Glen Ellyn Tree Removal Services

Our Tree Removal Process

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

Tree removal within Glen Ellyn is governed by a robust municipal framework designed to protect the community’s urban forest and ensure public safety. The Village’s tree protection ordinance requires permits for the removal of any public tree or protected species exceeding 6-8 inches in diameter at breast height (DBH), with stricter thresholds for heritage or landmark trees. Applications must be submitted to the Department of Public Works, which oversees permit review, site inspections, and public notification. Emergency removals due to hazardous conditions are subject to expedited protocols, while significant removals may require public hearings and advance notice of 7-14 days. The Department also coordinates with municipal forestry programs, manages parkway tree protections, and enforces compliance through written determinations, bond obligations, and penalty structures. For detailed guidance or to initiate a permit application, contact:

Glen Ellyn Department of Public Works
535 Duane Street, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
Phone: (630) 469-6756
Official Website: Public Works Department

Understanding Tree Health Assessment & Professional Certification Requirements in Glen Ellyn

Glen Ellyn mandates that tree health assessments and risk evaluations be conducted by International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborists, ensuring professional standards and public safety. Arborists must hold current ISA credentials, and for formal risk assessments, the Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ) is required. Additional certifications may include Illinois arborist licensing, commercial pesticide applicator licenses for chemical treatments, and crane operator certifications for large removals. Comprehensive evaluations address structural integrity (decay, cavities, cracks), disease and pest identification (notably emerald ash borer, oak wilt, Dutch elm disease), storm damage, and proximity risks. Before removal, alternative treatments such as structural pruning, cabling, soil improvement, and integrated pest management are considered. Professional documentation and liability insurance (minimum $1 million coverage) are required for all assessment and removal activities.

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

Tree removal in Glen Ellyn must comply with Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations to safeguard water quality and local 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. Nesting bird surveys (March–August) and bat habitat assessments are mandated for large or cavity trees, in accordance with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Stormwater management must align with Glen Ellyn’s MS4 permit and Illinois Urban Manual best practices. Invasive species, such as buckthorn and emerald ash borer-infested material, require special disposal and may be subject to quarantine. For more information, visit the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 5.

Municipal Tree Protection Ordinances & Public Tree Management in Glen Ellyn

Glen Ellyn’s tree protection regulations establish clear permit thresholds for both private and public property, with special designations for heritage or landmark trees based on diameter and species. Permit applications require detailed documentation and are reviewed by the Department of Public Works, often in coordination with the Planning and Community Development Departments for projects affecting structures or significant site alterations. Utility companies are notified for line clearance, and emergency protocols are in place for storm damage. Enforcement includes violation reporting, citation issuance, stop-work orders, and defined correction timelines. Professional liability standards require contractors to maintain general liability, workers’ compensation, and property damage insurance, as well as municipal bonding for public contracts. Public tree management is supported by a municipal inventory, systematic inspections, hazard identification, and community planting initiatives. For planning and regulatory questions, contact:

Glen Ellyn Planning Department
535 Duane Street, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
Phone: (630) 547-5250
Official Website: Planning Division

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

Safety is paramount in all tree removal operations, with oversight from the Glen Ellyn Building Department for projects affecting structures. Compliance with OSHA standards (29 CFR 1910.266, 1926 Subpart R) is required, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), rigging and climbing certifications, aerial lift safety, and fall protection systems. Utility coordination involves advance notification to electric, gas, water, and telecommunications providers, with JULIE (811) notification required at least 48 hours before root zone excavation. Clearance protocols mandate a minimum 10-foot distance from overhead power lines, and only qualified line clearance arborists may work near utilities. Public safety measures include street closure permits, barricades, signage, pedestrian protection, and coordination with the Glen Ellyn Police Department for traffic management. Contractors must carry at least $1 million in general liability insurance. For permit and safety inquiries, contact:

Glen Ellyn Building Department
535 Duane Street, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
Phone: (630) 547-5250
Official Website: Building Division

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

Glen Ellyn 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 follow local procedures for debris disposal, including:

• Utilizing the Village’s composting facility or transfer site (check for operating hours, permit requirements, and accepted materials)
• Adhering to seasonal brush pickup schedules (typically 4-foot lengths, 50-pound bundles)
• Scheduling curbside placement and special storm debris collections
• Participating in municipal chipping programs and mulch distribution
• Coordinating with sawmills for valuable wood species and firewood processing
• Following FEMA and regional mutual aid protocols for large-scale storm events

Proper separation of vegetative and construction debris is required, and all disposal must comply with Illinois EPA waste reduction initiatives.

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

Tree replacement is a cornerstone of Glen Ellyn’s urban forest management, with requirements specifying native or climate-adapted species, minimum caliper sizes (typically 2-3 inches), and proper planting locations. The Village aims for 30-40% canopy coverage and promotes species diversity (no more than 10% of a single species, 20% of a single genus) to enhance resilience. Community involvement is encouraged through volunteer planting programs, Arbor Day events, educational workshops, and citizen science initiatives. Preservation alternatives, such as fertilization, soil improvement, cabling, and integrated pest management, are promoted for heritage trees. Long-term planning addresses succession for aging populations, climate adaptation, and integration with green infrastructure and walkability initiatives. For community forestry programs, contact:

Glen Ellyn Community Development Department
535 Duane Street, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
Phone: (630) 547-5250
Official Website: Community Development Department

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Glen Ellyn, IL?

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

• Downtown Glen Ellyn: Features mature oaks and maples, historic district review requirements, narrow streets, and high pedestrian traffic. Removal often requires architectural review, traffic control, and coordination with business owners.
• Lake Ellyn Area: Contains heritage trees, proximity to Lake Ellyn and wetlands, and steep slopes needing erosion control. MS4 stormwater compliance and rare species habitat protection are priorities.
• Arboretum Estates: Characterized by large lots, diverse species, and invasive buckthorn concentrations. HOA approval and deed restrictions may apply, with access limitations for large equipment.
• Glen Ellyn Manor: Predominantly ash and elm, high emerald ash borer pressure, and frequent storm damage. Utility conflicts and parking restrictions are common.
• Ben Franklin Neighborhood: Mix of mature and young trees, school proximity requiring enhanced safety measures, and seasonal occupancy patterns. Traffic control and pedestrian protection are emphasized.
• South Park Boulevard Corridor: High traffic arterial, overhead utility lines, and business district impacts. Equipment operation is restricted during peak hours, and public notification is required.
• College of DuPage Vicinity: Multi-story buildings, crane operation needs, and limited disposal site proximity. Seasonal student population affects scheduling and community engagement.

Each area requires tailored approaches to tree health assessment, permit procedures, safety protocols, and community coordination.

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

Glen Ellyn enforces strict regulations for tree removal equipment operation and commercial service standards to protect residents and the environment. Key requirements include:

• Permitted operating hours: 7:00 AM–8:00 PM weekdays, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM weekends
• Noise restrictions and decibel limitations, with additional limits during sensitive hours
• Business license and contractor registration with the Village
• Insurance requirements: minimum $1 million general liability, workers’ compensation, property damage coverage
• Bonding for municipal contract work
• Arborist certification verification and continuing education
• Traffic control and work zone setup per OSHA and municipal standards
• Pedestrian safety and public notification procedures
• Right-of-way permit coordination
• Immediate cleanup and inspection standards
• Proper material handling, debris containment, and vehicle maintenance to prevent fluid leaks
• Compliance with Illinois EPA and local environmental ordinances, including stormwater protection and erosion control

These standards ensure that all tree removal activities in Glen Ellyn are conducted safely, legally, and with respect for the community and environment.