Homewood Tree Removal Services

Our Tree Removal Process

Contact Homewood's Department of Public Works for Tree Permits & Municipal Oversight

Tree removal in Homewood, Illinois is governed by a robust municipal framework designed to protect the community’s urban forest and ensure public safety. The Homewood Department of Public Works (DPW) oversees all tree removal activities on public property and within parkways, requiring permits for the removal of trees typically 6 inches or greater in diameter at breast height (DBH) for protected species, and 8 inches or greater for public trees. Residents and contractors must submit permit applications, which are reviewed through site inspections and written determinations. Emergency removals due to hazardous conditions may be authorized immediately, but must be reported to the DPW. Public notification and, for significant removals, public hearings may be required. The DPW also coordinates with municipal forestry programs, manages storm response, and enforces compliance through penalties and bond requirements. For more information or to begin the permit process, contact:

Public Works Department
17755 S Ashland Ave, Homewood, IL 60430
Phone: (708) 206-3470
Official Website: Public Works Department

Understanding Tree Health Assessment & Professional Certification Requirements in Homewood

Homewood mandates that tree health assessments and risk evaluations be conducted by International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborists. These professionals use standardized protocols to assess structural integrity, disease presence, pest infestations, and proximity risks to structures or utilities. For formal risk assessments, the Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ) is required. Additional certifications may include Illinois arborist licensing, commercial pesticide applicator licenses for chemical treatments, and crane operator certifications for large removals. Common local species such as oaks, maples, ash, and elms are susceptible to threats like emerald ash borer and oak wilt. Before removal, alternatives such as structural pruning, cabling, soil improvement, and integrated pest management should be considered. Liability insurance and professional documentation are required for all assessments and removals.

Illinois Environmental Protection Agency Requirements for Tree Removal & Water Quality Protection

Tree removal operations in Homewood must comply with Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations to protect water quality and sensitive habitats. Coordination with watershed protection programs is essential to prevent debris and sediment from entering streams, rivers, and wetlands. Erosion control measures, such as sediment barriers and immediate site stabilization, are required, especially on slopes or near water bodies. Nesting bird surveys (March–August) and bat habitat assessments for large cavity trees are mandated to protect wildlife, in accordance with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Stormwater management must align with Homewood’s MS4 permit and EPA NPDES requirements, using best practices from the Illinois Urban Manual. Invasive species, such as buckthorn and emerald ash borer-infested material, must be disposed of following state quarantine protocols. For broader regulatory context, see the Clean Water Act and U.S. EPA Region 5.

Municipal Tree Protection Ordinances & Public Tree Management in Homewood

Homewood enforces detailed tree protection ordinances, requiring permits for removal of trees above specific DBH thresholds on both private and public property. Heritage or landmark trees, often defined by species and size, receive special protection and may require additional documentation and public review. Permit applications are coordinated through the Building and Planning Departments, with review timelines and public notification requirements. Enforcement includes violation reporting, citation issuance, stop-work orders, and correction timelines. Contractors must carry commercial general liability insurance (minimum $1 million), workers’ compensation, and property damage coverage. The DPW maintains a municipal tree inventory, conducts systematic inspections, and implements proactive hazard identification and community planting initiatives. For zoning and planning coordination, contact:

Community Development Department
2020 Chestnut Rd, Homewood, IL 60430
Phone: (708) 206-3387
Official Website: Community Development Department

Safety Regulations & Utility Coordination for Tree Removal Operations in Homewood

Safety is paramount in all tree removal operations. The Homewood Building Department oversees permits for removals affecting structures, ensuring compliance with building codes and coordination with utility companies. OSHA standards (29 CFR 1910.266, 1926 Subpart R) require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), certified rigging and climbing practices, aerial lift safety, and fall protection systems. Utility coordination includes advance notification to electric, gas, water, and telecommunications providers, with JULIE (811) notification required at least 48 hours before root zone excavation. Clearance protocols for overhead lines and qualified line clearance arborist certification are mandatory. Public safety measures include street closure permits, traffic control plans, and coordination with the Homewood Police Department. Contractors must maintain insurance coverage of at least $1 million in liability and workers’ compensation for all employees.

