Cicero Brush Removal Services

Our Brush Removal Process

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

Cicero residents benefit from structured brush disposal programs coordinated by the Department of Public Works, which include seasonal curbside yard waste collection typically running from April through November. Bundles must be under 4 feet in length, weigh less than 50 pounds, and be tied with biodegradable twine—plastic is strictly prohibited. Yard waste drop-off sites are available with posted hours, and residents may need a permit or sticker for access. Commercial contractors bringing bulk brush loads must comply with fee structures and registration requirements. Municipal chipping services are available by coordination, with finished mulch sometimes offered 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 the street or near storm drains to protect the Lake Michigan watershed and prevent MS4 violations. For more information: Cicero Department of Public Works
4949 W. Cermak Road, Cicero, IL 60804
Phone: (708) 656-3600
Official Website: Cicero Department of Public Works

Cicero Fire Department Coordination for Open Burning Permits & Safety Requirements

Open burning of brush in Cicero is subject to strict regulation, with many Chicago-area municipalities—including those in Cook County—prohibiting or severely restricting 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, or treated wood is prohibited. Fire weather restrictions are enforced in coordination with the National Weather Service Chicago, and burning may be suspended during red flag warnings or county-wide bans. Always check current regulations before planning any open burning. For permit information: Cicero Fire Department
5303 W. 25th Street, Cicero, IL 60804
Phone: (708) 652-0174
Official Website: Cicero Fire Department

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

Cicero’s brush management must address several invasive species common to the Chicago area, including:

• Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica, Frangula alnus): Dominant understory invasive
• Bush Honeysuckles (Lonicera spp.): Dense thickets
• Multiflora Rose (Rosa multiflora): Thorny barriers
• Autumn Olive (Elaeagnus umbellata): Alters soil chemistry Specialized disposal is required—bagging berries, preventing seed spread, and landfill-only disposal for viable seeds (never composted or chipped). Hazardous vegetation such as poison ivy, wild parsnip, and tick habitats require protective measures. Restoration with native species (serviceberry, viburnum, prairie grasses) supports ecological recovery and aligns with local conservation goals. For guidance on hazardous vegetation and restoration: Cicero Community Development Department
  4949 W. Cermak Road, Cicero, IL 60804
  Phone: (708) 656-3600
  Official Website: Cicero Town Departments

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

Brush removal near Cicero’s wetlands, streams, or protected areas requires coordination with the Environmental Commission or Sustainability Board. Permits may be needed for work within 10-25 feet of sensitive habitats, and erosion control is critical on slopes, especially in heavy clay soils prone to runoff. Wildlife protection is mandatory during the April-August breeding season, including nesting bird surveys and checks for active dens or bat roosts. Selective removal techniques help preserve beneficial habitat features, and immediate site stabilization (mulching, silt fencing) is required to prevent erosion. For environmental compliance and permit information: Cicero Environmental Commission
4949 W. Cermak Road, Cicero, IL 60804
Phone: (708) 656-3600
Official Website: Cicero Town Departments

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

Professional brush removal in Cicero 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 (JULIE 811 - Call Before You Dig). Liability insurance (minimum $1M per occurrence), workers’ compensation, and bonding are required for commercial contractors. Proof of JULIE compliance and utility clearance is mandatory for all projects.

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

Optimal brush removal timing in Cicero’s Zone 5a-6a climate is during the 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) is ideal after nesting concludes. Avoid major removal from May through August to protect nesting birds and other wildlife. Monitor weather forecasts from the National Weather Service Chicago to avoid work during high winds, saturated soils, or red flag fire warnings. Always adjust timing to minimize ecological disturbance and comply with fire and wildlife protection regulations.

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

After brush removal, immediate site restoration is essential to comply with Cicero’s MS4 permit obligations under the Clean Water Act and protect the Lake Michigan watershed. Erosion control measures (mulching, silt fencing, erosion blankets) are critical for exposed clay soils. Reestablish native vegetation using Illinois-adapted species to stabilize soil and support local ecosystems. During construction, stage equipment away from sensitive areas and contain all debris. Long-term management includes monitoring for invasive regrowth (especially buckthorn), maintaining restored areas, and applying herbicides only as needed and by licensed applicators (Illinois Department of Agriculture - Pesticide Regulations). For water quality compliance: Cicero Department of Public Works
4949 W. Cermak Road, Cicero, IL 60804
Phone: (708) 656-3600
Official Website: Cicero Department of Public Works

Storm Debris Management & Emergency Response Coordination with Cicero

Severe weather events in Cicero require coordinated storm debris management. After storms, the Department of Public Works announces emergency collection schedules, and residents must separate organic brush from other debris. Priority is given to clearing emergency routes and major thoroughfares, with extended drop-off hours or temporary sites as needed. FEMA coordination may be necessary for major disasters, requiring documentation and proper debris placement. Safety protocols include traffic control, utility clearance (ComEd, Nicor), and public safety measures during cleanup. For hazardous situations, contact the Police or Fire Department immediately. For emergency response: Cicero Police Department
4901 W. Cermak Road, Cicero, IL 60804
Phone: (708) 652-2130
Official Website: Cicero Police Department

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Cicero, IL?

Cicero’s neighborhoods each present unique brush management challenges:

• Historic Districts: Mature buckthorn infestations, dense overhead utilities, narrow alleys
• Boulevard Manor: Proximity to forest preserve buffers, higher fire risk during drought
• Grant Works: Heavy clay soils, limited equipment access, older infrastructure
• Hawthorne: Newer developments, less invasive pressure, HOA landscaping standards
• Cicero Central: High utility density, alley collection, traffic control needs
• Morton Park: Wetland proximity, conservation easements, seasonal high water table
• Parkholme: Community standards for restoration, property value considerations, drop-off site convenience Each area requires tailored approaches for vegetation type, environmental sensitivity, equipment access, and disposal logistics, ensuring compliance with municipal and environmental regulations.

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

Cicero enforces municipal ordinances governing brush removal equipment operation and commercial service standards. Equipment may typically be operated 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 vehicle access. Enforcement is managed through Code Enforcement, with penalties for violations including illegal dumping, noise infractions, or unpermitted work. For ordinance details and enforcement procedures: Cicero Code Enforcement
4949 W. Cermak Road, Cicero, IL 60804
Phone: (708) 656-3600
Official Website: Cicero Building Department