Lincolnwood Hedging Services

Our Hedging Process

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

Proper disposal of hedge trimmings and brush is essential for maintaining Lincolnwood’s community standards and environmental compliance. The Village of Lincolnwood operates a seasonal yard waste collection program, typically running from April through November. Residents must bundle branches and hedge debris in lengths not exceeding 4 feet and weighing no more than 50 pounds per bundle. Biodegradable paper yard waste bags are required for loose clippings, and all materials should be placed curbside on designated collection days. For large hedge renovation projects, the Lincolnwood Transfer Station accepts bulk organic debris during posted operating 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 containers, which require alternative disposal. Disposing of trimmings in streets, gutters, or storm drains is strictly prohibited to prevent violations of the Illinois yard waste landfill ban and NPDES regulations. For more information, contact:

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

Understanding Hedge Selection for Lincolnwood's Urban Compacted Clay Soils & Climate Zone 5b

Selecting appropriate hedge species for Lincolnwood requires careful consideration of the area’s USDA Hardiness Zone 5b and its prevalent urban compacted clay soils. These soils are typically heavy, with slow drainage, neutral to slightly alkaline pH, and moderate organic matter. Winter de-icing salt exposure, wind from open prairie landscapes, and urban heat island effects further influence plant health. For optimal results, choose species adapted to these conditions:

• Native/Adapted: Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius), American cranberrybush viburnum (Viburnum trilobum), winterberry holly (Ilex verticillata), chokeberry (Aronia spp.), New Jersey tea (Ceanothus americanus)
• Salt-Tolerant: Juniper (Juniperus spp.), cotoneaster (Cotoneaster lucidus), potentilla (Potentilla fruticosa), serviceberry (Amelanchier spp.)
• Shade-Tolerant: American yew (Taxus canadensis), arrowwood viburnum (Viburnum dentatum), coral berry (Symphoricarpos orbiculatus), native hydrangeas (Hydrangea arborescens)
• Drought-Resistant: Sumac (Rhus aromatica), prairie rose (Rosa setigera), leadplant (Amorpha canescens), butterfly bush alternatives (Buddleia davidii, but use native alternatives)
• Cold-Hardy: Rugosa rose (Rosa rugosa), alpine currant (Ribes alpinum), Siberian peashrub (Caragana arborescens)

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 guidance, consult:

University of Illinois Extension
Local County Office
(Contact via website)
Official Website: University of Illinois Extension

Lincolnwood Environmental Compliance Requirements for Hedge Work Near Protected Areas

Hedge installation or major renovation near Lincolnwood’s streams, wetlands, or protected natural areas requires strict adherence to environmental regulations. Coordination with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is necessary for work within buffer zones, and permits may be required for activities that could impact sensitive habitats. Buffer management should prioritize native species to support erosion control and habitat preservation. Seasonal restrictions may apply to protect nesting wildlife, particularly from April through July. Erosion control measures, such as silt fencing and proper grading, are essential during installation and maintenance to prevent sediment runoff. For properties near protected habitats or endangered species, additional buffer requirements and coordination with local conservation organizations may be necessary. For more information, contact:

Illinois Department of Natural Resources
One Natural Resources Way, Springfield, IL 62702
(217) 782-6302
Official Website: Illinois Department of Natural Resources

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

Lincolnwood’s zoning ordinances regulate hedge placement to ensure public safety and property rights. Setbacks from property lines typically range from 3 to 10 feet, depending on the zoning district. Front yard hedge heights are often limited to 6-8 feet, with side and rear yard restrictions varying by location. Sight distance triangles at intersections and driveways must be maintained, usually requiring a 30-50 foot clear zone for visibility. Hedges must not obstruct sidewalks, fire hydrants, street signs, 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 handled by local boards. For assistance, contact:

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

Safe Pruning Standards, Wildlife Protection & Seasonal Timing in Lincolnwood

Professional hedge maintenance in Lincolnwood should follow ANSI A300 pruning standards to ensure plant health and community safety. Key practices include making clean cuts just outside the branch collar, sanitizing tools between plants, and avoiding harmful techniques such as topping or excessive thinning. Pruning is best performed in late winter for structural shaping, while spring-blooming species should be pruned after flowering. Personal protective equipment (PPE) such as eye and hearing protection, gloves, and sturdy footwear is required. When working near power lines, observe electrical safety protocols and use insulated tools. Integrated pest management (IPM) is encouraged, with regular monitoring for Illinois pests like bagworms and powdery mildew, and organic treatments preferred. For complex issues, consult:

University of Illinois Extension Plant Clinic
1201 S. Dorner Drive, Urbana, IL 61801
(217) 333-0519
Official Website: University of Illinois Extension Plant Clinic

Managing Hedge Waste Under Illinois Organic Waste Management Requirements

Illinois law prohibits disposal of hedge clippings and yard waste in household trash or landfills, requiring participation in municipal organic waste programs. Lincolnwood’s collection program accepts healthy, non-invasive trimmings in biodegradable bags or properly bundled. Home composting is permitted for suitable materials, provided compost piles are set back 10-20 feet from property lines and water sources to prevent nuisances. Invasive species (e.g., buckthorn, bush honeysuckle) and diseased materials must be contained and disposed of through certified municipal or regional composting facilities to prevent spread. Commercial landscaping operations must comply with Illinois EPA regulations for organic waste management. For more information, visit:

Illinois Environmental Protection Agency
1021 North Grand Ave. East, Springfield, IL 62794
(217) 782-3397
Official Website: Illinois Environmental Protection Agency

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

Hedge work in Lincolnwood must be conducted with stormwater protection in mind, in accordance with the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) and the Clean Water Act. Debris and soil must be contained to prevent runoff into storm drains, and erosion control measures such as silt fencing or mulch should be used during installation and maintenance. The use of fertilizers and pesticides should be minimized and applied according to label instructions to prevent water contamination. Compliance with the Illinois EPA’s Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) program is required for all landscape activities. For further guidance, consult:

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 5
77 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL 60604
(312) 353-2000
Official Website: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 5

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Lincolnwood, IL?

Lincolnwood features diverse neighborhoods, each with unique hedging considerations:

• Lincolnwood Towers: Characterized by mature trees, clay soils, and historic homes, requiring compliance with architectural review and careful species selection for privacy and wind buffering.
• Proesel Park Area: High pedestrian traffic, compacted soils, and proximity to parks necessitate salt-tolerant and low-maintenance hedges, with attention to parkway regulations and sidewalk clearance.
• Sauganash Park Border: Exposed to wind and salt from major roads, this area benefits from salt- and drought-tolerant species, with special attention to utility line locations and traffic sightlines.
• East Lincolnwood (Devon Corridor): Urban heat island effects and limited green space require drought-resistant, compact hedges, with strict adherence to setback and height restrictions.
• Central Lincolnwood: Mixed-use zoning and higher density call for noise-buffering and privacy hedges, with coordination for alley access and emergency vehicle clearance.
• North Lincolnwood (Touhy Area): Commercial proximity increases noise and salt exposure, making robust, salt-tolerant species and regular maintenance essential.
• West Lincolnwood (Crawford Corridor): Larger lots and open exposures require windbreaks and deer-resistant species, with attention to drainage and HOA guidelines.

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

Lincolnwood enforces specific ordinances for hedge trimmer operation to protect community well-being. Power equipment may be operated 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 local ordinances, and commercial service providers are required to maintain proper licensing, insurance, and, where applicable, notification of neighbors prior to major work. All operators must follow safety protocols and ensure compliance with municipal and state regulations. For details on licensing and enforcement, contact:

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