Shorewood Brush Removal Services

Our Brush Removal Process

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

Shorewood residents benefit from comprehensive municipal brush disposal programs designed to protect the Lake Michigan watershed and comply with Illinois environmental regulations. Curbside yard waste collection typically runs April through November, requiring brush to be bundled in 4-foot lengths, under 50 pounds, and tied with biodegradable twine—plastic is strictly prohibited. Yard waste drop-off sites are available with posted hours; residents may need a permit or sticker, while commercial contractors must follow fee structures for bulk loads. Municipal chipping services are coordinated seasonally, often in spring and fall, with finished mulch sometimes available for residents. For more information, contact:

Shorewood Department of Public Works
One Towne Center Blvd., Shorewood, IL 60404
Phone: (815) 553-2321
Official Website: Shorewood Department of Public Works

Shorewood Fire Department Coordination for Open Burning Permits & Safety Requirements

Open burning of brush is highly regulated in Shorewood and much of Will County, with many Chicago suburbs prohibiting or strictly limiting the practice to protect air quality and public safety. Where permitted, daily open burning permits are required, and strict safety protocols must be followed, including minimum setbacks from structures (often 50-150 feet), constant supervision, and immediate access to water or fire extinguishers. Burning is prohibited during red flag warnings or high-risk weather, as coordinated with the National Weather Service Chicago. Residents must comply with county and state air quality standards and are encouraged to use municipal disposal programs instead. For permit information, contact:

Shorewood Fire Department
700 W. Black Road, Shorewood, IL 60404
Phone: (815) 725-2149
Official Website: Shorewood Fire Department

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

Shorewood’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 (oak, serviceberry, viburnum) supports local ecosystems. For guidance, consult the Illinois Environmental Protection Act (415 ILCS 5) and coordinate with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

Shorewood Environmental Commission Requirements for Brush Removal Near Wetlands & Protected Areas

Brush removal near Shorewood’s wetlands, streams, and protected areas is subject to oversight by the Environmental Commission or Sustainability Board. Permits may be required for work within 10-25 feet of sensitive habitats, and erosion control is essential on slopes, especially in heavy clay soils prone to runoff. Wildlife protection is mandatory during the April-August breeding season, including surveys for nesting birds and mammals. Selective removal techniques help preserve beneficial habitat features, and immediate site stabilization prevents soil loss. For permit requirements and environmental guidance, contact:

Shorewood Environmental Commission
One Towne Center Blvd., Shorewood, IL 60404
Phone: (815) 741-7713
Official Website: Shorewood's Official Website

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

Professional brush removal in Shorewood 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) and wear comprehensive PPE (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. Liability insurance (minimum $1M per occurrence), workers’ compensation, and bonding are required for commercial work. For utility coordination, visit JULIE 811 - Call Before You Dig.

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

Optimal brush removal timing in Shorewood’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, while late fall (October-November) follows breeding completion. Work should be avoided during May-August to protect nesting birds and during wet conditions to prevent rutting in clay soils. Weather forecasts from National Weather Service Chicago should be monitored for wind, precipitation, and fire risk. Wildlife surveys are required before removal during breeding season, and all work must comply with local and state environmental regulations.

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

After brush removal, Shorewood’s MS4 (Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System) program requires immediate erosion control to protect the Lake Michigan watershed. Exposed clay soils must be stabilized with mulch, erosion control blankets, or native grass seeding. Restoration should prioritize native Illinois species adapted to local soils and climate. 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 compliance, see Illinois EPA Water Quality & Watershed Management and Clean Water Act.

Storm Debris Management & Emergency Response Coordination with Shorewood

Severe weather events in the Chicago area often generate significant brush and storm debris. Shorewood coordinates emergency collection through public communications, with instructions for separating organic brush from other debris and placing it at the curb without blocking streets. Priority is given to clearing emergency routes, and extended drop-off hours or temporary sites may be established. FEMA coordination may be required for major disasters, with documentation for federal assistance. Safety protocols include utility clearance (ComEd), traffic control with the Police Department, and worker protection from hazardous conditions. For emergency response, contact:

Shorewood Police Department
903 W. Jefferson St., Shorewood, IL 60404
Phone: (815) 725-4636
Official Website: Shorewood Police Department

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Shorewood, IL?

Shorewood encompasses diverse neighborhoods, each with unique brush management needs:

• River Crossing: Mature woodlands, high buckthorn pressure, proximity to DuPage River wetlands, overhead utilities, and narrow access
• Kipling Estates: Newer development, less invasive pressure, HOA landscaping standards, efficient curbside collection
• Shorewood Glen: Planned community, conservation easements, clay soil drainage challenges, strict HOA requirements
• Country West: Larger lots, semi-rural fire risk, equipment access for large brush, wildlife habitat value
• Fox Bend: Adjacent to forest preserve, sensitive habitats, permit coordination for wetland buffers, invasive honeysuckle thickets
• Brookforest: Established neighborhood, mature brush, alley access, older infrastructure, higher utility density
• Walnut Trails: Family-oriented, moderate brush density, school proximity, traffic control needs during removal Each area requires tailored disposal logistics, environmental sensitivity, and compliance with municipal programs.

Shorewood Municipal Ordinances for Brush Removal Equipment Operation & Commercial Service Standards

Shorewood enforces municipal ordinances governing brush removal equipment operation and commercial service standards. Typical operation hours are 7 AM-9 PM on weekdays and 8 AM-9 PM on Saturdays, with possible Sunday restrictions. Commercial contractors must be licensed, carry comprehensive insurance, and comply with public safety requirements, including traffic control and emergency vehicle access. Noise restrictions and equipment maintenance are enforced to minimize community disruption. Code Enforcement oversees compliance, and violations may result in penalties. For regulatory details, contact:

Shorewood Community Development Department
One Towne Center Blvd., Shorewood, IL 60404
Phone: (815) 741-7712
Official Website: Shorewood Community Development Department