Homer Glen Brush Removal Services

Our Brush Removal Process

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

Homer Glen offers comprehensive brush disposal options 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 programs are coordinated through the Department of Public Works, with finished mulch often available for residents at local composting facilities. For more information, contact:

Homer Glen Department of Public Works
14240 W 151st St, Homer Glen, IL 60491
Phone: (708) 301-0632
Official Website: Homer Glen Department of Public Works

Homer Glen Fire Department Coordination for Open Burning Permits & Safety Requirements

Open burning of brush in Homer Glen is subject to strict regulations, with many Chicago suburban municipalities prohibiting or severely limiting this practice due to air quality and fire safety concerns. Where permitted, daily open burning permits are required, and burning is only allowed during designated seasonal windows. Safety requirements include maintaining minimum setbacks from structures (often 50-150 feet), constant supervision, and having a water source or fire extinguisher on hand. Burning of leaves, treated wood, or plastics is prohibited. Residents must monitor fire weather conditions, including red flag warnings from the National Weather Service Chicago, and comply with county-level bans in Will County. For permit information, contact:

Homer Glen Fire Department
16050 S. Cedar Rd, Homer Glen, IL 60491
Phone: (708) 301-1591
Official Website: Homer Glen Fire Department

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

Homer Glen’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)

Proper disposal is critical: 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—like serviceberry, viburnum, and prairie grasses—supports local ecosystems and aligns with regional conservation goals. Coordination with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and local forest preserve districts is recommended for best practices.

Homer Glen Environmental Commission Requirements for Brush Removal Near Wetlands & Protected Areas

Brush removal near wetlands, streams, or protected areas in Homer Glen requires coordination with the Environmental Commission to ensure compliance with buffer zone regulations (typically 10-25 feet). Permits may be required, especially in areas with conservation easements or sensitive habitats. Wildlife protection is essential during the April-August breeding season, necessitating surveys for nesting birds and active dens. Erosion control is critical on slopes and heavy clay soils, using silt fencing or erosion control blankets to prevent sediment runoff. Selective removal techniques help preserve beneficial habitat features and support ecological restoration. For guidance, contact:

Homer Glen Environment Committee
14240 W 151st St, Homer Glen, IL 60491
Phone: (708) 301-0632
Official Website: Homer Glen Environment Committee

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

Professional brush removal in Homer Glen requires adherence to strict safety and certification standards. ISA Certified Arborists are recommended for complex removals, and all operators must be trained in 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. Liability insurance (minimum $1 million per occurrence), workers’ compensation, and bonding are required for commercial contractors. For utility locating, visit JULIE 811 - Call Before You Dig.

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

Optimal brush removal timing in Homer Glen’s Zone 5a-6a climate is during winter (December-March) when the ground is frozen, minimizing soil compaction and wildlife disturbance. Early spring (March-April) is also suitable before nesting season begins, while late fall (October-November) is ideal after breeding season ends. Work should be avoided during May-August to protect nesting birds and during wet conditions to prevent severe rutting in clay soils. Weather coordination is essential—operations should be suspended during high winds, heavy precipitation, or red flag fire warnings. Consult National Weather Service Chicago for up-to-date forecasts and fire weather alerts.

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

After brush removal, immediate site restoration is required to comply with Homer Glen’s MS4 permit under the Clean Water Act and protect the Lake Michigan watershed. Erosion control measures—such as mulching, silt fencing, and erosion control blankets—are critical for exposed clay soils. Native species reestablishment using Illinois-adapted plants supports long-term ecosystem health. Construction phase protection includes proper equipment staging, daily cleanup, and containment of debris. 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 water quality guidance, see Illinois EPA Water Quality & Watershed Management.

Storm Debris Management & Emergency Response Coordination with Homer Glen

Severe weather events in the Chicago area often result in significant storm debris. Homer Glen coordinates emergency brush collection through public communications, with priority given to emergency vehicle routes and major thoroughfares. Residents must separate organic brush from construction debris and follow municipal instructions for curb placement. Temporary drop-off sites may be established, and extended collection hours are common after major storms. For federally declared disasters, FEMA documentation and temporary debris storage protocols apply. Emergency safety measures include utility coordination (ComEd for power lines), traffic control by the Police Department, and worker safety protocols for hazardous conditions. For police coordination, contact:

Homer Glen Police Department
14240 W 151st St, Homer Glen, IL 60491
Phone: (708) 301-1212
Official Website: Homer Glen Police Department

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Homer Glen, IL?

Homer Glen encompasses diverse neighborhoods, each with unique brush management needs:

• Old Oak Estates: Mature woodlands, high buckthorn pressure, overhead utilities, narrow streets
• Erin Hills: Newer development, less invasive density, HOA landscaping standards, good equipment access
• Woodbine: Adjacent to forest preserve, sensitive wetland buffers, high wildlife value, clay soil drainage issues
• Hidden Valley: Rolling topography, slope erosion risks, mixed native and invasive brush, limited alley access
• Stonebridge Woods: Planned community, deed restrictions, manicured landscapes, curbside collection
• Messenger Woods: Forest preserve proximity, protected species habitat, fire risk during drought, storm debris challenges
• Goodings Grove: Established suburb, moderate invasive pressure, utility corridors, accessible drop-off sites Each area requires tailored disposal logistics, environmental sensitivity, and compliance with municipal and HOA requirements.

Homer Glen Municipal Ordinances for Brush Removal Equipment Operation & Commercial Service Standards

Homer Glen enforces municipal ordinances governing brush removal equipment operation and commercial service standards. Equipment operation is typically allowed from 7 AM to 9 PM on weekdays and 8 AM to 9 PM on Saturdays, with Sunday restrictions varying—always verify current local codes. Commercial contractors must maintain proper licensing, comprehensive insurance, and bonding. Public safety is prioritized through traffic control measures and emergency access requirements. Enforcement is managed by Code Enforcement, with penalties for violations such as illegal dumping, noise infractions, or unpermitted work. For ordinance details, contact:

Homer Glen Code Enforcement
14240 W 151st St, Homer Glen, IL 60491
Phone: (708) 301-0632
Official Website: Homer Glen Code Enforcement

By following these municipal guidelines, environmental regulations, and professional standards, Homer Glen residents and contractors can ensure safe, compliant, and ecologically responsible brush removal that protects the community, local ecosystems, and the Lake Michigan watershed.