Olympia Fields Brush Removal Services

Our Brush Removal Process

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

Olympia Fields provides residents with structured brush disposal options to ensure compliance with state and local environmental regulations. Curbside yard waste collection typically runs from April through November, requiring brush to be bundled in 4-foot lengths, each bundle weighing under 50 pounds, and tied with biodegradable twine—plastic is strictly prohibited. Yard waste drop-off sites are available for residents, with specific operating hours and permit or sticker requirements; commercial contractors may be subject to additional fees for bulk loads. Municipal chipping programs are coordinated through the Department of Public Works and, where available, the Park District, offering on-site chipping and finished mulch for residents during peak spring and fall seasons. All brush must be separated from leaves and free of contaminants, in accordance with the Illinois Environmental Protection Act (415 ILCS 5). Street and storm drain disposal is strictly prohibited to protect the Lake Michigan watershed, and violations may result in penalties. For more information:

Olympia Fields Public Works Department
20040 Governors Highway, Olympia Fields, IL 60461
Phone: (708) 503-8200
Official Website: Olympia Fields Public Works Department

Olympia Fields Fire Department Coordination for Open Burning Permits & Safety Requirements

Open burning of brush in Olympia Fields is subject to strict regulation, with many Chicago suburbs—including those in Cook County—prohibiting or severely limiting open burning due to air quality and public safety concerns. Where burning is permitted, residents must obtain a daily permit from the Fire Department, adhere to setback requirements (typically 50-150 feet from structures), and ensure constant supervision with a water source on hand. Burning of leaves, construction debris, treated wood, rubber, or plastics is strictly forbidden. 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. Defensible space should be maintained around structures, especially in semi-rural areas, to support emergency vehicle access and reduce fire risk. For permit information and safety guidelines:

Olympia Fields Fire Department
20040 Governors Highway, Olympia Fields, IL 60461
Phone: (708) 503-8200
Official Website: Village of Olympia Fields Official Website

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

Olympia Fields and the greater Chicago area face significant invasive brush pressure, with Common Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica), Glossy Buckthorn (Frangula alnus), Bush Honeysuckles (Lonicera spp.), Multiflora Rose (Rosa multiflora), and Autumn Olive (Elaeagnus umbellata) dominating many understories. Proper identification is crucial, as these species require specialized removal and disposal protocols: invasive brush with viable seeds must be bagged and sent to landfill, never composted or chipped for mulch. Removal should occur before seed set (June-September) to prevent spread. Hazardous vegetation such as poison ivy, wild parsnip, and tick habitats require protective measures and prompt treatment. Restoration with native species—such as serviceberry, viburnum, and prairie grasses—supports ecological recovery and wildlife habitat. For guidance on invasive species management, consult the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and Illinois EPA.

Olympia Fields Environmental Commission Requirements for Brush Removal Near Wetlands & Protected Areas

Brush removal near Olympia Fields’s wetlands, streams, and protected areas is regulated to safeguard sensitive habitats and water quality. The Environmental Commission or Sustainability Board may require permits for work within 10-25 feet of wetlands or streams, and coordination with state and federal environmental regulations is essential. Wildlife protection is prioritized, with mandatory nesting bird surveys during the April-August breeding season and visual inspections for active dens or bat roosts. Erosion control is critical on slopes, especially in heavy clay soils prone to severe erosion when vegetation is removed; temporary sediment barriers and immediate revegetation are required. Selective removal techniques help preserve beneficial habitat features and support local conservation goals. For permit requirements and environmental guidance:

Olympia Fields Environmental Commission
20040 Governors Highway, Olympia Fields, IL 60461
Phone: (708) 503-8000
Official Website: Olympia Fields Committees and Commissions

