Highland Park Hedging Services

Our Hedging Process

Contact Highland Park's Department of Public Works for Hedge Trimming Debris & Brush Disposal

Proper disposal of hedge trimmings and brush is essential for maintaining Highland Park’s environmental quality and regulatory compliance. The city’s seasonal yard waste collection program operates from April through November, requiring residents to bundle branches in 4-foot lengths weighing no more than 50 pounds, or to use biodegradable paper yard waste bags for smaller clippings. For large hedge renovation projects, the Highland Park Transfer Station accepts bulk organic debris during posted hours; a resident permit or sticker may be required, and fees may apply for oversized loads. Always separate organic hedge clippings from inorganic materials such as wire, plant ties, or plastic pots, which must be disposed of through alternative waste streams. Disposing of yard waste in streets, gutters, or storm drains is strictly prohibited to prevent stormwater contamination and to comply with the Illinois yard waste landfill ban and Illinois Environmental Protection Agency regulations. For detailed disposal procedures and current schedules, contact:

Highland Park Department of Public Works
1150 Half Day Rd., Highland Park, IL 60035
Phone: (847) 432-0807
Official Website: Public Works Department

Understanding Hedge Selection for Highland Park's Prairie Clay & Glacial Till Soils & Climate Zone 5b

Selecting appropriate hedge species for Highland Park requires careful consideration of the city’s USDA Hardiness Zone 5b and its predominant prairie clay and glacial till soils. These soils are often heavy, with moderate to poor drainage and a neutral to slightly alkaline pH, as confirmed by the USDA Web Soil Survey. Environmental stressors include winter de-icing salt exposure, strong prairie winds, urban heat, and periodic drought. Recommended species for Highland Park include:

• Native/Adapted: Ninebark, American cranberrybush viburnum, winterberry holly, chokeberry, New Jersey tea
• Salt-Tolerant: Juniper cultivars, cotoneaster, potentilla, serviceberry
• Shade-Tolerant: American yew, arrowwood viburnum, coral berry, native hydrangeas
• Drought-Resistant: Sumac, prairie rose, leadplant, butterfly bush alternatives
• Cold-Hardy: Rugosa rose, alpine currant, Siberian peashrub alternatives

Avoid invasive species such as buckthorn, bush honeysuckle, multiflora rose, autumn olive, and burning bush, as these are prohibited or discouraged in Illinois. For further plant selection guidance and invasive species alternatives, consult the University of Illinois Extension and Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

Highland Park Environmental Compliance Requirements for Hedge Work Near Protected Areas

Hedge installation, removal, or major renovation near Highland Park’s streams, wetlands, or conservation areas requires strict adherence to local and state environmental regulations. Permits may be necessary for work within buffer zones adjacent to protected habitats, and coordination with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources is often required. Buffer management should prioritize native species for erosion control and habitat preservation. Seasonal restrictions may apply to protect nesting wildlife, typically from April through July. Stormwater management practices, such as silt fencing and proper grading, are essential to prevent runoff and sedimentation. For properties near sensitive areas, consult the city’s Planning Division for site-specific requirements:

Highland Park Planning Division
1150 Half Day Rd., Highland Park, IL 60035
Phone: (847) 432-0867
Official Website: Planning Division

Property Lines, Rights-of-Way & Sightline Rules for Hedges in Highland Park

Highland Park’s zoning ordinances regulate hedge placement to protect property rights, public safety, and community aesthetics. Setbacks from property lines typically range from 3 to 10 feet, depending on zoning district, with front yard hedge height limits often set at 6 to 8 feet. Sight distance triangles at intersections and driveways (usually 30-50 feet) must remain clear to ensure safe visibility for vehicles and pedestrians. Hedges must not obstruct sidewalks, fire hydrants, or utility access, and must comply with ADA accessibility standards. Major landscape installations may require permits and review by the Building Department or Community Development. Enforcement includes violation reporting, correction timelines, and potential removal orders, with appeals available through local boards. For zoning and permit guidance, contact:

Highland Park Building Department
1150 Half Day Rd., Highland Park, IL 60035
Phone: (847) 432-0808
Official Website: Building Division

