Glenview Tree Removal Services

Our Tree Removal Process

Contact Glenview's Department of Public Works for Tree Permits & Municipal Oversight

Tree removal in Glenview is governed by a robust municipal framework designed to protect the community’s urban forest and ensure public safety. The Glenview Department of Public Works (DPW) oversees all tree removal activities on public property and within parkways, requiring permits for the removal of trees with a diameter at breast height (DBH) of 6 inches or greater for protected species, and 8 inches or more for public trees. Permit applications must be submitted 7-14 days in advance, with site inspections and written determinations provided. Emergency removals for hazardous trees are authorized through expedited protocols. Public notification and, for significant removals, public hearings may be required. The DPW also coordinates with municipal forestry programs, manages storm response, and enforces compliance through penalties and bond obligations. For detailed permit procedures and municipal oversight, contact:

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

Understanding Tree Health Assessment & Professional Certification Requirements in Glenview

Glenview mandates that all tree health assessments and risk evaluations be conducted by International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborists. These professionals utilize formal risk rating systems (low to extreme) and must document findings regarding structural integrity, disease, pest infestation, and proximity hazards. Additional credentials such as the Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ) and Illinois arborist licensing are required for formal assessments and removal supervision. For chemical treatments, a commercial pesticide applicator license is necessary, and crane operators must be certified for large removals. Common local species include oaks, maples, ash, elm, and hackberry, with threats from emerald ash borer, oak wilt, and Dutch elm disease. Before removal, alternatives such as structural pruning, cabling, soil improvement, and integrated pest management should be considered. Liability insurance and professional documentation are essential for all certified arborists operating in Glenview.

Illinois Environmental Protection Agency Requirements for Tree Removal & Water Quality Protection

Tree removal in Glenview must comply with Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations to protect water quality and sensitive habitats. Coordination with watershed protection programs is required to prevent debris and sediment from entering streams, rivers, and wetlands. Erosion control measures, such as sediment barriers and immediate site stabilization, are mandatory during and after removal, especially on slopes or near water bodies. Nesting bird surveys (March–August) and bat habitat assessments are required for large or cavity trees, in compliance with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Stormwater management must align with Glenview’s MS4 permit and EPA NPDES requirements, using best practices from the Illinois Urban Manual. Invasive species, such as buckthorn and emerald ash borer-infested material, must be disposed of according to state quarantine and disposal protocols. For further guidance, consult the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 5.

Municipal Tree Protection Ordinances & Public Tree Management in Glenview

Glenview enforces specific tree protection ordinances that require permits for removing trees above established DBH thresholds on both private and public property. Heritage or landmark trees, identified by species and size, are subject to additional protections and may require public hearings for removal. Permit applications must include detailed documentation and are reviewed by the DPW, with coordination from the Building and Planning Departments for projects affecting structures or land use. Enforcement includes violation reporting, citations, stop-work orders, and correction timelines. Contractors must carry commercial general liability insurance (minimum $1 million), workers’ compensation, and property damage coverage. The village maintains a public tree inventory, conducts systematic inspections, and implements proactive hazard identification and community planting programs as part of its Urban Forest Management Plan. For planning and permit assistance, contact:

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

Safety Regulations & Utility Coordination for Tree Removal Operations in Glenview

Safety is paramount in all tree removal operations in Glenview, with oversight from the Building Department for projects near structures. Compliance with OSHA standards (29 CFR 1910.266, 1926 Subpart R) is required, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), certified rigging and climbing practices, and aerial lift safety. Utility coordination is essential: advance notification to electric, gas, water, and telecommunications providers is required, and JULIE (811) must be contacted at least 48 hours before root zone excavation. Clearance protocols for overhead lines and qualified line clearance arborist certification are mandatory for utility proximity work. Public safety measures include street closure permits, traffic control plans, barricades, and coordination with the Glenview Police Department. Contractors must maintain insurance coverage of at least $1 million in general liability and workers’ compensation for all employees. For building permit and safety protocol information, contact:

Glenview Building Department
2500 East Lake Avenue, Glenview, IL 60026
Phone: (847) 904-4300
Official Website: Development Center / Building Division

Proper Tree Debris Disposal Through Glenview's Municipal Programs & Illinois Waste Requirements

Glenview supports Illinois’s organic waste diversion goals by prohibiting tree debris in household trash and promoting municipal composting and wood waste programs. Residents and contractors must use designated composting facilities or transfer sites, adhering to permit requirements, fee structures, and material specifications (logs, brush, stumps). Seasonal brush pickup is available, with size and placement restrictions, and special collections are organized after storms. Wood waste diversion options include municipal chipping programs, sawmill partnerships for valuable species, firewood processing, and biomass facility coordination. Storm debris management follows FEMA guidelines, requiring separation of vegetative and construction debris and coordination with regional mutual aid programs. For details on debris disposal and collection schedules, contact:

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

Protecting Glenview's Urban Forest Through Replacement Requirements & Community Stewardship

Glenview’s tree replacement requirements mandate the use of native or climate-adapted species, with minimum size specifications (typically 2–3 inch caliper) and adherence to planting location and spacing standards. Replacement trees must be cared for according to establishment protocols, and in-lieu fees may apply if on-site planting is not feasible. The village aims for 30–40% urban canopy coverage and promotes species diversity to enhance climate resilience. Community involvement is encouraged through volunteer planting programs, Arbor Day events, educational workshops, and citizen science initiatives. Preservation alternatives include health maintenance, structural support for heritage trees, integrated pest management, and root zone protection during construction. Long-term planning integrates succession strategies and green infrastructure. For community forestry programs and stewardship opportunities, contact:

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

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Glenview, IL?

Glenview’s neighborhoods each present unique tree removal challenges and regulatory considerations:

• The Glen: Features a mix of young and mature trees, with strict HOA guidelines, architectural review, and proximity to commercial districts requiring careful permit coordination and traffic control.
• Swainwood: Home to many heritage oaks and elms, with narrow streets and mature landscaping limiting equipment access; historic district status may require public hearings and additional review.
• East Glenview: Contains flood-prone areas and proximity to the West Fork of the North Branch Chicago River, necessitating erosion control, MS4 compliance, and habitat protection for rare species.
• Westfield: Predominantly residential with overhead utility conflicts, parking restrictions, and seasonal occupancy patterns; emerald ash borer management is a priority.
• Indian Ridge: Features steep slopes and wetland buffers, requiring advanced erosion control, stormwater management, and coordination with the Soil and Water Conservation District.
• Park Manor: Dense tree canopy with invasive species concentrations, limited alley access, and high community engagement in tree preservation and replacement programs.
• Willowbrook: Business district impacts, multi-story building considerations, and crane operation requirements for removals near commercial properties; coordination with municipal right-of-way permits is essential.

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

Glenview’s municipal ordinances regulate tree removal equipment operation to minimize community disruption and ensure safety. Permitted operating hours are typically 7:00 AM–8:00 PM on weekdays and 9:00 AM–6:00 PM on weekends, with noise restrictions enforced according to decibel limits and residential area sensitivities. Commercial tree service providers must obtain a business license, register as contractors with the municipality, and maintain insurance (minimum $1 million general liability, workers’ compensation, property damage). Bonding is required for municipal contract work, and arborist certification must be verified. Safety protocols include traffic control, proper equipment operation, OSHA compliance, and public notification. Environmental compliance mandates proper material handling, debris containment, vehicle maintenance, and immediate site cleanup, with documentation required for all waste disposal. Coordination with Illinois Environmental Protection Agency and local ordinances ensures stormwater protection and erosion control throughout all operations.