Deerfield Brush Removal Services

Our Brush Removal Process

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

Deerfield offers comprehensive brush disposal programs to support responsible vegetation management and environmental compliance. Residents can utilize seasonal curbside yard waste collection, typically available April through November, with strict bundling requirements: brush must be cut to 4-foot lengths, bundled under 50 pounds, and tied with biodegradable twine (no plastic). Yard waste drop-off sites are available for residents with posted hours; permits or stickers may be required, and commercial contractors must follow fee structures for bulk loads. Municipal chipping services are coordinated through the Department of Public Works and, where available, the Deerfield Park District, with finished mulch often provided to residents. All brush must be separated from leaves and free of contaminants, in compliance with the Illinois Environmental Protection Act (415 ILCS 5). Strictly avoid placing brush in streets or storm drains to protect the Lake Michigan watershed and prevent MS4 violations. For more information:

Deerfield Department of Public Works
465 Elm Street, Deerfield, IL 60015
Phone: (847) 317-7245
Official Website: Public Works Department

Deerfield Fire Department Coordination for Open Burning Permits & Safety Requirements

Open burning of brush is highly regulated in Deerfield and throughout the Chicago suburbs, with many municipalities prohibiting or strictly limiting the practice. Where permitted, residents must obtain daily open burning permits and adhere to safety requirements, including minimum setback distances from structures (often 50-150 feet), constant supervision, and immediate access to water sources. Burning is never allowed for leaves, construction debris, or treated materials, and must comply with Illinois EPA air quality standards and county-level restrictions (notably strict in Cook and DuPage Counties). Fire weather conditions are monitored in coordination with the National Weather Service Chicago, and burning is suspended during red flag warnings, high winds, or drought. Creating defensible space around structures and maintaining emergency vehicle access are essential for fire safety. For permit information and current regulations:

Deerfield Fire Department
Station locations vary by address; see website for details
Emergency: 911
Official Website: Fire Protection Services

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

Deerfield’s brush management 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, prolific seeder

All invasive brush with viable seeds must be landfilled, 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 (long sleeves, gloves, tick checks). Restoration with native species (serviceberry, viburnum, prairie grasses) supports ecological recovery and aligns with local conservation goals, including those of the Cook County Forest Preserve District and DuPage County Forest Preserve District.

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

Brush removal near wetlands, streams, or protected areas in Deerfield 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 all activities must comply with local tree preservation ordinances and Illinois environmental regulations. Wildlife protection is critical during the April-August breeding season, necessitating mandatory surveys for nesting birds, bat roosts, and active dens. Erosion control is essential on slopes, especially in heavy clay soils prone to severe erosion when vegetation is removed. Selective removal techniques should preserve beneficial habitat features and support ecological stewardship. For guidance and permit requirements:

Deerfield Sustainability Commission
850 Waukegan Road, Deerfield, IL 60015
Phone: (847) 719-7407
Official Website: Sustainability Commission

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

Professional brush removal in Deerfield requires adherence to rigorous safety and certification standards. Complex removals should be performed by ISA Certified Arborists, and all operators of specialized equipment (brush hogs, chippers) must be properly trained and certified. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is mandatory, including chainsaw chaps, gloves, eye and hearing protection, and 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 (JULIE 811 - Call Before You Dig). Liability insurance (minimum $1M per occurrence), workers’ compensation, and bonding are required for all commercial contractors. Proof of JULIE compliance and utility clearance is essential for public safety and legal compliance.

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

Optimal timing for brush removal in Deerfield’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 concludes. Work should be avoided during the May-August nesting season to protect birds and mammals. Weather coordination is essential: avoid operations during high winds (over 20-25 mph), saturated soils, or extreme temperatures. Fire weather awareness is critical, with burning restrictions enforced during red flag warnings and drought. Consult the National Weather Service Chicago for up-to-date forecasts and fire danger ratings.

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

After brush removal, immediate site restoration is required to protect the Lake Michigan watershed and comply with Deerfield’s MS4 permit under the Clean Water Act. Erosion control measures, such as silt fencing and mulching, are critical for exposed clay soils. Native species reestablishment using Illinois-adapted plants supports long-term ecological health and stormwater management. 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 (especially buckthorn), maintenance of restored areas, and, if necessary, licensed herbicide application in accordance with Illinois Department of Agriculture - Pesticide Regulations. For site restoration guidance:

Deerfield Community Development Department
850 Waukegan Road, Deerfield, IL 60015
Phone: (847) 719-7484
Official Website: Community Development Department

Storm Debris Management & Emergency Response Coordination with Deerfield

Severe weather events in the Chicago area often result in significant storm debris requiring coordinated emergency response. Deerfield issues emergency collection announcements and may extend yard waste collection hours or open temporary drop-off sites. 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 major thoroughfares, with coordination among Public Works, Police, and Fire Departments. For major disasters, FEMA documentation and temporary debris storage sites may be established. Safety protocols include traffic control, utility clearance (ComEd), and immediate reporting of hazards. For emergency procedures:

Deerfield Police Department
850 Waukegan Road, Deerfield, IL 60015
Phone: (847) 945-8636
Official Website: Police Department

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Deerfield, IL?

Deerfield encompasses diverse neighborhoods, each with unique brush management considerations:

• Historic Districts: Mature tree canopy, dense buckthorn understory, overhead utilities, narrow streets
• Woodland Park: Proximity to wetlands, conservation easements, high clay content, HOA landscaping standards
• Clavinia: Newer development, less invasive pressure, underground utilities, wide streets for equipment access
• Northeast Deerfield: Adjacent to forest preserves, high wildlife habitat value, fire risk during drought
• South Deerfield: Mixed residential/commercial, busy roads, traffic control needs, stormwater management focus
• Briarwood Vista: Established neighborhood, mature brush, drainage challenges, alley access for collection
• Deerfield Park District Areas: Parkland interface, municipal chipping, community restoration projects Disposal logistics vary by area, with some neighborhoods relying on curbside pickup and others utilizing drop-off sites or Park District programs.

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

Deerfield enforces municipal ordinances governing brush removal equipment operation and commercial service standards. Equipment operation is typically permitted from 7 AM to 9 PM on weekdays and 8 AM to 9 PM on Saturdays, with possible restrictions on Sundays. Commercial contractors must be licensed, bonded, and carry comprehensive insurance. Public safety is prioritized through traffic control measures and maintenance of emergency access routes. Enforcement is managed by the Building & Code Enforcement Division, which oversees compliance with noise, safety, and environmental regulations. Violations may result in fines or suspension of permits. For ordinance details and enforcement procedures:

Deerfield Building & Code Enforcement Division
850 Waukegan Road, Deerfield, IL 60015
Phone: (847) 719-7484
Official Website: Building & Code Enforcement Division