and has even met with Ald. Andre Vasquez to ask for his help.

The treehouses are not just a fun place for kids to play, but they also serve as a community gathering spot. Linus Peyer, a 12-year-old resident of Giddings Street, said that the treehouses add fun and community to the neighborhood.

A Bureaucratic Battle

The city’s Department of Transportation has stated that the treehouses are not eligible for a permit, and Hutcheson has been given 15 days to remove the structure. However, the city has also said that they will allow the process to play out before taking further action.

Matthew Demers, the owner of another treehouse on the block, has decided to remove his structure before the deadline. He plans to repurpose the wood into furniture for residents to use underneath the tree.

Hutcheson is still holding out hope that his treehouse can be saved. He believes that the city should find a way to make the treehouses work, rather than just tearing them down.

Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.