Glencoe Brush Removal Services

Our Brush Removal Process

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

Glencoe offers comprehensive brush disposal programs to support responsible vegetation management and environmental compliance. Residents can participate in seasonal curbside yard waste collection, typically running from April through November. Bundles must be under 50 pounds, no longer than 4 feet, and tied with biodegradable twine—plastic is strictly prohibited. Yard waste drop-off sites are available with posted hours; resident permits or stickers may be required, and commercial contractors must follow fee structures for bulk loads. Municipal chipping services are coordinated through the Department of Public Works and, where available, the Glencoe Park District, with finished mulch often provided to residents. All brush must be separated from leaves and free of contaminants, in accordance with the Illinois Environmental Protection Act (415 ILCS 5). Never place brush in household trash or dispose of it in the street or storm drains, as this can impact the Lake Michigan watershed and result in penalties. For more information, contact:

Glencoe Department of Public Works
675 Village Court, Glencoe, IL 60022
Phone: (847) 835-4111
Official Website: Public Works Department

Glencoe Fire Department Coordination for Open Burning Permits & Safety Requirements

Open burning of brush in Glencoe is subject to strict municipal and county regulations, with many Chicago suburbs—including Glencoe—prohibiting or severely restricting open burning due to air quality and public 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 a water source on hand. Burning is never allowed for leaves, construction debris, or treated materials. Fire weather restrictions are enforced in coordination with the National Weather Service Chicago, and burning may be suspended during red flag warnings or county-wide bans. Always check current regulations and obtain approval before any open burning. For guidance, contact:

Glencoe Fire Department
675 Village Court, Glencoe, IL 60022
Phone: (847) 835-4111
Official Website: Public Safety Department (Fire and Police)

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

Glencoe’s brush management must address several invasive species common to the Chicago area, including:

• Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica, Frangula alnus)
• Bush Honeysuckles (Lonicera spp.)
• Multiflora Rose (Rosa multiflora)
• Autumn Olive (Elaeagnus umbellata)

These species require specialized removal and disposal protocols: remove before fruit sets (June-September), bag all berries, and dispose of invasives at a landfill—never compost or chip for mulch. Equipment must be sanitized between sites to prevent disease spread. Hazardous vegetation such as poison ivy, wild parsnip, and tick habitats require protective measures. Restoration with native Illinois species (serviceberry, viburnum, prairie grasses) is encouraged to support local ecosystems and prevent reinfestation.

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

Brush removal near wetlands, streams, or protected areas in Glencoe is regulated to protect sensitive habitats and water quality. Permits may be required for work within 10-25 feet of wetlands or streams, and erosion control measures are mandatory on slopes, especially in heavy clay soils prone to runoff. Wildlife protection is essential: surveys for nesting birds (April-August), bat roosts, and mammal dens must be conducted before removal. Selective removal techniques help preserve beneficial habitat features, and brush piles may be strategically left for wildlife shelter. For environmental compliance and permit guidance, contact:

Glencoe Environmental Commission
675 Village Court, Glencoe, IL 60022
Phone: (847) 835-4111
Official Website: Sustainability Task Force / Environmental Programs

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

Professional brush removal in Glencoe requires adherence to strict safety and certification standards. Complex removals should be performed by ISA Certified Arborists, and all operators must be trained and certified for equipment such as chippers and 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), workers’ compensation, and bonding are required for all commercial contractors. For more information, contact:

Glencoe Community Development Department
675 Village Court, Glencoe, IL 60022
Phone: (847) 835-4111
Official Website: Community Development Department

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

Optimal timing for brush removal in Glencoe’s Zone 5a-6a climate is during the winter (December-March) when the ground is frozen, minimizing soil compaction and rutting in heavy clay soils. Early spring (March-April) is also suitable before wildlife breeding season begins, while late fall (October-November) is ideal after breeding concludes. Avoid removal from May through August to protect nesting birds and other wildlife. Always monitor weather forecasts via the National Weather Service Chicago to avoid work during high winds, saturated soils, or red flag fire warnings. Schedule work to prevent equipment damage and ensure ecological protection.

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

After brush removal, immediate site stabilization is required to protect the Lake Michigan watershed and comply with Glencoe’s MS4 permit under the Clean Water Act. Erosion control measures—such as silt fencing, mulching, and erosion control blankets—are critical for exposed clay soils. Restoration should use native Illinois plants adapted to local conditions, and soil amendments may be necessary to address compaction. Construction phase protection includes proper equipment staging and daily cleanup to prevent debris migration. Long-term management involves monitoring for invasive regrowth and maintaining restored areas, with herbicide use regulated by the Illinois Department of Agriculture - Pesticide Regulations. For water quality guidance, see Illinois EPA Water Quality & Watershed Management.

Storm Debris Management & Emergency Response Coordination with Glencoe

Severe weather events in the Chicago area can generate significant storm debris, requiring coordinated emergency response. Glencoe issues emergency collection announcements and may extend yard waste collection hours or open temporary drop-off sites. Residents must separate organic brush from construction debris and place materials at the curb without blocking streets. Priority is given to clearing emergency routes, and coordination with the Public Works, Police, and Fire Departments ensures public safety. For major disasters, FEMA documentation and temporary debris storage sites may be activated. Utility companies (e.g., ComEd) are contacted for power line clearance. For emergency procedures, contact:

Glencoe Police Department
675 Village Court, Glencoe, IL 60022
Phone: (847) 835-4112
Official Website: Police Department

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Glencoe, IL?

Glencoe’s neighborhoods each present unique brush management challenges:

• Historic Districts: Mature tree canopies, dense buckthorn understories, narrow streets, and overhead utilities require careful equipment access and invasive management.
• Ravine Areas: Proximity to wetlands and steep slopes necessitate erosion control and environmental permits.
• Newer Subdivisions: Lower invasive pressure, but HOA requirements and deed restrictions may apply.
• Lakefront Communities: Sensitive habitats, high property values, and strict restoration standards.
• Forest Preserve Borders: Increased invasive species pressure, wildlife habitat considerations, and coordination with Cook County Forest Preserve District.
• Central Glencoe: Mixed vegetation, moderate utility density, and easy access to municipal collection routes.
• West Glencoe: Heavy clay soils, drainage challenges, and seasonal water table fluctuations. Disposal logistics vary by area, with some neighborhoods relying on curbside pickup and others utilizing drop-off sites or municipal chipping services.

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

Glencoe enforces strict regulations for brush removal equipment operation and commercial service standards. Equipment may typically be operated from 7 AM to 9 PM on weekdays and 8 AM to 9 PM on Saturdays; Sunday and holiday restrictions may apply—verify with the Community Development Department. Commercial contractors must be licensed, carry comprehensive insurance, and comply with public safety requirements, including traffic control and emergency access. Code Enforcement oversees compliance, and violations may result in penalties. All operations must adhere to noise ordinances and municipal standards for environmental protection and public safety. For ordinance details, contact:

Glencoe Community Development Department
675 Village Court, Glencoe, IL 60022
Phone: (847) 835-4111
Official Website: Community Development Department