Highland Park Lawn Edging Services

Our Lawn Edging Process

Contact Highland Park's Department of Public Works for Edging Debris Disposal & Municipal Right-of-Way Coordination

Proper disposal of lawn edging debris in Highland Park is governed by municipal waste management programs and right-of-way regulations. Soil, sod strips, and organic debris from edging must be placed in biodegradable paper bags or prepared for loose collection during the city's seasonal yard waste pickups. For bulk materials or old edging (metal, plastic, concrete), residents should utilize the Transfer Station or Recycling Center, observing posted operating hours, permit requirements, and applicable fees. Advance notification is required for any edging work adjacent to sidewalks, streets, or parkways to coordinate with municipal schedules and protect street trees. Material staging must prevent debris migration into storm drains, and immediate cleanup is essential to comply with the Illinois yard waste landfill ban and local environmental standards. Integration with municipal projects, such as sidewalk replacement or beautification initiatives, is coordinated through the Department of Public Works.

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

Property Line Compliance, Setback Requirements & Utility Protection for Lawn Edging in Highland Park

Lawn edging projects in Highland Park must comply with local zoning ordinances, which typically require setbacks of 3-10 feet from property lines, sidewalks, and streets, depending on the zoning district. Before any excavation, Illinois law mandates contacting JULIE (811) at least 48 hours in advance to locate and mark underground utilities, including irrigation, lighting, and dog fences. Hand-digging is required near marked lines to prevent damage. Safety protocols include the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety glasses, hearing protection, steel-toed boots, and cut-resistant gloves. Public safety is prioritized by maintaining clear sight triangles at intersections and driveways, and avoiding obstruction of fire hydrants or emergency routes. Professional liability insurance and bonding are required for commercial services, and all work must be coordinated with the Building Department for permit and inspection compliance.

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

Highland Park Environmental Compliance Requirements for Edging Near Protected Areas

Environmental stewardship is central to edging near Highland Park’s streams, lakes, wetlands, and conservation areas. Coordination with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (Illinois EPA) is required for work within buffer zones or near protected habitats. Permits may be necessary, and seasonal restrictions often apply during wildlife breeding periods (April–July). Edging near mature trees requires root system protection, and only non-toxic, chemically inert materials should be used near water bodies. Erosion control measures, such as silt fences or straw wattles, must be installed where soil disturbance occurs, and all projects must comply with Illinois EPA erosion control standards. Advance consultation with local environmental officers and documentation for larger projects are essential for compliance.

Professional Edging Material Selection & Installation Techniques for Highland Park's Prairie Clay & Glacial Till Soils

Highland Park’s soils, as identified by the USDA Web Soil Survey, are predominantly heavy prairie clay and glacial till, which influence material selection and installation methods. Material options include:

• Flexible Plastic/Rubber Edging: Cost-effective ($0.50–$1.50/ft), easy to install, suitable for curves, 5–10 year lifespan
• Metal Edging (Aluminum/Steel): Durable ($2–$4/ft), clean lines, 15–25 year lifespan, requires corrosion-resistant coatings for salt and moisture
• Natural Stone/Brick: Aesthetic ($3–$8/ft), permeable, ideal for historic districts, permanent installation
• Poured Concrete Curbing: Most durable ($4–$10/ft), custom designs, 25+ year lifespan, excellent for freeze-thaw cycles Installation requires excavation to 6–8 inches, with a 3/4" crushed stone base for drainage and stability below the frost line (36–48 inches). Proper alignment, grade maintenance, and backfill compaction are critical to prevent frost heaving and accommodate clay soil expansion.

Seasonal Edging Calendar & Weather Timing for Highland Park's Climate Zone 5b

Highland Park is located in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b, with a climate characterized by cold winters and warm, humid summers. The optimal spring window for edging is April–May, after ground thaw and before peak growth. Summer installations (June–August) are feasible but should avoid extreme heat. Fall (September–October) is ideal for establishing edges before winter. Winter work (November–March) is discouraged due to frozen ground and equipment limitations. Weather coordination using National Weather Service Chicago forecasts is essential to ensure proper soil moisture, avoid muddy conditions, and schedule concrete work above 50°F. Operations should be timed to minimize plant and wildlife disturbance and coordinated with municipal maintenance schedules.

