Shorewood Leaf Removal Services

Our Leaf Removal Process

Contact Shorewood's Department of Public Works for Seasonal Leaf Collection & Curbside Pickup Schedules

Shorewood’s Department of Public Works (DPW) coordinates a comprehensive leaf collection program each fall, typically running from mid-October through the first week of December. Collection days are assigned by neighborhood, with most areas receiving weekly curbside pickup during peak leaf drop. Residents should place leaves at the curb by 7:00 AM on their scheduled day, ensuring piles are at least three feet from storm drains, fire hydrants, and parked vehicles. Shorewood allows both loose leaf piles (for vacuum truck collection) and biodegradable paper yard waste bags, in compliance with the Illinois yard waste landfill ban. For large volumes, residents may use the Village’s Transfer Station, which requires a permit and accepts leaves during posted hours. Brush and small branch collection is also available, but materials must be separated from leaf piles. For the most current schedule, guidelines, and permit 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

Understanding Leaf Accumulation Impact on Shorewood's Heavy Clay Prairie Soils & Lawn Health

Shorewood’s landscape is dominated by heavy clay prairie soils, as identified by the USDA Web Soil Survey. These soils drain slowly, causing water to pool and creating anaerobic conditions when covered by leaves. Just 2-3 weeks of heavy leaf accumulation can suffocate turfgrass, especially in compacted urban soils, leading to root rot, fungal diseases, and blocked sunlight. In contrast, loess-covered uplands and river bottom alluvial soils in some neighborhoods may allow for slightly faster decomposition, but the risk of lawn damage remains high. Leaves can be beneficial in naturalized beds, conservation buffers, and wooded areas, where they support soil health and wildlife. However, on maintained lawns, removal is essential unless leaf cover is light and soils are well-draining, in which case mulch-mowing may be effective. For detailed soil maps and management tips, visit the USDA Web Soil Survey.

Shorewood Environmental Compliance Guidelines for Leaf Disposal Near Protected Areas

Proper leaf disposal is critical near Shorewood’s streams, wetlands, and conservation areas. Illinois regulations require buffer zones along water bodies to prevent nutrient runoff and protect aquatic habitats. Leaves should be left in place only in designated naturalized areas, where they provide habitat and support nutrient cycling. On maintained lawns and near protected areas, prompt removal is necessary to prevent water pollution and comply with local ordinances. Coordination with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources ensures that sensitive habitats are preserved and wildlife is protected. For questions about buffer management and conservation area guidelines, contact:

Shorewood Community Development Department
One Towne Center Blvd., Shorewood, IL 60404
Phone: (815) 553-2310
Official Website: Shorewood Community Development Department

For additional guidance, see the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

Keep Leaves Out of Streets & Storm Drains: Shorewood's NPDES Stormwater Compliance Requirements

Shorewood participates in the Illinois EPA’s Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) program, which mandates strict controls on organic debris entering storm drains. Leaves left in streets or gutters can clog stormwater systems, leading to localized flooding and water quality degradation in the DuPage River and its tributaries. Decomposing leaves release nutrients that fuel algae growth and deplete oxygen in local waterways, harming aquatic life. Residents must keep leaves off pavement and use only approved curbside collection methods. For more information on stormwater compliance and the Clean Water Act, visit the EPA NPDES and Clean Water Act resources. For local enforcement questions, 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's Implementation of Illinois Organic Waste Management Requirements for Fall Leaves

Illinois law prohibits disposal of yard waste, including leaves, in landfills. Shorewood enforces this through its municipal collection program, requiring residents to use biodegradable paper bags or participate in loose leaf vacuum collection. The Village educates residents on proper disposal, composting options, and setback requirements from property lines and water bodies. The Transfer Station accepts bulk leaves for composting, and residents are encouraged to mulch-mow when feasible. For more information on state regulations and composting best practices, consult the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency and University of Illinois Extension. For health and environmental questions, contact:

Will County Health Department
501 Ella Ave., Joliet, IL 60433
Phone: (815) 727-8480
Official Website: Will County Health Department

Optimal Leaf Removal Timing for Shorewood's Tree Species & Illinois Fall Weather Patterns

Shorewood’s tree canopy features a mix of sugar maples, Norway maples, oaks (red, white, bur), ash, honey locust, and elms. Early October sees leaf drop from maples and ash, while oaks and elms peak from mid-October through November. Bur oaks and American beech may hold leaves into December. The National Weather Service Chicago (NWS Chicago) provides up-to-date forecasts, helping residents schedule removal after major drop events but before heavy rain or early snow. Multiple collection passes are recommended to match the staggered drop of different species. Illinois’ freeze-thaw cycles can mat leaves, making timely removal essential for lawn health and compliance.

Post-Leaf Removal Lawn Recovery & Winter Preparation in Shorewood's Climate Zone

After leaf removal, assess lawns for thin or damaged areas. Late-season fertilization (using a slow-release, nitrogen-rich product) should be applied before the ground freezes, typically by mid-November in Shorewood’s USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. Overseeding is possible if done early in the fall, while the final mowing should leave grass at 2.5-3 inches to protect crowns during winter. Remove all debris to prevent disease and improve drainage, especially in clay-heavy soils. Plan for early spring recovery by monitoring for compaction and reseeding as needed. For expert advice, contact:

University of Illinois Extension
Local Will County Office
Phone: (815) 727-9296
Official Website: University of Illinois Extension

For plant health diagnostics, see the University of Illinois Extension Plant Clinic.

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Shorewood, IL?

Shorewood’s neighborhoods each present unique leaf management challenges:

• River Crossing: Mature oaks and maples, heavy clay soils, proximity to DuPage River requiring strict NPDES compliance.
• Kipling Estates: Newer development with parkway trees, moderate canopy, compacted urban soils, front-only collection logistics.
• Shorewood Glen: Dense honey locust and ash, loess-influenced soils, flat topography, high wind exposure increasing leaf drift.
• Rollingwood: Historic area with large lots, mixed hardwoods, alluvial soils, some floodplain locations, alley access for collection.
• Huntington Village: High-density, smaller lots, urban fill soils, rapid leaf accumulation, close to wetlands needing buffer management.
• Lake Forrest: Adjacent to wooded conservation areas, mature canopy, prairie soils, special wildlife habitat considerations.
• Fields of Shorewood: Newer homes, lighter tree cover, clay soils, open prairie wind patterns, easier collection but rapid matting risk.

Each area’s tree density, soil type, and proximity to sensitive resources influence collection schedules and environmental compliance needs.

Shorewood Municipal Ordinances for Leaf Blowing Equipment Operation & Noise Control

Shorewood regulates the use of leaf blowers and collection equipment to minimize noise and environmental impact. Equipment may typically be operated from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM on weekdays and 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Saturdays, with restrictions on Sundays and holidays. Noise ordinances limit decibel levels, and commercial operators may require special licensing. Residents should avoid blowing leaves into streets or neighboring properties, and all equipment must comply with seasonal restrictions. For details on local ordinances and enforcement, contact:

Shorewood Building Department
One Towne Center Blvd., Shorewood, IL 60404
Phone: (815) 553-2313
Official Website: Shorewood Building Department

For additional regulatory information, see the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 5.

By following Shorewood’s municipal guidelines and state regulations, residents can protect lawn health, support ecological stewardship, and ensure compliance with environmental standards throughout the fall leaf season.