Bartlett Brush Removal Services

Our Brush Removal Process

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

Bartlett’s Department of Public Works oversees comprehensive brush disposal programs to ensure safe, environmentally responsible management of yard waste. Residents may utilize seasonal curbside collection (April–November), following strict guidelines: brush must be bundled in 4-foot lengths, weigh under 50 pounds, and be tied with biodegradable twine—plastic is strictly prohibited. Yard waste drop-off sites are available with posted hours; resident permits or stickers may be required, and commercial contractors must comply with fee structures for bulk loads. On-site chipping services are coordinated seasonally, with finished mulch sometimes 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. For program details and schedules, contact:

Bartlett Public Works Department
228 S. Main Street, Bartlett, IL 60103
Phone: (630) 837-0811
Official Website: Bartlett Public Works Department

Bartlett Fire Department Coordination for Open Burning Permits & Safety Requirements

Open burning of brush in Bartlett is subject to strict regulation, with many Chicago suburbs—including Bartlett—prohibiting or severely limiting open burning due to air quality and safety concerns. Where burning is permitted, residents must obtain a daily permit, adhere to setback requirements (typically 50–150 feet from structures), and ensure constant supervision with water or fire extinguishers on hand. Burning of leaves, construction debris, or plastics is strictly forbidden. Weather conditions must be monitored, especially during dry, windy periods; burning is prohibited during National Weather Service Chicago red flag warnings or county-level bans (Cook and DuPage Counties). Always check current regulations and obtain approval before burning. For permit information and fire safety guidance, contact:

Bartlett Fire Protection District
234 N. Oak Ave, Bartlett, IL 60103
Phone: (630) 837-3701
Official Website: Bartlett Fire Protection District

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

Bartlett’s natural areas and residential landscapes are heavily impacted by invasive brush species, especially in the region’s characteristic heavy clay soils. Common invasive species include:

• Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica, Frangula alnus)
• Bush Honeysuckles (Lonicera spp.)
• Multiflora Rose (Rosa multiflora)
• Autumn Olive (Elaeagnus umbellata)

Proper removal requires timing before seed set (June–September), bagging berries, and landfill-only disposal—never compost or chip invasive brush. 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 ecological health. For invasive species management, consult the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and Illinois EPA.

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

Brush removal near Bartlett’s wetlands, streams, and protected areas is regulated to safeguard sensitive habitats and water quality. The Bartlett Environmental Commission may require permits for work within 10–25 feet of wetlands or streams, with erosion control measures (silt fencing, erosion blankets) mandated on slopes, especially in heavy clay soils prone to erosion. Wildlife protection is essential: surveys for nesting birds (April–August), bat roosts, and mammal dens are required before removal. Selective removal techniques preserve beneficial habitat features, and brush piles may be created for wildlife shelter where appropriate. For buffer zone requirements and environmental compliance, contact:

Bartlett Environmental Commission
228 S. Main Street, Bartlett, IL 60103
Phone: (630) 837-0800
Official Website: Village of Bartlett Official Website

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

Professional brush removal in Bartlett demands adherence to rigorous safety and certification standards. Complex removals require ISA Certified Arborists and trained operators for specialized equipment (brush hogs, chippers). All personnel must use PPE: 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). Maintain safe distances from overhead lines and coordinate with local utilities. Contractors must carry a minimum $1 million liability insurance, workers’ compensation, and bonding for municipal work. Proof of JULIE compliance is mandatory.

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

Bartlett’s climate (Zone 5a–6a) and heavy clay soils require careful timing for brush removal. The optimal window is winter (December–March) when the ground is frozen, minimizing soil compaction and wildlife disturbance. Early spring (March–April) is suitable before bird nesting begins, while late fall (October–November) is ideal after breeding season. Avoid work during May–August to protect nesting birds and during wet periods to prevent rutting in clay soils. Monitor National Weather Service Chicago forecasts for wind and precipitation; avoid work during high winds or saturated conditions. Fire weather awareness is critical, especially near forest preserves and during droughts.

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

After brush removal, immediate site restoration is essential to protect the Lake Michigan watershed under Bartlett’s MS4 permit and the Clean Water Act. Erosion control (mulch, blankets, silt fencing) is critical on exposed clay soils. Reestablish native vegetation adapted to local conditions, and amend compacted soils as needed. During construction, stage equipment away from sensitive areas and contain debris to prevent stormwater contamination. Long-term management includes monitoring for invasive regrowth (buckthorn resprouts vigorously), maintaining restored areas, and using herbicides only as permitted by the Illinois Department of Agriculture - Pesticide Regulations. For MS4 compliance, contact:

Bartlett Public Works Department
228 S. Main Street, Bartlett, IL 60103
Phone: (630) 837-0811
Official Website: Bartlett Public Works Department

Storm Debris Management & Emergency Response Coordination with Bartlett

Severe weather events in Bartlett often generate significant brush and storm debris. The Department of Public Works coordinates emergency collection, with announcements via the village website and social media. Residents must separate organic brush from construction debris and place it at the curb without blocking streets. Priority is given to emergency routes and major thoroughfares. For major disasters, FEMA coordination may be required, including documentation and temporary debris storage. Safety protocols include traffic control, utility clearance (ComEd), and coordination with Police and Fire Departments. For emergency response procedures, contact:

Bartlett Public Works Department
228 S. Main Street, Bartlett, IL 60103
Phone: (630) 837-0811
Official Website: Bartlett Public Works Department

Bartlett Police Department
228 S. Main Street, Bartlett, IL 60103
Phone: (630) 837-0846
Official Website: Bartlett Police Department

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Bartlett, IL?

Bartlett’s neighborhoods present diverse brush management challenges:

• Historic Downtown: Mature trees, dense buckthorn understory, narrow streets, overhead utilities, and limited equipment access
• Woodland Hills: Proximity to forest preserves, high invasive pressure, sensitive wetland buffers, HOA landscaping standards
• Bartlett Hills: Rolling topography, clay soils, drainage issues, and established native plantings
• Apple Orchard: Newer development, less invasive pressure, wider streets, underground utilities, HOA requirements
• Fairfax Crossings: Wetland proximity, conservation easements, seasonal high water table, and strict disposal logistics
• Herons Landing: Adjacent to DuPage County Forest Preserve District, wildlife corridors, and fire risk during droughts
• Lakewood Mill: Manicured landscapes, high property values, and expectations for rapid restoration Each area requires tailored approaches for vegetation, environmental sensitivity, infrastructure, and disposal logistics.

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

Bartlett enforces municipal ordinances governing brush removal equipment operation and commercial service standards. Equipment may typically be operated from 7 AM–9 PM on weekdays and 8 AM–9 PM on Saturdays; Sunday restrictions may apply—verify with the Code Enforcement Division. Commercial contractors must be licensed, carry comprehensive insurance, and comply with public safety requirements, including traffic control and emergency access. Enforcement is managed by the Community Development Department, which also oversees permit requirements and responds to violations. For ordinance details and enforcement procedures, contact:

Bartlett Community Development Department
228 S. Main Street, Bartlett, IL 60103
Phone: (630) 540-5920
Official Website: Bartlett Planning & Development Services Department

By following Bartlett’s municipal programs, environmental regulations, and professional standards, residents and contractors can ensure safe, compliant, and ecologically responsible brush removal that protects the community, local ecosystems, and the Lake Michigan watershed.