Skokie Brush Removal Services

Our Brush Removal Process

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

Skokie residents benefit from comprehensive brush disposal programs coordinated by the Department of Public Works, which include seasonal curbside yard waste collection (April–November). Bundles must be under 4 feet in length, weigh less than 50 pounds, and be tied with biodegradable twine—plastic is strictly prohibited. Yard waste drop-off sites are available with posted hours, and residents may need a permit or sticker for access. Commercial contractors must follow fee structures for bulk loads. Municipal chipping services are coordinated seasonally, often in spring and fall, and finished mulch may be available for residents. All brush must be separated from leaves and free of contaminants, in compliance with the Illinois Environmental Protection Act (415 ILCS 5). Never place brush in the street or near storm drains to protect the Lake Michigan watershed and avoid MS4 violations.
Skokie Public Works Department
5127 Oakton Street, Skokie, IL 60077
Phone: (847) 933-8427
Official Website: Skokie Public Works Department

Skokie Fire Department Coordination for Open Burning Permits & Safety Requirements

Open burning of brush is highly restricted in Skokie and most Chicago suburbs, with many municipalities prohibiting it entirely due to air quality and safety concerns. Where burning is allowed, a daily permit from the Fire Department is required, and strict safety protocols must be followed, including minimum setbacks from structures (often 50–150 feet), constant supervision, and an available water source. Burning is never permitted during red flag warnings or county-wide bans, which are coordinated with the National Weather Service Chicago and Cook County regulations. Only clean, dry brush may be burned—leaves, treated wood, and plastics are prohibited. Residents must monitor weather conditions and follow cancellation procedures during high-risk periods.
Skokie Fire Department
7424 Niles Center Road, Skokie, IL 60077
Phone: (847) 982-5320
Official Website: Skokie Fire Department

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

Skokie’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)

These species require specialized removal and disposal: bag all fruiting material, never compost or chip invasive brush, and dispose of it at a landfill to prevent spread. Equipment must be sanitized between sites. Hazardous vegetation such as poison ivy, wild parsnip, and tick habitats require protective measures. Restoration with native species (serviceberry, viburnum, prairie grasses) is encouraged to support local ecosystems, in coordination with the Cook County Forest Preserve District and Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

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

Brush removal near Skokie’s wetlands, streams, and protected areas is regulated by the Environmental Commission and may require permits, especially within 10–25 feet of sensitive habitats. Erosion control is critical on slopes and heavy clay soils, using silt fencing or erosion control blankets. Wildlife protection is mandatory during breeding season (April–August), including surveys for nesting birds and active dens. Selective removal techniques should preserve beneficial habitat features, and brush piles may be strategically left for wildlife shelter. Coordination with the Skokie Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission ensures compliance with local conservation goals.
Skokie Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission
5127 Oakton Street, Skokie, IL 60077
Phone: (847) 933-8427
Official Website: Skokie Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission

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

Professional brush removal in Skokie requires adherence to strict safety and certification standards:

• ISA Certified Arborist for complex removals
• Equipment operator certification (chainsaws, chippers, brush hogs)
• Mandatory PPE: chainsaw chaps, gloves, eye and hearing protection, steel-toed boots
• Daily equipment inspections and emergency response readiness
• JULIE 811 notification at least 48–72 hours before excavation or stump removal (JULIE 811 - Call Before You Dig)
• Minimum 10-foot clearance from overhead power lines
• Comprehensive insurance: $1M per occurrence, $2M aggregate, workers’ compensation, and bonding for municipal contracts

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

Optimal brush removal timing in Skokie’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 suitable before nesting season, while late fall (October–November) is ideal after breeding concludes. Avoid work during May–August to protect nesting birds and during wet periods to prevent rutting in clay soils. Monitor weather forecasts with the National Weather Service Chicago for wind, precipitation, and fire danger. Always conduct wildlife surveys before removal and document any protected species encounters, coordinating with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

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

After brush removal, immediate site stabilization is required to protect the Lake Michigan watershed under Skokie’s MS4 permit and the Clean Water Act. Erosion control measures (mulch, blankets, silt fencing) are essential for exposed clay soils. Restore sites with native Illinois plants adapted to local conditions, and amend compacted soils as needed. Construction phase protection includes proper equipment staging and daily cleanup to prevent debris migration. Long-term management involves monitoring for invasive regrowth (especially buckthorn), maintenance of restored areas, and, if necessary, licensed herbicide application in compliance with Illinois Department of Agriculture - Pesticide Regulations.
Skokie Community Development Department
5127 Oakton Street, Skokie, IL 60077
Phone: (847) 933-8223
Official Website: Skokie Community Development Department

Storm Debris Management & Emergency Response Coordination with Skokie

Severe weather in the Chicago area often results in significant storm debris. Skokie coordinates emergency brush collection through public announcements, with separate piles for organic and construction debris. Priority is given to clearing emergency routes and major thoroughfares, with extended drop-off hours or temporary sites as needed. FEMA coordination may be required for major disasters, with documentation for federal assistance. Safety protocols include traffic control, barricades, and coordination with utility companies for downed lines. Residents should follow municipal instructions for debris placement and contact the appropriate agencies for hazardous situations.
Skokie Police Department
7300 Niles Center Road, Skokie, IL 60077
Phone: (847) 982-5900
Official Website: Skokie Police Department

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Skokie, IL?

Skokie’s neighborhoods each present unique brush management challenges:

• Devonshire: Mature canopy, heavy buckthorn understory, narrow streets limit equipment access
• Old Orchard: Proximity to forest preserves, high invasive pressure, sensitive wetland buffers
• Lorel Park: Dense residential, overhead utilities, alley access, moderate brush density
• Timber Ridge: Newer development, less invasive pressure, HOA landscaping standards
• Skokie Park District areas: Public land, high restoration standards, frequent chipping needs
• Fairview: Clay soils, drainage issues, established vegetation, property value-driven restoration
• East Prairie: Stream corridors, conservation easements, wildlife habitat protection

Disposal logistics vary by area, with some neighborhoods relying on curbside pickup and others on drop-off sites or municipal chipping programs.
Skokie Park District
9300 Weber Park Place, Skokie, IL 60077
Phone: (847) 674-1500
Official Website: Skokie Park District

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

Brush removal in Skokie is governed by municipal ordinances that specify equipment operation hours (typically 7 AM–9 PM weekdays, 8 AM–9 PM Saturdays, with possible Sunday restrictions). Commercial operators must be licensed, carry comprehensive insurance, and comply with public safety requirements, including traffic control and emergency vehicle access. Noise restrictions apply to all powered equipment. Enforcement is managed through Code Enforcement, with penalties for violations. All operations must comply with local, state, and federal regulations, including the Illinois Environmental Protection Act (415 ILCS 5) and Skokie Codes and Ordinances.