Building Division / Building Permits
2020 Chestnut Rd, 2nd Floor, Homewood, IL 60430
Phone: (708) 206-3856
Official Website: Building Division / Building Permits

Proper Tree Debris Disposal Through Homewood's Municipal Programs & Illinois Waste Requirements

Homewood supports Illinois’s organic waste diversion goals by prohibiting tree debris in household trash and promoting municipal composting and wood waste programs. Residents can utilize the village’s composting facility or transfer site, following permit and fee requirements, accepted material specifications, and load size limitations. Seasonal brush pickup is available, with size and placement guidelines, and special collections are organized after storm events. Wood waste diversion options include municipal chipping programs, sawmill partnerships for valuable species, firewood processing, and biomass facility coordination. Storm debris management involves emergency collection, FEMA coordination, and debris separation protocols. For more information on local debris disposal, contact:

Public Works Department
17755 S Ashland Ave, Homewood, IL 60430
Phone: (708) 206-3470
Official Website: Public Works Department

Protecting Homewood's Urban Forest Through Replacement Requirements & Community Stewardship

Homewood’s urban forest management emphasizes tree replacement, species diversity, and community engagement. Replacement requirements specify native or climate-adapted species, typically 2–3 inch caliper, with standards for planting location, spacing, and establishment care. In-lieu fees may apply if on-site planting is not feasible. Urban forest goals include maintaining 30–40% canopy coverage and limiting single species to 10% of the total population. Community involvement is encouraged through volunteer planting programs, Arbor Day events, and educational workshops. Preservation alternatives, such as fertilization, structural support, and integrated pest management, are promoted for heritage trees. Long-term planning addresses succession for aging populations and climate adaptation strategies. For stewardship opportunities, contact:

Environmental Programs / T.R.E.E. Committee
2020 Chestnut Rd, Homewood, IL 60430
Phone: (708) 206-3387
Official Website: Environmental Programs / T.R.E.E. Committee

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Homewood, IL?

Homewood’s neighborhoods each present unique tree removal challenges and regulatory considerations:

• Downtown Homewood: Features mature oaks and maples, historic district review requirements, narrow streets limiting equipment access, and high pedestrian traffic necessitating robust safety measures.
• Ravinia/Heather Hill: Predominantly residential with large ash and elm populations, emerald ash borer zones, HOA approval processes, and proximity to wetlands requiring erosion control.
• Southgate: Mix of aging trees and new plantings, frequent storm damage, utility conflicts, and MS4 stormwater compliance for removals near drainageways.
• Governors Park: Heritage trees and conservation easements, deed restrictions, and limited street parking affecting equipment logistics.
• Flossmoor Road Corridor: Commercial and multi-family properties, business district impacts, traffic control on arterial roads, and special collection needs after storms.
• Homewood Estates: Senior community with safety-focused removal protocols, invasive species concentrations, and seasonal occupancy patterns.
• Western Avenue Area: Proximity to Butterfield Creek, flood-prone zones, rare species habitat, and green infrastructure integration.

Each area requires careful coordination with municipal departments, adherence to permit and notification requirements, and consideration of environmental and community sensitivities.

Homewood Municipal Ordinances for Tree Removal Equipment Operation & Commercial Service Standards

Homewood’s municipal ordinances regulate tree removal equipment operation to minimize community disruption and ensure safety. Permitted operating hours are typically 7:00 AM–8:00 PM on weekdays and 9:00 AM–6:00 PM on weekends, with noise restrictions enforced in residential areas. Contractors must obtain a business license, register with the municipality, and provide proof of insurance (minimum $1 million liability, workers’ compensation, property damage). Bonding is required for municipal contract work, and arborist certification must be verified. Safety protocols include traffic control, proper equipment operation, OSHA compliance, and public notification. Environmental compliance mandates proper material handling, immediate cleanup, vehicle maintenance, and documentation of waste disposal, with coordination to Illinois Environmental Protection Agency and local ordinances to protect stormwater and prevent erosion.