Highland Park Junk Removal Services

Our Junk Removal Process

Contact Highland Park's Department of Public Works for Bulk Item Disposal & Transfer Station Requirements

Highland Park residents rely on the Department of Public Works (DPW) for comprehensive waste management, including access to the Transfer Station and bulk item disposal services. The Transfer Station, located at 1150 Half Day Rd, operates Tuesday through Friday from 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Residents must present proof of residency, such as a utility bill or government-issued ID, and may require a permit or sticker for certain services. Accepted materials include household waste, recyclables, yard waste (seasonally), and select bulk items. Prohibited items include hazardous waste, electronics, tires, and construction debris. Fees vary by material type and volume, with special rates for large loads. Bulk item collection is available by appointment; residents must schedule pickups in advance, prepare items (e.g., mattresses wrapped in plastic, appliances certified for refrigerant removal), and adhere to placement guidelines. Special collection events for electronics, textiles, and scrap metal are held periodically. For detailed information, contact:

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

Understanding Illinois Waste Regulations & Highland Park's Recycling Requirements for Junk Removal

Junk removal in Highland Park is governed by the Illinois Environmental Protection Act and enforced locally through municipal ordinances. Residents must separate recyclables—cardboard, metals, plastics, glass, and textiles—from general waste. Electronics, such as TVs and computers, are banned from landfills and must be recycled through certified programs under the Illinois Electronic Products Recycling and Reuse Act. Appliances containing refrigerants require certified removal before disposal. Tires, yard waste, and construction materials are also subject to specific handling and landfill bans. Highland Park implements these requirements through curbside recycling, special collection events, and partnerships with certified facilities. Compliance ensures environmental protection and avoids penalties. For more on state regulations, visit the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency.

Highland Park Board of Health Guidelines for Safe & Sanitary Junk Removal Operations

The Highland Park Board of Health, in coordination with the Lake County Health Department, oversees public health standards for junk removal. Improper storage or disposal of junk can attract rodents and insects, create unsanitary conditions, and pose injury risks from sharp or unstable materials. Residents must stage items for collection no more than 24-48 hours before scheduled pickup, use weather-resistant coverings, and secure loose materials to prevent scattering. Standing water in discarded items should be eliminated to prevent mosquito breeding. Illegal dumping is strictly prohibited; violations can be reported to Code Enforcement for prompt investigation. Maintaining clean, safe properties protects community health and prevents environmental contamination. For health-related concerns or to report violations, contact:

Lake County Health Department
3010 Grand Avenue, Waukegan, IL 60085
Phone: (847) 377-8000
Official Website: Lake County Health Department

Hazardous Waste & Electronics Disposal Regulations in Highland Park

Proper identification and disposal of hazardous waste are critical for public safety and environmental protection. Common household hazardous wastes include paints, solvents, pesticides, automotive fluids, batteries, fluorescent bulbs, and propane tanks. These materials are strictly prohibited from regular trash, curbside bulk pickup, and the Transfer Station. Highland Park participates in regional household hazardous waste collection events and partners with Lake County for permanent drop-off facilities. Residents must keep hazardous materials in original containers, label them clearly, and never mix different substances. Universal waste—such as batteries, mercury devices, and certain lamps—requires specialized handling and documentation under Illinois EPA rules. Electronics must be recycled through certified programs. Non-compliance can result in fines and environmental liability. For hazardous waste guidance, consult the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency.

Highland Park Building Department Requirements for Construction & Demolition Debris

Construction and demolition (C&D) debris management in Highland Park is regulated by the Building Department and must comply with state and local requirements. Permits are required for major cleanouts, renovations, and demolition projects. Contractors and property owners must separate concrete, asphalt, brick, metal, and clean wood for recycling, and use licensed haulers for debris transport. Hazardous materials, such as asbestos and lead paint, require assessment and certified abatement. Dumpster placement in public rights-of-way needs a permit, and temporary obstructions must be coordinated with city officials. Documentation of proper disposal at certified facilities is mandatory. For permit applications, compliance verification, and construction waste management plans, contact:

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

Protecting Highland Park's Environment Through Proper Waste Stream Management & Illegal Dumping Prevention

Improper junk disposal threatens Highland Park’s sensitive environmental resources, including Lake Michigan, the Skokie River, and local wetlands. Debris can pollute waterways, harm wildlife, and degrade conservation areas. The city enforces strict penalties for illegal dumping, with remediation costs and legal liability for violators. Residents and contractors must prevent debris from entering storm drains and comply with stormwater management requirements under the EPA NPDES and Illinois EPA MS4 program. Proper containment, erosion control, and wash water management are essential during large-scale cleanouts. Activities near wetlands or protected habitats require coordination with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. To report illegal dumping or environmental violations, contact:

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

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Highland Park, IL?

Highland Park’s diverse neighborhoods present unique junk removal challenges and regulatory considerations:

• Ravinia District: Historic homes may require lead/asbestos awareness during cleanouts; narrow streets and mature trees limit truck access.
• Braeside: Proximity to the Skokie River and conservation areas necessitates strict environmental compliance and careful debris containment.
• Highlands: Suburban layout with larger lots generates more bulk waste; alley access varies, affecting collection logistics.
• Sheridan Road Corridor: Estate properties and frequent renovations produce significant construction debris; right-of-way permits often needed for dumpsters.
• Downtown Highland Park: Mixed-use buildings and multi-family residences require coordinated disposal schedules and shared service responsibilities.
• Fort Sheridan: Gated community protocols and historic preservation rules impact access and allowable disposal methods.
• Sunset Park: Senior communities may need assistance with estate cleanouts and have special collection needs.

Each area may have different collection schedules, Transfer Station access requirements, and environmental sensitivities. Residents should consult the DPW for neighborhood-specific guidance.

Highland Park Municipal Ordinances for Commercial Junk Removal Operations & Equipment Use

Commercial junk removal in Highland Park is regulated to ensure public safety, minimize disruption, and protect the environment. Service providers must obtain proper licensing, maintain insurance and bonding, and comply with local ordinances governing equipment operation hours and noise restrictions. Permits are required for large-scale operations, including dumpster placement in public rights-of-way. All commercial haulers must use certified disposal facilities and provide documentation of regulatory compliance. Right-of-way permits are necessary for temporary obstructions, and strict adherence to safety standards is enforced. For detailed requirements and permit applications, contact:

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

By following Highland Park’s municipal guidelines and Illinois state regulations, residents and businesses can ensure safe, legal, and environmentally responsible junk removal, supporting public health and the community’s long-term sustainability.