Highland Park Pruning Services

Our Pruning Process

Contact Highland Park's Department of Public Works for Public Tree Permits & Pruning Debris Disposal

Pruning any tree located on public property or within the parkway in Highland Park requires advance approval from the Department of Public Works. Residents and contractors must submit permit applications for public tree work, with typical notice requirements of 7-14 days before the intended start date. Significant pruning or removal may require a public hearing, while emergency work protocols allow for expedited authorization. The city enforces strict parkway tree regulations, right-of-way requirements, and special protections in historic districts. Debris from pruning must be managed through municipal yard waste programs, which require biodegradable paper bags or brush bundles no longer than four feet. The city also offers chipping and mulching services, and permits may be needed for access to composting facilities. For all public tree work, coordination with municipal forestry and planning programs is essential to ensure compliance and protect community resources.

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

Understanding ANSI A300 Pruning Standards & Tree Health Assessment Requirements in Highland Park

All pruning operations in Highland Park must adhere to ANSI A300 Pruning Standards, which require the use of proper techniques such as the three-cut method for branches over two inches in diameter and prohibit harmful practices like topping, flush cuts, lion's tailing, and over-thinning. A comprehensive tree health assessment is mandatory before any work, including evaluation of structural integrity, hazard identification (such as dead branches or decay), and pest or disease presence. Species-specific timing is critical: oaks and elms should only be pruned during the dormant season to prevent disease, while maples and flowering trees require careful scheduling to minimize stress. Only ISA Certified Arborists or those with equivalent credentials should perform structural pruning, and continuing education is expected to maintain professional standards. Coordination with the University of Illinois Extension is recommended for diagnostic support and best practice updates.

Illinois Environmental Protection Agency Requirements for Pruning Near Waterways & Protected Areas

Pruning near Highland Park’s waterways, wetlands, or protected areas is subject to oversight by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency. Work in these sensitive zones requires coordination with watershed protection programs and strict adherence to sediment and erosion control measures. Debris containment is essential to prevent water quality impacts, and equipment must not compact soil in critical root zones. Temporary erosion controls are required for slope work, and all debris must be staged away from runoff pathways. Wildlife habitat protection is also mandated, with seasonal restrictions during nesting periods and consultation with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources for rare species. Cavity trees must be assessed for bat and bird habitat, and active nests or dens require work rescheduling to avoid disturbance.

Municipal Tree Protection Ordinances & Professional Standards in Highland Park

Highland Park enforces robust tree protection ordinances, including permit thresholds for both public and private property (typically 6-8 inches DBH for private trees, all public trees). Heritage or landmark trees receive special designation and protection, with detailed permit application and review procedures. The Community Development Department oversees documentation, inspection, and coordination with the Building Department for work affecting structures. Utility company coordination is required for line clearance, and emergency response protocols are in place for storm damage. Enforcement includes violation reporting, correction procedures, and appeal processes. Professional liability standards mandate commercial general liability insurance (minimum $1 million), workers’ compensation, and bonding for municipal contracts.

Community Development Department
1150 Half Day Rd., Highland Park, IL 60035
Phone: (847) 432-0800
Official Website: Community Development Department

Seasonal Pruning Calendar, Wildlife Protection & Species-Specific Timing for Highland Park's Climate Zone 5b

Highland Park is located in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b, which shapes the optimal timing for pruning. Dormant season (February-March and December-February) is best for most species, especially oaks and elms, to prevent disease transmission. Post-flowering pruning (May-June) is suitable for spring-blooming trees, while summer pruning is limited to emergency hazard removal. Fall pruning is generally discouraged except for select species. Disease management timing is critical: oak wilt prevention requires strict dormant season work, Dutch elm disease management involves immediate removal of diseased wood, and emerald ash borer response must be coordinated with treatment schedules. Tool sanitation between trees is mandatory, using 70% isopropyl alcohol or a 10% bleach solution. Wildlife protection protocols require nesting bird surveys from March through August, visual inspections for active nests, and rescheduling if wildlife is present. Weather coordination, including avoiding extreme heat, drought, or high winds, is essential for safe and effective operations.