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

Professional brush removal in Olympia Fields requires adherence to rigorous safety and certification standards. Complex removals should be performed by ISA Certified Arborists, with specialized training in invasive species management and equipment operation (chainsaws, chippers, brush hogs). All personnel must use personal protective equipment (PPE), including chainsaw chaps, cut-resistant 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, and minimum approach distances to overhead lines must be maintained. Contractors must carry comprehensive liability insurance (minimum $1M per occurrence), environmental impairment coverage if herbicides are used, and workers’ compensation. For utility coordination:

• JULIE 811 - Call Before You Dig

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

Optimal brush removal timing in Olympia Fields is influenced by climate, wildlife, and soil conditions. The best window is winter (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, while late fall (October-November) follows the completion of nesting. Work should be avoided during May-August to protect nesting birds and during periods of saturated soils to prevent equipment damage. Weather forecasts from the National Weather Service Chicago should be consulted to avoid high winds, heavy precipitation, or red flag fire warnings. Wildlife surveys are mandatory before removal during breeding season, and all work should be documented for compliance.

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

After brush removal, Olympia Fields requires immediate site stabilization to protect the Lake Michigan watershed under its MS4 permit and the Clean Water Act. Erosion control is essential for exposed clay soils, using mulch, erosion control blankets, or silt fencing on slopes. Native species reestablishment with Illinois-adapted plants supports long-term ecological health and stormwater infiltration. 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 watershed management guidance:

• Illinois EPA Water Quality & Watershed Management

Storm Debris Management & Emergency Response Coordination with Olympia Fields

Severe weather events in the Chicago area often generate significant storm debris, requiring coordinated emergency response. Olympia Fields issues emergency collection announcements via its website and social media, instructing residents to separate organic brush from construction debris and place it at the curb without blocking streets. Priority is given to clearing emergency routes and major thoroughfares, with extended collection hours or temporary drop-off sites as needed. Coordination with FEMA may be necessary for federal disaster declarations, requiring documentation and temporary debris storage management. Safety protocols include traffic control, utility clearance (ComEd), and public safety measures during cleanup. For emergency response coordination:

Olympia Fields Police Department
20040 Governors Highway, Olympia Fields, IL 60461
Phone: (708) 503-8100
Official Website: Olympia Fields Police Department

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Olympia Fields, IL?

Olympia Fields encompasses diverse neighborhoods, each with unique brush management needs:

• Graymoor: Mature tree canopy, dense buckthorn understory, overhead utilities, and narrow streets require careful equipment access and invasive management.
• Olympia Club: Newer development with less invasive pressure, HOA landscaping standards, and efficient curbside collection routes.
• Maynegaite: Proximity to wetlands and Cook County Forest Preserve buffer zones necessitates permit coordination and sensitive habitat protection.
• Arcadia: Established neighborhood with heavy clay soils, mature brush, and drainage challenges; requires erosion control and seasonal timing.
• The Greens: Planned community with deed restrictions, manicured landscapes, and high property value expectations for restoration.
• Suburban Woods: Semi-rural lots with fire risk near prairie remnants, requiring defensible space and emergency vehicle access.
• Olympia Fields East: Mix of older and newer homes, variable utility density, and access to municipal chipping services.

Olympia Fields Municipal Ordinances for Brush Removal Equipment Operation & Commercial Service Standards

Brush removal in Olympia Fields is governed by municipal ordinances that regulate equipment operation hours (typically 7 AM-9 PM weekdays, 8 AM-9 PM Saturdays; Sunday restrictions may apply), noise levels, and public safety. Commercial contractors must be licensed, carry comprehensive insurance, and comply with bonding requirements for municipal work. Traffic control and emergency access must be maintained during operations, especially on busy streets or near schools. Code Enforcement oversees compliance, with penalties for violations such as illegal dumping, improper equipment use, or failure to obtain required permits. Residents and contractors should consult the Community Development Department for up-to-date regulations and enforcement procedures:

Olympia Fields Community Development Department
20040 Governors Highway, Olympia Fields, IL 60461
Phone: (708) 503-8000
Official Website: Olympia Fields Building Department