Lincolnwood Brush Removal Services

Our Brush Removal Process

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

Lincolnwood offers comprehensive brush disposal programs to support responsible yard waste management and environmental compliance. Residents can utilize seasonal curbside collection (April–November), following strict guidelines: brush must be bundled in 4-foot lengths, weigh under 50 pounds per bundle, and be tied with biodegradable twine—plastic is strictly prohibited. Yard waste drop-off is available at designated municipal sites during posted hours, with resident permits or stickers required for access. Commercial contractors must adhere to 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.

Lincolnwood Department of Public Works
7001 N. Lawndale Ave., Lincolnwood, IL 60712
Phone: (847) 675-0888
Official Website: Lincolnwood Public Works Department

Lincolnwood Fire Department Coordination for Open Burning Permits & Safety Requirements

Open burning of brush is highly regulated in Lincolnwood and throughout Cook County, with most suburban municipalities prohibiting or strictly limiting the practice due to air quality and fire safety concerns. Where burning is permitted, residents must obtain a daily permit from the Fire Department, adhere to setback requirements (typically 50–150 feet from structures), and ensure constant supervision with water or fire extinguishers on hand. Burning of leaves, construction debris, or plastics is never allowed. Fire weather restrictions are enforced in coordination with the National Weather Service Chicago, and burning is suspended during red flag warnings or county-wide bans. Residents are encouraged to create defensible space around structures and maintain emergency vehicle access, especially in areas near forest preserves or open land.

Lincolnwood Fire Department
6900 N. Lincoln Ave., Lincolnwood, IL 60712
Phone: (847) 673-1545
Official Website: Lincolnwood Fire Department

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

Lincolnwood’s brush management must address both native and invasive species, with buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica, Frangula alnus) dominating local understories, along with bush honeysuckles (Lonicera spp.), multiflora rose (Rosa multiflora), and autumn olive (Elaeagnus umbellata). Proper identification is critical, as invasive species require specialized disposal:

• Remove before seed set (June–September for buckthorn, honeysuckle)
• Bag all berries and seeds for landfill disposal (never compost or chip)
• Sanitize equipment between sites to prevent spread
• Follow Illinois Department of Natural Resources and Illinois EPA guidance Hazardous vegetation such as poison ivy, wild parsnip, and tick habitats require protective measures. Restoration with native shrubs (serviceberry, viburnum) and prairie species supports ecosystem recovery and aligns with local conservation goals, including those of the Cook County Forest Preserve District.

Lincolnwood Environmental Commission Requirements for Brush Removal Near Wetlands & Protected Areas

Brush removal near Lincolnwood’s wetlands, streams, and protected areas is subject to oversight by the Environmental Commission, with buffer zones (typically 10–25 feet) requiring permits and compliance with local and state environmental regulations. Erosion control is essential on slopes and heavy clay soils, using silt fencing or erosion control blankets to prevent sediment runoff. Wildlife protection is mandated during the April–August breeding season, including surveys for nesting birds, bat roosts, and mammal dens. Selective removal techniques preserve beneficial habitat features, and brush piles may be strategically retained for wildlife shelter. Coordination with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources is recommended for rare species or sensitive habitats.

Lincolnwood Environmental Commission
6900 N. Lincoln Ave., Lincolnwood, IL 60712
Phone: (847) 745-4710
Official Website: Lincolnwood Environmental Commission

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

Professional brush removal in Lincolnwood requires adherence to rigorous safety and certification standards. Complex removals should be performed by ISA Certified Arborists, with all operators trained in invasive species management and equipment safety (chainsaws, chippers, brush hogs). 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). Liability insurance (minimum $1M per occurrence), environmental impairment coverage, and workers’ compensation are required for all commercial operators. Proof of JULIE compliance and utility coordination is essential for public safety.