Stormwater Management & NPDES Compliance During Edging Operations in Highland Park

Edging operations must comply with Highland Park’s NPDES permit requirements under the Clean Water Act and EPA NPDES MS4 program. Preventing soil and debris from entering storm drains is critical, especially in areas with clay soils prone to poor drainage. Proper grading maintains natural water flow, and permeable materials like stone or brick can enhance infiltration. During construction, debris must be promptly removed from streets and sidewalks, and wet cutting methods are preferred to control dust and slurry. Long-term, well-installed edging improves property drainage and supports Highland Park’s green infrastructure initiatives. Coordination with the Engineering Department ensures compliance with municipal stormwater management standards.

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

Integration with Municipal Sidewalk, Curbing & ADA Accessibility Requirements

Lawn edging near sidewalks and curbs in Highland Park must comply with municipal infrastructure and ADA accessibility standards. Coordination with the Building and Engineering Departments is required for any work affecting public property, including sidewalk replacement or curb ramp installation. Edging must allow for flush transitions and not impede pedestrian access. Public safety is maintained through proper signage, barriers, and emergency vehicle access during operations. Inspection and approval procedures ensure compliance with municipal engineering standards, and documentation is required for permitted projects. The Planning Department should be consulted for significant modifications or projects in historic or high-traffic areas.

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

Post-Edging Maintenance & Long-Term Landscape Management in Highland Park

Ongoing maintenance is essential for the longevity and effectiveness of lawn edging in Highland Park. Monthly inspections during the growing season help identify alignment issues, frost heaving, or settling—common in local clay soils. Seasonal adjustments are necessary after freeze-thaw cycles, and weed control along edge lines should be integrated with regular lawn care. Mowing, fertilization, and irrigation schedules must be coordinated to prevent damage to edging materials. Spring repairs, summer monitoring, fall debris removal, and winter protection (including snow removal considerations) are all part of a comprehensive maintenance plan. Long-term planning includes scheduling material replacement based on expected lifespans and integrating edging with broader landscape improvements.

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Highland Park, IL?

Highland Park features diverse neighborhoods, each with unique edging considerations:

• Ravinia District: Historic bungalows, narrow lots, and mature trees require careful property line verification, root protection, and coordination with historic preservation standards.
• Braeside: Proximity to the Skokie River and conservation areas necessitates environmental permits, buffer zone management, and erosion control.
• Sheridan Road Corridor: Large estates with complex property lines, extensive parkways, and high utility density demand detailed planning, right-of-way coordination, and robust material selection for clay soils.
• Highlands: Suburban lots with alleys and frequent sidewalk replacements require integration with municipal schedules and ADA compliance.
• East Highland Park: Lakefront properties face floodplain regulations, mature tree protection, and strict aesthetic standards for community character preservation.
• Sunset Park: Family neighborhoods with active homeowner associations require adherence to association guidelines, frequent inspections, and integration with community beautification projects.
• Hybernia: Newer developments with prairie-style landscaping and HOA standards emphasize native plant integration, permeable materials, and stormwater management.

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

Highland Park regulates the operation of landscaping equipment to minimize noise and ensure public safety. Equipment may only be operated during designated hours, typically 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM on weekdays and 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekends. Commercial landscape services must be licensed and insured, with proof of comprehensive general liability coverage and bonding for municipal work. Operators are required to follow safety protocols, including PPE use and equipment maintenance. The Police Department may require traffic control permits for work near roadways, and all commercial services must comply with city ordinances regarding debris containment, public safety, and environmental protection.

Highland Park Police Department
1707 St Johns Avenue, Highland Park, IL 60035
Phone: (847) 432-7730
Official Website: Police Department