Safe Pruning Standards, Wildlife Protection & Seasonal Timing in Highland Park

Professional hedge maintenance in Highland Park should follow ANSI A300 pruning standards to ensure plant health and community safety. Key practices include:

• Use of sharp, sanitized tools to prevent disease
• Structural pruning in late winter for most species
• Post-flowering pruning for spring bloomers (e.g., lilac, forsythia)
• Avoidance of topping or excessive thinning
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE): eye and hearing protection, gloves, and proper footwear
• Ladder and electrical safety near power lines
• Monitoring for Illinois-specific pests (bagworms, spider mites, powdery mildew, fire blight)
• Prioritizing organic pest management and consulting the University of Illinois Extension Plant Clinic for diagnosis

Professional certifications, such as ISA Certified Arborist and Illinois pesticide applicator licenses, are recommended for complex or chemical treatments.

Managing Hedge Waste Under Illinois Organic Waste Management Requirements

Illinois law prohibits disposal of hedge clippings in household trash or landfills, requiring participation in municipal organic waste programs or proper composting. Acceptable composting materials include healthy, non-invasive trimmings, managed with setbacks of 10-20 feet from property lines and water sources to prevent nuisances. Diseased or invasive materials (e.g., buckthorn, bush honeysuckle) must be contained and disposed of through certified municipal or regional composting facilities to prevent spread. For large projects, coordinate with the city’s yard waste collection or Transfer Station. Commercial landscapers must comply with Illinois EPA regulations and maintain proper documentation for waste handling. For more information, visit the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency.

Stormwater Protection During Hedge Work in Compliance with Highland Park's NPDES Program

Hedge work in Highland Park must incorporate stormwater protection measures to comply with the city’s NPDES (National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System) permit under the Clean Water Act and EPA NPDES requirements. Best management practices include:

• Preventing debris from entering storm drains or waterways
• Using silt fencing or mulch to control erosion during installation or removal
• Scheduling work during dry weather to minimize runoff
• Promptly cleaning up all trimmings and soil

These measures help protect local water quality and support compliance with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 5 standards. For site-specific stormwater guidance, contact the city’s Public Works Department.

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Highland Park, IL?

Hedging needs and regulations vary across Highland Park’s diverse neighborhoods:

• Ravinia: Older clay soils, moderate drainage, historic district review for hedge style, narrow parkways, and high deer pressure
• Braeside: Proximity to the Chicago Botanic Garden and Skokie River, conservation area buffer requirements, frequent shade from mature trees, and HOA restrictions
• Sheridan Road Corridor: High salt exposure from winter road treatments, wind exposure from Lake Michigan, strict sightline rules for traffic safety, and privacy screening needs
• Highlands: Urban compacted clay soils, moderate sun/shade mix, utility line proximity, and alley access affecting equipment
• Hybernia: Newer developments with engineered drainage, alkaline soils, HOA landscape standards, and seasonal maintenance coordination
• East Highland Park: River bottom alluvial soils, periodic flooding, conservation easements, and native species emphasis
• West Ridge: Loess-covered uplands, moderate wind, larger lots with privacy hedges, and less salt exposure

Each area requires tailored plant selection, regulatory compliance, and maintenance planning to address unique environmental, infrastructure, and aesthetic needs.

Highland Park Municipal Ordinances for Hedge Trimmer Operation, Noise & Commercial Service Standards

Hedge maintenance in Highland Park is governed by municipal ordinances regulating equipment operation hours, noise, and commercial service standards. Power equipment may typically be used from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM on weekdays and 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Saturdays, with additional restrictions on Sundays and holidays. Noise levels must comply with city codes to minimize disturbance. Commercial landscape services must be licensed, insured, and may require neighbor notification for major projects. For up-to-date ordinance details and compliance assistance, contact:

Highland Park Community Development Department
1150 Half Day Rd., Highland Park, IL 60035
Phone: (847) 432-0808
Official Website: Community Development Department

By following these guidelines, Highland Park residents and professionals can ensure that hedge installation and maintenance contribute to the city’s environmental health, public safety, and community character.