Frankfort Brush Removal Services

Our Brush Removal Process

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

Frankfort offers comprehensive brush disposal options to support responsible vegetation management and environmental compliance. Residents can utilize seasonal curbside yard waste collection, typically available from April through November, with strict bundling requirements: brush must be cut to 4-foot lengths, each bundle under 50 pounds, and tied with biodegradable twine (no plastic). 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 programs are coordinated through the Department of Public Works, with on-site chipping and finished mulch available during peak spring and fall seasons. All brush must be separated from leaves and free of contaminants, in compliance 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:

Frankfort Department of Public Works
432 W Nebraska St, Frankfort, IL 60423
Phone: (815) 469-2177
Official Website: Frankfort Department of Public Works

Frankfort Fire Department Coordination for Open Burning Permits & Safety Requirements

Open burning of brush in Frankfort is subject to strict regulations, with many Chicago suburbs prohibiting or severely limiting this practice due to air quality and fire safety concerns. Where permitted, residents must obtain a daily open burning permit from the Fire Department, adhere to seasonal burning windows, and follow safety requirements such as maintaining minimum setbacks from structures (typically 50-150 feet), constant supervision, and having a water source on hand. Burning of leaves, construction debris, or treated wood is prohibited. Fire weather restrictions are coordinated with the National Weather Service Chicago, and burning is suspended during red flag warnings, high winds, or drought. County-level bans (Cook and Will Counties) may also apply. For permit information and safety guidelines:

Frankfort Fire Department
7651 W. Sauk Trail, Frankfort, IL 60423
Phone: (815) 469-1700
Official Website: Frankfort Fire Department

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

Frankfort’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: remove before fruit set (June-September), bag berries to prevent seed spread, and dispose of viable material in landfills (never compost or chip for mulch). Hazardous vegetation such as poison ivy, wild parsnip, and tick habitats require protective measures. Restoration with native species (oak, serviceberry, viburnum) is encouraged to support local ecosystems. For guidance on hazardous vegetation and restoration:

Frankfort Community Development Department
432 W Nebraska St, Frankfort, IL 60423
Phone: (815) 469-2177
Official Website: Frankfort Development Services Department

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

Brush removal near wetlands, streams, or protected areas in Frankfort requires coordination with the Environmental Commission or Sustainability Board. Permits may be required for work within 10-25 feet of sensitive habitats, and erosion control measures are mandatory on slopes, especially in heavy clay soils prone to erosion. Wildlife protection is critical during the April-August breeding season, with mandatory surveys for nesting birds and active dens. Selective removal techniques should preserve beneficial habitat features, and immediate site stabilization is required to prevent sediment runoff. For environmental compliance and permit requirements:

Frankfort Environmental Commission
432 W Nebraska St, Frankfort, IL 60423
Phone: (815) 469-2177
Official Website: Frankfort's Official Website

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

Professional brush removal in Frankfort requires adherence to strict safety and certification standards. Complex removals should be performed by ISA Certified Arborists, and all operators must be trained in equipment safety (chainsaws, chippers, brush hogs) and wear comprehensive PPE (chainsaw chaps, gloves, eye and hearing protection, 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. Liability insurance (minimum $1M per occurrence), workers’ compensation, and bonding are required for commercial contractors. For utility coordination:

JULIE (Joint Utility Locating Information for Excavators)
Call 811 or visit JULIE 811 - Call Before You Dig

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

Optimal brush removal timing in Frankfort’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 removal during May-August to protect nesting birds and during wet periods to prevent rutting in clay soils. Monitor weather forecasts from the National Weather Service Chicago for wind, precipitation, and fire danger. Adhere to fire weather warnings and avoid work during red flag conditions or drought.

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

After brush removal, immediate site restoration is essential to comply with Frankfort’s MS4 permit and protect the Lake Michigan watershed. Erosion control measures (mulch, silt fencing, erosion blankets) are critical on exposed clay soils. Reestablish native vegetation using Illinois-adapted species to stabilize soil and support biodiversity. Construction-phase protection includes proper equipment staging, daily cleanup, and containment of debris. Long-term management involves monitoring for invasive regrowth (especially buckthorn), maintaining restored areas, and using herbicides only as permitted by the Illinois Department of Agriculture - Pesticide Regulations. For water quality compliance:

Illinois EPA Water Quality & Watershed Management

Storm Debris Management & Emergency Response Coordination with Frankfort

Severe weather events in the Chicago area often generate significant storm debris. Frankfort coordinates emergency brush collection through public announcements, with separate placement of organic brush and construction debris. Priority is given to clearing emergency routes, and extended drop-off hours or temporary sites may be established. FEMA coordination may be required for major disasters, with documentation for federal assistance. Safety protocols include utility coordination (ComEd for power lines), traffic control with the Police Department, and public safety measures during cleanup. For emergency response:

Frankfort Police Department
20602 Lincoln-Way Lane, Frankfort, IL 60423
Phone: (815) 469-9435
Official Website: Frankfort Police Department

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Frankfort, IL?

Frankfort’s neighborhoods present diverse brush management challenges:

• Historic Downtown: Mature vegetation, high buckthorn pressure, narrow streets, overhead utilities, proximity to wetlands
• Prestwick: Large lots, forest preserve buffers, HOA requirements, clay soils, wildlife habitat
• Brookmeadow Estates: Newer development, less invasive pressure, underground utilities, HOA landscaping standards
• Butternut Creek Woods: Adjacent to forest preserve, high invasive density, wetland proximity, access limitations
• Lincoln-Way Area: Mixed-age properties, moderate brush density, utility corridors, drainage challenges
• Old Plank Trail Corridor: Conservation easements, native restoration focus, public access, stormwater management needs
• Sandalwood Estates: Established subdivision, mature brush, alley access, property value-driven restoration Each area requires tailored disposal logistics, environmental sensitivity, and compliance with municipal programs.

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

Frankfort enforces municipal ordinances governing brush removal equipment operation and commercial service standards. Equipment operation is typically allowed 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, carry comprehensive insurance, and comply with public safety requirements such as traffic control and emergency access. Code Enforcement oversees compliance, and violations may result in fines or suspension of permits. For ordinance details and enforcement procedures:

Frankfort Code Enforcement
432 W Nebraska St, Frankfort, IL 60423
Phone: (815) 469-2177
Official Website: Frankfort Code Enforcement