Highland Park Brush Removal Services

Our Brush Removal Process

Contact Highland Park’s Department of Public Works for Brush Disposal & Municipal Chipping Programs

Highland Park offers comprehensive brush disposal programs to support responsible vegetation management and environmental compliance. Residents can utilize seasonal curbside yard waste collection, typically available April through November, with strict bundling requirements: brush must be cut to 4-foot lengths, bundled under 50 pounds, and tied with biodegradable twine (no plastic). Yard waste drop-off sites operate during posted hours and may require a resident permit or sticker; commercial contractors must follow fee structures for bulk loads. Municipal chipping services are coordinated through the Department of Public Works, with finished mulch often available for residents. All brush must be separated from leaves and free of contaminants, in compliance with the Illinois Environmental Protection Act (415 ILCS 5). Street and storm drain disposal is strictly prohibited to protect the Lake Michigan watershed and avoid MS4 violations.
Highland Park Department of Public Works
1150 Half Day Rd, Highland Park, IL 60035
Phone: (847) 432-0807
Official Website: Public Works Department

Highland Park Fire Department Coordination for Open Burning Permits & Safety Requirements

Open burning of brush in Highland Park is subject to strict municipal and county regulations, with many Chicago suburbs prohibiting or severely limiting open burning due to air quality and fire safety concerns. Where permitted, daily open burning permits must be obtained from the Fire Department, and all activities must comply with setback requirements (typically 50-150 feet from structures), constant supervision, and immediate access to water sources. Burning of leaves, construction debris, or plastics is prohibited. Fire weather restrictions are enforced in coordination with the National Weather Service Chicago, and burning is suspended during red flag warnings, droughts, or high winds. Residents must also comply with Cook County or Lake County burning bans as applicable.
Highland Park Fire Department
1130 Central Ave, Highland Park, IL 60035
Phone: (847) 433-3110
Official Website: Fire Department

Understanding Brush Types, Invasive Species & Specialized Disposal in Highland Park’s Heavy Clay Soils

Highland Park’s brush management must address several invasive species common to the Chicago area, including:

• Common Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica) and Glossy Buckthorn (Frangula alnus)
• Bush Honeysuckles (Amur, Morrow’s, Tartarian Lonicera species)
• Multiflora Rose (Rosa multiflora)
• Autumn Olive (Elaeagnus umbellata)

Proper disposal protocols require bagging fruit and seeds, never composting or chipping invasive brush, and transporting viable material to a landfill. Hazardous vegetation such as poison ivy, wild parsnip, and tick habitats require protective measures. Restoration should prioritize native species like serviceberry, viburnum, and prairie grasses, supporting ecological recovery and wildlife habitat. Coordination with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and local conservation groups is recommended for best practices.

Highland Park Environmental Commission Requirements for Brush Removal Near Wetlands & Protected Areas

Brush removal near wetlands, streams, or protected areas in Highland Park is regulated to safeguard sensitive habitats and water quality. Permits may be required for work within 10-25 feet of wetlands or conservation easements, and all activities must comply with erosion control specifications, especially on slopes with heavy clay soils prone to erosion. Wildlife protection is critical during the April-August breeding season, necessitating mandatory nesting bird surveys and visual inspections for active dens or bat roosts. Selective removal techniques should preserve beneficial habitat features, and immediate site stabilization is required to prevent sediment runoff.
Highland Park Environmental Commission / Sustainability Board
1707 St Johns Avenue, Highland Park, IL 60035
Phone: (847) 432-0800
Official Website: Environmental Programs / Sustainability

Professional Safety Standards, Equipment Requirements & Utility Coordination (JULIE 811) for Brush Removal

Professional brush removal in Highland Park requires adherence to rigorous safety and certification standards. Complex removals should be performed by ISA Certified Arborists, with all operators trained in equipment safety (chainsaws, chippers, brush hogs) and compliance with ANSI Z133.1 standards. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is mandatory, including chainsaw chaps, gloves, eye and hearing protection, and steel-toed boots. Before any excavation or stump removal, JULIE 811 must be notified at least 48-72 hours in advance to locate underground utilities (JULIE 811 - Call Before You Dig). Contractors must carry comprehensive liability insurance (minimum $1M per occurrence), workers’ compensation, and bonding for municipal work.

