Glen Ellyn Brush Removal Services

Our Brush Removal Process

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

Glen Ellyn residents must follow strict municipal brush disposal guidelines to ensure environmental compliance and efficient collection. Brush must be bundled in lengths no longer than 4 feet, with each bundle weighing under 50 pounds and tied securely with biodegradable twine—plastic is strictly prohibited. Yard waste drop-off sites are available during posted hours, and residents may need a permit or sticker for access. Commercial contractors bringing bulk brush loads must adhere to fee structures and registration requirements. Municipal chipping services are coordinated seasonally, often in spring and fall, and finished mulch may be available for residents. All brush disposal must comply with the Illinois Environmental Protection Act (415 ILCS 5), which prohibits brush in household trash and mandates the use of biodegradable paper bags or rigid containers. Never place brush in the street or near storm drains, as this can impact the Lake Michigan watershed and result in penalties. For more information, contact: Glen Ellyn Department of Public Works
535 Duane Street, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
Phone: (630) 469-6756
Official Website: Public Works Department

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

Open burning of brush in Glen Ellyn is highly regulated, with many Chicago suburbs—including Glen Ellyn—prohibiting or strictly limiting open burning due to air quality and safety concerns. Where burning is permitted, residents must obtain a daily permit, adhere to seasonal restrictions, and follow safety protocols such as maintaining minimum setbacks from structures (typically 50-150 feet), constant supervision, and having a water source or fire extinguisher on hand. Burning of leaves, construction debris, or treated wood is strictly prohibited. Fire weather conditions are monitored in coordination with the National Weather Service Chicago, and burning is not allowed during red flag warnings or county-wide bans (DuPage County regulations apply). Creating defensible space around structures and maintaining emergency vehicle access are essential for fire safety. For permit information and current regulations, contact: Glen Ellyn Fire Department
524 Pennsylvania Avenue, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
Phone: (630) 469-5265
Official Website: Fire and Emergency Medical Services

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

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

• Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica, Frangula alnus): Dominant understory invasive, requires removal before fruit set (June-September)
• Bush Honeysuckles (Lonicera spp.): Dense thickets, bag berries to prevent spread
• Multiflora Rose (Rosa multiflora): Thorny, impenetrable barriers
• Autumn Olive (Elaeagnus umbellata): Alters soil chemistry, nitrogen-fixing Specialized disposal protocols require bagging all fruiting material and transporting invasive brush to 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 species (oak, serviceberry, viburnum) supports local ecosystems and should be coordinated with local conservation groups and forest preserve districts.

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

Brush removal near wetlands, streams, or protected areas in Glen Ellyn is subject to oversight by the Environmental Commission. Permits may be required for work within 10-25 feet of sensitive habitats, and all activities must comply with local and state environmental regulations. Erosion control is critical on slopes and heavy clay soils, with silt fencing or erosion blankets required to prevent sediment runoff. Wildlife protection is mandatory during the April-August breeding season, including surveys for nesting birds, bat roosts, and mammal dens. Selective removal techniques should preserve beneficial habitat features, and brush piles may be strategically created for wildlife shelter. For guidance and permit requirements, contact: Glen Ellyn Environmental Commission
535 Duane Street, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
Phone: (630) 469-5000
Official Website: Environmental Commission

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

Professional brush removal in Glen Ellyn requires adherence to strict safety and certification standards. Complex removals should be performed by ISA Certified Arborists, and all operators must be trained in equipment safety (chainsaws, chippers, brush hogs) and wear comprehensive PPE (chainsaw chaps, gloves, eye and hearing protection, 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. Maintain minimum approach distances to overhead power lines (10 feet for up to 50kV). Contractors must carry commercial general liability insurance (minimum $1M per occurrence), workers’ compensation, and bonding for municipal work. Proof of JULIE compliance is required for all projects. For utility locating, visit JULIE 811 - Call Before You Dig.

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

Optimal brush removal timing in Glen Ellyn’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, while late fall (October-November) is ideal after breeding season ends. Avoid removal during May-August to protect nesting birds and other wildlife. Monitor weather conditions using National Weather Service Chicago forecasts—avoid work during high winds (over 20-25 mph) or saturated soils to prevent equipment damage and soil erosion. Fire weather awareness is essential, especially during droughts or red flag warnings. Always conduct wildlife surveys before work during sensitive periods.

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

After brush removal, immediate site restoration is required to protect the Lake Michigan watershed under Glen Ellyn’s MS4 permit and the Clean Water Act. Erosion control measures such as mulching, silt fencing, and erosion control blankets are critical for exposed clay soils. Reestablish native vegetation using Illinois-adapted species to stabilize soil and support local ecosystems. Construction phase protection includes proper equipment staging, daily cleanup, and containment of debris to prevent migration into storm drains. Long-term management involves monitoring for invasive regrowth (buckthorn and honeysuckle resprout vigorously), maintenance of restored areas, and, if necessary, licensed herbicide application in compliance with Illinois Department of Agriculture - Pesticide Regulations. For stormwater compliance, consult Illinois EPA Water Quality & Watershed Management.

Storm Debris Management & Emergency Response Coordination with Glen Ellyn

Severe weather events in the Chicago area often result in significant storm debris. Glen Ellyn 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 place materials at the curb without blocking streets or sidewalks. 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 established. Utility companies (ComEd, Nicor) are contacted for power line clearance. For emergency response, contact: Glen Ellyn Police Department
65 S Park Boulevard, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
Phone: (630) 469-1187
Official Website: Police Department

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Glen Ellyn, IL?

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

• Historic Downtown: Mature tree canopy, high buckthorn pressure, narrow streets limit equipment access
• Lake Ellyn Area: Proximity to wetlands and forest preserves, sensitive habitats require permit coordination
• South Glen Ellyn: Newer developments, less invasive pressure, HOA landscaping standards
• North Glen Ellyn: Clay soils, drainage challenges, utility density with overhead lines
• East Glen Ellyn: Adjacent to DuPage County Forest Preserve, fire risk higher during drought, conservation easements common
• College of DuPage Vicinity: Open spaces, prairie restoration, seasonal water table fluctuations
• Park District Properties: Managed in coordination with Glen Ellyn Park District, public access, and event scheduling Disposal logistics vary by area, with some neighborhoods relying on curbside pickup and others utilizing drop-off sites or municipal chipping services. Environmental sensitivities, property values, and community standards influence restoration expectations and management practices.

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

Glen Ellyn enforces strict ordinances governing brush removal operations. Equipment may only be operated during designated hours (typically 7 AM-9 PM weekdays, 8 AM-9 PM Saturdays; verify Sunday restrictions). Commercial contractors must be licensed, insured, and bonded, with comprehensive liability coverage and workers’ compensation. Public safety is paramount—traffic control measures are required for work near roadways, and emergency vehicle access must be maintained at all times. Code Enforcement investigates complaints and enforces compliance, with citations issued for violations. For ordinance details and complaint procedures, contact: Glen Ellyn Community Development Department
535 Duane Street, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
Phone: (630) 547-5250
Official Website: Community Development Department