Homer Glen Tree Removal Services

Our Tree Removal Process

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

Tree removal in Homer Glen is governed by a robust municipal framework designed to protect the community's urban forest and ensure public safety. The Homer Glen Department of Public Works (DPW) oversees all tree removal activities within public rights-of-way and on municipal property. Permits are required for removing any tree with a diameter at breast height (DBH) of 6 inches or greater for protected species, or 8 inches or greater on public property. 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 hearings may be required for significant removals, especially for heritage or landmark trees. The DPW also coordinates with municipal forestry programs, manages public notifications, and enforces compliance through penalties and bond requirements. For detailed permit procedures and municipal oversight, 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

Understanding Tree Health Assessment & Professional Certification Requirements in Homer Glen

Homer Glen mandates that all tree health assessments and risk evaluations be conducted by International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborists. These professionals utilize standardized protocols, including the Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ), to evaluate structural integrity, disease presence, pest infestations, and proximity risks. Common local species such as oaks, maples, ash, and elms are susceptible to threats like emerald ash borer, oak wilt, and Dutch elm disease. Arborists must document findings and recommend alternatives to removal, such as structural pruning, cabling, or integrated pest management. Certification requirements include:

• ISA Certified Arborist credentials
• TRAQ for formal risk assessments
• Illinois arborist licensing (where required)
• Commercial pesticide applicator licenses (if chemical treatments are used)
• Crane operator certification for large removals

Professional liability insurance and ongoing education are also required to maintain high standards of care and public safety.

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

Tree removal operations in Homer Glen must comply with Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations to protect water quality and sensitive habitats. Coordination with watershed protection programs is essential to prevent debris and sediment from entering streams, rivers, and wetlands. Erosion control measures, such as sediment barriers and immediate site stabilization, are required during and after removal, especially on slopes or near water bodies. Habitat protection includes mandatory nesting bird surveys (March-August) and bat habitat assessments for large cavity trees, in consultation with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Compliance with the Clean Water Act and EPA NPDES stormwater permits is required, as is proper disposal of invasive species and pest-infested material. For regional guidance, consult U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 5.

Municipal Tree Protection Ordinances & Public Tree Management in Homer Glen

Homer Glen enforces specific tree protection ordinances that set permit thresholds for both private and public property. Heritage or landmark trees, often defined by species and DBH, require special documentation and may trigger public hearings. Permit applications must include site plans, species identification, and health assessments. The review process involves coordination with the Building and Planning Departments, utility companies, and emergency response teams. Enforcement includes:

• Violation reporting and complaint procedures
• Citation and penalty structures for unpermitted removals
• Stop-work orders and correction timelines
• Appeal and variance processes

Professional liability standards require contractors to carry at least $1 million in general liability insurance, workers' compensation, and property damage coverage. Public tree management is supported by municipal tree inventories, GIS mapping, systematic inspections, and proactive hazard identification. Community tree planting and urban forest master planning are integral to long-term stewardship.

Safety Regulations & Utility Coordination for Tree Removal Operations in Homer Glen

Safety is paramount in all tree removal operations, with oversight from the Homer Glen Building Department for projects affecting structures. Compliance with OSHA standards (29 CFR 1910.266, 1926 Subpart R) is mandatory, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), rigging and climbing certifications, and aerial lift safety. Utility coordination requires advance notification to electric, gas, water, and telecommunications providers, with JULIE (811) notification at least 48 hours before root zone excavation. Clearance protocols for overhead lines and qualified line clearance arborist certification are required for work near utilities. Public safety measures include:

• Street closure permits and traffic control plans
• Barricade and signage requirements
• Pedestrian protection
• Emergency response procedures

Insurance requirements include a minimum of $1 million in general liability, workers' compensation, and property damage coverage. For more information, contact:

Homer Glen Building Department
14240 W 151st St, Homer Glen, IL 60491
Phone: (708) 301-1301
Official Website: Homer Glen Building Department

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

Homer Glen supports Illinois' organic waste diversion goals by prohibiting tree debris in household trash and promoting municipal composting and wood waste programs. Residents and contractors must utilize designated composting facilities or transfer sites, adhering to permit requirements, fee structures, and material specifications (logs, brush, stumps). Municipal collection services offer seasonal brush pickup (typically 4-foot lengths, 50-pound bundles), curbside placement, and special storm debris collection. Wood waste diversion options include:

• Municipal chipping and mulch programs
• Sawmill coordination for valuable species
• Firewood processing and distribution
• Biomass facility partnerships

Storm debris management involves emergency collection, FEMA coordination, and debris separation protocols. Compliance with Illinois EPA waste reduction initiatives is required for all disposal activities.

Protecting Homer Glen's Urban Forest Through Replacement Requirements & Community Stewardship

Tree replacement is a cornerstone of Homer Glen's urban forest management. Replacement requirements specify native or climate-adapted species, minimum caliper sizes (typically 2-3 inches), and proper planting locations. Establishment care protocols and survival guarantees ensure long-term success. In-lieu fees may be assessed when on-site planting is not feasible. Urban forest goals include:

• Achieving 30-40% canopy coverage
• Promoting species diversity (no more than 10% single species)
• Climate resilience and sustainability integration

Community involvement is encouraged through volunteer planting programs, Arbor Day events, and educational workshops. Preservation alternatives, such as health maintenance, structural support, and integrated pest management, are promoted to extend the life of heritage trees. Long-term planning addresses succession, climate adaptation, and integration with green infrastructure.

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Homer Glen, IL?

Homer Glen encompasses diverse neighborhoods, each with unique tree removal challenges:

• Old Oak Estates: Mature oaks and maples, heritage tree protections, high emerald ash borer pressure, narrow streets requiring specialized equipment, and strict HOA approval processes.
• Evlyn's Gate: Newer developments with young tree populations, invasive species management needs, and MS4 stormwater compliance due to proximity to wetlands.
• Goodings Grove: Mix of mature and young trees, frequent storm damage, overhead utility conflicts, and public hearing requirements for removals near historic sites.
• Stonebridge Woods: High-value properties with aesthetic standards, deed restrictions, and complex access logistics for large equipment.
• Hidden Valley Estates: Steep slopes and flood-prone areas, erosion control measures, and rare species habitat considerations.
• Kingston Hills: Dense residential layout, parking restrictions, and traffic control needs for arterial streets.
• Woodbine: Proximity to forest preserves, invasive buckthorn concentrations, and coordination with municipal forestry programs.

Each area requires tailored regulatory compliance, infrastructure planning, and community engagement to ensure safe and responsible tree removal.

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

Homer Glen regulates tree removal equipment operation to minimize community disruption and ensure safety. Permitted operating hours are typically 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM on weekdays and 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM on weekends, with noise restrictions enforced by municipal ordinance. Commercial service providers must obtain a business license, register with the municipality, and provide proof of insurance (minimum $1 million liability, workers' compensation, property damage). Bonding is required for municipal contract work, and arborist certification must be verified. Safety protocols include:

• Traffic control and work zone setup
• OSHA-compliant equipment operation
• Pedestrian safety and public notification
• Right-of-way permit coordination
• Emergency response and property damage documentation

Environmental compliance standards require proper material handling, immediate cleanup, vehicle maintenance, and adherence to Illinois EPA and local environmental ordinances, including stormwater and erosion control measures. For planning and zoning guidance, contact:

Homer Glen Planning Department
14240 W 151st St, Homer Glen, IL 60491
Phone: (708) 301-0632
Official Website: Homer Glen Planning and Zoning Commission

For community development initiatives and further regulatory information, contact:

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