Safety Regulations, Insurance Requirements & Utility Coordination for Pruning Operations in Highland Park

All pruning operations must comply with ANSI Z133.1 Safety Standards, which require personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hard hats, eye and face protection, chainsaw chaps, and fall protection for aerial work. Equipment must be inspected daily, with chainsaw operator certification and annual climbing gear checks. Electrical safety is paramount: maintain a minimum 10-foot distance from power lines, and only qualified line clearance arborists may work near utilities. Emergency contact procedures and utility company coordination are required before work begins. Insurance requirements include at least $1 million in general liability coverage, workers’ compensation for all employees, and bonding for municipal contracts. Professional liability insurance is recommended for consulting and assessment services.

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

Integrated Pest Management & Disease Prevention Through Proper Pruning in Highland Park

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is central to Highland Park’s approach, emphasizing strategic pruning to remove diseased wood, improve air circulation, and reduce pest habitat. Sanitation practices, including tool disinfection between trees, are required to prevent pathogen transmission, especially in areas affected by oak wilt or Dutch elm disease. Monitoring and follow-up inspections are scheduled 30 days and seasonally after pruning to identify secondary issues. Coordination with University of Illinois Extension and municipal disease monitoring programs ensures up-to-date practices and rapid response to pest outbreaks such as emerald ash borer. Participation in regional forest health initiatives and early detection networks is encouraged for comprehensive urban forest protection.

Post-Pruning Debris Management & Illinois Organic Waste Requirements

Illinois law prohibits disposal of wood waste in household trash, requiring participation in municipal yard waste programs. Highland Park residents must use biodegradable paper bags or bundle brush for curbside collection, and on-site chipping is encouraged for mulch production. Larger wood from valuable species may be directed to sawmills, while smaller material is composted or processed for biomass energy. Diseased material, such as oak wilt or Dutch elm disease-infected wood, must be removed immediately and disposed of in accordance with Illinois Department of Agriculture protocols. Invasive species quarantine procedures are enforced for emerald ash borer-infested material. Prompt cleanup of streets and sidewalks is required to maintain public safety and protect storm drainage systems.

Protecting Highland Park's Urban Forest Through Sustainable Pruning & Community Stewardship

Sustainable pruning is vital for the health and longevity of Highland Park’s urban forest, supporting canopy coverage goals, species diversity, and climate resilience. Proper pruning enhances structural integrity, reduces disease transmission, and maintains the community’s aesthetic character. The city integrates pruning with broader sustainability initiatives, including stormwater management, air quality improvement, and wildlife habitat support. Community involvement is encouraged through volunteer workshops, citizen science tree monitoring, and participation in Arbor Day events. Long-term planning addresses succession for aging trees, climate adaptation, and collaboration with neighboring municipalities for regional forest health.

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Highland Park, IL?

Highland Park’s neighborhoods each present unique pruning challenges:

• Ravinia District: Mature oaks and elms, historic district permit requirements, overhead utility conflicts, proximity to Ravinia Park and wetlands, high community engagement.
• Braeside: Diverse species mix, conservation easements, underground utilities, rain gardens, and MS4 stormwater areas, strong property value expectations.
• Sheridan Road Corridor: Landmark trees, architectural review for historic properties, arterial street traffic control, lakefront environmental sensitivities, seasonal occupancy patterns.
• Highlands: Predominantly maples and ash, HOA regulations, residential street coordination, moderate pest pressure, active neighborhood stewardship.
• Hybernia: Newer developments with young trees, irrigation and underground utility considerations, HOA approval processes, stormwater management features, high maintenance standards.
• East Highland Park: Large estates with heritage trees, complex permit procedures, private road access, proximity to ravines and rare species habitats, strong aesthetic expectations.
• West Ridge: Mixed-age tree population, moderate regulatory complexity, sidewalk and street tree integration, community park adjacency, active resident participation.

Highland Park Municipal Ordinances for Pruning Equipment Operation & Commercial Service Standards

Highland Park regulates pruning equipment operation with permitted hours typically from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM on weekdays and 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM on weekends. Noise restrictions and decibel limitations apply, especially in residential areas and during sensitive hours. Commercial service providers must obtain a business license, register as contractors, and provide proof of insurance (minimum $1 million general liability, workers’ compensation, and professional liability). Bonding is required for municipal contracts, and arborist certification must be verified. Safety protocols include traffic control, work zone setup, and compliance with ANSI Z133 standards. Environmental compliance mandates proper material handling, vehicle maintenance, immediate cleanup, and documentation of waste disposal in accordance with Illinois Environmental Protection Agency and local ordinances.

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