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

Lincolnwood’s climate (Zone 5a–6a) and heavy clay soils require careful timing for brush removal. The optimal window is December–March, when frozen ground minimizes soil compaction and wildlife is less vulnerable. Early spring (March–April) is suitable before nesting season, while late fall (October–November) follows breeding season completion. Work should be avoided during May–August to protect nesting birds and during wet periods to prevent rutting of clay soils. Weather coordination is essential: avoid high winds (over 20–25 mph), saturated soils, and extreme temperatures. Fire weather awareness is critical, with burning restrictions enforced during red flag warnings and droughts. Wildlife surveys are required before removal during breeding season, with documentation for protected species encounters.

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

After brush removal, immediate site stabilization is required to comply with Lincolnwood’s MS4 permit under the Clean Water Act, protecting the Lake Michigan watershed. Erosion control measures (mulch, erosion blankets, silt fencing) are critical for exposed clay soils. Restoration should prioritize native Illinois species adapted to local conditions, with soil amendments to address compaction. Construction phase protection includes proper equipment staging, daily cleanup, and containment of debris. Long-term management involves monitoring for invasive regrowth (buckthorn, honeysuckle), maintenance of restored areas, and, if necessary, licensed herbicide application in accordance with Illinois Department of Agriculture - Pesticide Regulations. Coordination with Illinois EPA Water Quality & Watershed Management is recommended.

Storm Debris Management & Emergency Response Coordination with Lincolnwood

Severe weather events in the Chicago area often generate significant brush and storm debris. Lincolnwood coordinates emergency collection through public communications, with clear instructions for separating organic brush from construction debris and household items. Priority is given to clearing emergency routes and major thoroughfares, with extended collection hours or temporary drop-off sites as needed. FEMA coordination may be required for major disasters, with documentation for federal assistance and temporary debris storage sites designated by the municipality. Safety protocols include traffic control, utility company coordination for downed lines, and public safety measures during cleanup. Residents should follow all emergency instructions and report hazardous conditions promptly.

Lincolnwood Police Department
6900 N. Lincoln Ave., Lincolnwood, IL 60712
Phone: (847) 673-2167
Official Website: Lincolnwood Police Department

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Lincolnwood, IL?

Lincolnwood encompasses diverse neighborhoods, each with unique brush management needs:

• Proesel Park area: Mature tree canopy, high buckthorn pressure, narrow streets limit equipment access
• Lincolnwood Towers: Larger lots, proximity to forest preserves, higher risk of invasive spread, HOA landscaping standards
• East Lincolnwood: Denser housing, overhead utilities, alley access, moderate invasive presence
• Sauganash Park border: Wetland proximity, conservation easements, sensitive drainage patterns
• Devon-Lawndale corridor: Commercial-residential mix, traffic control needs, utility density
• Central Lincolnwood: Established neighborhoods, heavy clay soils, mature brush, property value-driven restoration expectations
• North Lincolnwood: Newer developments, less invasive pressure, modern infrastructure, easier equipment access Disposal logistics vary by area, with some neighborhoods relying on curbside pickup and others utilizing drop-off sites or municipal chipping services.

Lincolnwood Municipal Ordinances for Brush Removal Equipment Operation & Commercial Service Standards

Lincolnwood enforces strict ordinances governing brush removal equipment operation and commercial service standards. Equipment may typically be operated between 7 AM–9 PM on weekdays and 8 AM–9 PM on Saturdays, with Sunday restrictions in place—residents should verify current regulations. Commercial operators must be licensed, carry comprehensive insurance, and comply with all safety and noise ordinances. Public safety is prioritized through traffic control measures and maintenance of emergency access routes. Enforcement is managed by Code Enforcement, with penalties for violations such as illegal dumping, improper equipment use, or non-compliance with disposal and safety standards. Residents and contractors are encouraged to consult municipal codes for detailed requirements.

Lincolnwood Community Development Department
6900 N. Lincoln Ave., Lincolnwood, IL 60712
Phone: (847) 673-7402
Official Website: Lincolnwood Community Development Department