Seasonal Timing, Wildlife Protection & Weather Coordination for Highland Park’s Climate Zone 5a-6a

Optimal timing for brush removal in Highland Park’s Zone 5a-6a climate is during the winter months (December-March) when the ground is frozen, minimizing soil compaction and rutting in heavy clay soils. Early spring (March-April) is also suitable before wildlife breeding season begins, while late fall (October-November) is ideal after nesting concludes. Work should be avoided during the May-August breeding season to protect birds and mammals. Weather coordination is essential: avoid operations during high winds (over 20-25 mph), saturated soils, or red flag fire weather conditions as indicated by the National Weather Service Chicago. Always monitor for drought or excessive heat.

Post-Removal Site Restoration & Stormwater Management in Compliance with Highland Park’s MS4 Program

After brush removal, immediate site restoration is required to comply with Highland Park’s MS4 permit obligations under the Clean Water Act and protect the Lake Michigan watershed. Erosion control measures, such as silt fencing or erosion control blankets, are critical for exposed clay soils. Native species reestablishment using Illinois-adapted plants supports long-term ecological health. Construction phase protection includes proper equipment staging, daily cleanup, and containment of debris. Long-term management involves monitoring for invasive regrowth (especially buckthorn), maintenance of restored areas, and, if necessary, licensed herbicide application in accordance with Illinois Department of Agriculture - Pesticide Regulations. Coordination with the Illinois EPA Water Quality & Watershed Management is recommended.

Storm Debris Management & Emergency Response Coordination with Highland Park

Severe weather events in the Chicago area often generate significant storm debris, requiring coordinated emergency response. Highland Park issues emergency collection announcements and may extend yard waste collection hours or open temporary drop-off sites. Residents must separate organic brush from construction debris and place materials at the curb without blocking streets. Priority is given to clearing emergency routes, with coordination among Public Works, Police, and Fire Departments. For major disasters, FEMA documentation and temporary debris storage sites may be established. Utility companies (e.g., ComEd) are engaged for power line clearance, and public safety is maintained through traffic control and hazard mitigation.
Highland Park Police Department
1677 Old Deerfield Rd, Highland Park, IL 60035
Phone: (847) 432-7730
Official Website: Police Department

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Highland Park, IL?

Highland Park encompasses diverse neighborhoods, each with unique brush management needs:

• Ravinia: Mature tree canopy, dense buckthorn understory, narrow streets limit equipment access, proximity to Ravinia Festival grounds
• Braeside: Adjacent to forest preserves, high invasive pressure, sensitive wetland buffers, overhead utilities common
• Sherwood Forest: Newer development, less invasive density, HOA landscaping standards, improved access
• Highlands: Rolling topography, heavy clay soils, drainage challenges, established native and invasive vegetation
• East Highland Park: Lake Michigan bluffs, erosion-prone slopes, high-value properties, strict restoration expectations
• Sunset Park: Grid-pattern streets, alley access, mature vegetation, moderate invasive presence
• Hybernia: Planned community, conservation easements, HOA restrictions, native restoration focus Disposal logistics vary by area, with some neighborhoods relying on curbside pickup and others utilizing drop-off sites or municipal chipping services. Environmental sensitivities, utility density, and property values influence management strategies.

Highland Park Municipal Ordinances for Brush Removal Equipment Operation & Commercial Service Standards

Brush removal in Highland Park is governed by municipal ordinances specifying equipment operation hours (typically 7 AM-9 PM weekdays, 8 AM-9 PM Saturdays; Sunday restrictions may apply), noise limits, and public safety requirements. Commercial contractors must be licensed, insured, and comply with comprehensive insurance standards. Traffic control measures are required when working near roadways, and emergency vehicle access must be maintained at all times. Code Enforcement oversees compliance, with penalties for violations such as illegal dumping, unpermitted work, or improper equipment use. Residents and contractors should consult the Community Development Department for current regulations and permit requirements.
Highland Park Community Development Department
1150 Half Day Rd, Highland Park, IL 60035
Phone: (847) 432-0808
Official Website: Community Development Department