Glenview Brush Removal Services

Our Brush Removal Process

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

Glenview offers comprehensive brush disposal programs to support responsible vegetation management and environmental compliance. Residents can utilize seasonal curbside yard waste collection, typically available from April through November. Bundles must be under 4 feet in length, weigh less than 50 pounds, and be tied with biodegradable twine—plastic is strictly prohibited. Yard waste drop-off sites require a resident permit or sticker, and commercial contractors may be subject to additional fees for bulk loads. Municipal chipping services are coordinated through the Department of Public Works and, in some cases, the Glenview Park District, with finished mulch available for residents during peak spring and fall seasons. All brush must be separated from leaves and free of contaminants, in accordance with the Illinois Environmental Protection Act (415 ILCS 5). Street and storm drain disposal is strictly prohibited to protect the Lake Michigan watershed, and violations may result in penalties. For more information or to schedule services, contact:

Glenview Department of Public Works
2500 East Lake Avenue, Glenview, IL 60026
Phone: (847) 724-1700
Official Website: Public Works Department

Glenview Fire Department Coordination for Open Burning Permits & Safety Requirements

Open burning of brush in Glenview is highly regulated, with many Chicago-area municipalities, including Glenview, prohibiting or strictly limiting open burning due to air quality and public safety concerns. Where permitted, daily open burning permits must be obtained from the Fire Department, and all activities must comply with Cook County and Illinois EPA air quality standards. Safety requirements include minimum setback distances from structures (typically 50-150 feet), constant supervision, and immediate access to water or fire extinguishers. Burning of leaves, treated wood, or plastics is strictly forbidden. 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. For defensible space and emergency vehicle access, vegetation management around structures is encouraged. For permit information and fire safety guidance, contact:

Glenview Fire Department
1215 Waukegan Road, Glenview, IL 60025
Phone: (847) 724-2141
Official Website: Fire Department

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

Glenview’s brush removal efforts must address several invasive species common to the Chicago area, including:

• Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica, Frangula alnus): Dominant understory invasive
• Bush Honeysuckles (Lonicera spp.): Dense thickets
• Multiflora Rose (Rosa multiflora): Thorny, impenetrable barriers
• Autumn Olive (Elaeagnus umbellata): Alters soil chemistry

Specialized disposal protocols are required: invasive brush with viable seeds must be bagged and sent to landfill, never composted or chipped 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 species (oak, serviceberry, viburnum) is encouraged, in partnership with Cook County Forest Preserve District and local conservation groups.

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

Brush removal near wetlands, streams, or protected areas in Glenview requires coordination with the Environmental Commission and compliance with local buffer zone ordinances (typically 10-25 feet). Permits may be required for work within these sensitive areas. Wildlife protection is critical, with mandatory nesting bird surveys during the April-August breeding season and visual inspections for active dens or bat roosts. Erosion control is essential on slopes, especially in Glenview’s heavy clay soils, using silt fencing or erosion control blankets. Selective removal techniques should preserve beneficial habitat features and support ecological restoration goals. For environmental compliance and permit guidance, contact:

Environment & Natural Resources Commission
2500 East Lake Avenue, Glenview, IL 60026
Phone: (847) 904-4300
Official Website: Environment & Natural Resources Commission

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

Professional brush removal in Glenview requires adherence to strict safety and certification standards. Complex removals should be performed by ISA Certified Arborists, and all equipment operators must be trained and certified for machinery 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 utility safety and professional standards, contact:

Glenview Community Development Department
2500 East Lake Avenue, Glenview, IL 60026
Phone: (847) 904-4309
Official Website: Community Development Department

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

Optimal timing for brush removal in Glenview’s Zone 5a-6a climate is during the winter months (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. Work should be avoided from May through August to protect nesting birds and during periods of saturated soils. Weather coordination is essential—operations should be suspended during high winds (over 20-25 mph), heavy precipitation, or red flag fire warnings, as advised by the National Weather Service Chicago. Wildlife surveys are required before removal during breeding season, and all activities should be documented for compliance.

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

After brush removal, immediate site stabilization is required to protect the Lake Michigan watershed under Glenview’s MS4 permit and the Clean Water Act. Erosion control measures, such as mulching and silt fencing, are critical for exposed clay soils. Restoration should prioritize native Illinois species adapted to local conditions, with soil amendments as needed for compacted areas. Construction phase protection includes proper equipment staging and daily cleanup to prevent debris migration. Long-term management involves monitoring for invasive regrowth (especially buckthorn), maintenance of restored areas, and, if necessary, licensed herbicide application in accordance with Illinois Department of Agriculture - Pesticide Regulations. For stormwater compliance, consult:

Glenview Department of Public Works
2500 East Lake Avenue, Glenview, IL 60026
Phone: (847) 724-1700
Official Website: Public Works Department

Storm Debris Management & Emergency Response Coordination with Glenview

Severe weather events in the Chicago area often result in significant storm debris. Glenview coordinates emergency brush collection through public communications, with extended yard waste hours or temporary drop-off sites as needed. Residents must separate organic brush from construction debris and avoid blocking streets or sidewalks. Priority is given to clearing emergency routes, with coordination among Public Works, Police, and Fire Departments. For major disasters, FEMA documentation and temporary debris storage sites may be established. Safety protocols include utility coordination for downed power lines and traffic control during cleanup. For emergency response information, contact:

Glenview Police Department
2500 East Lake Avenue, Glenview, IL 60026
Phone: (847) 729-5000
Official Website: Police Department

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Glenview, IL?

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

• The Glen: Newer development, less invasive pressure, HOA landscaping standards
• East Glenview: Mature neighborhoods, dense buckthorn and honeysuckle, overhead utilities, narrow streets
• West Glenview: Proximity to forest preserves, higher wildlife habitat value, clay soils with seasonal water table fluctuations
• Northfield Woods: Adjacent to Cook County Forest Preserve District, sensitive wetland buffers, fire risk during drought
• Swainwood: Established tree canopy, limited equipment access, high property value restoration expectations
• South Glenview: Mix of older and newer homes, moderate invasive pressure, accessible collection routes
• Indian Ridge: Planned community, conservation easements, HOA requirements, stormwater management focus Each area requires tailored disposal logistics, environmental sensitivity, and compliance with municipal programs.

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

Glenview enforces strict ordinances 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 restrictions should be verified with the municipality. Commercial contractors must maintain current licensing, comprehensive liability insurance, and workers’ compensation coverage. Public safety is paramount, with requirements for traffic control and emergency vehicle access during operations. Code Enforcement oversees compliance, issuing notices of violation and citations for non-compliance. For ordinance details and enforcement procedures, contact:

Glenview Community Development Department
2500 East Lake Avenue, Glenview, IL 60026
Phone: (847) 904-4309
Official Website: Community Development Department