Cicero Leaf Removal Services

Our Leaf Removal Process

Contact Cicero's Department of Public Works for Seasonal Leaf Collection & Curbside Pickup Schedules

Cicero’s Department of Public Works (DPW) coordinates the town’s annual leaf collection program, typically running from mid-October through early December. Residents should check the official schedule for their neighborhood, as collection days may vary by area and are often weekly during peak season. Leaves must be placed curbside by 7:00 AM on collection day, either in biodegradable paper bags or, where permitted, in loose piles for vacuum truck pickup. Bags and piles should be set at least three feet from storm drains, fire hydrants, and parked vehicles to ensure safe and efficient collection. The DPW also operates a Transfer Station for bulk leaf drop-off; permits may be required, and hours are generally Monday through Saturday. For brush and small branch collection, follow posted guidelines regarding bundling and size limits. For more information, contact:

Cicero Department of Public Works
4949 W. Cermak Road, Cicero, IL 60804
(708) 656-3600
Official Website: Cicero Department of Public Works

Understanding Leaf Accumulation Impact on Cicero's Heavy Clay Prairie Soils & Lawn Health

Cicero’s landscape is dominated by heavy clay prairie soils, as identified by the USDA Web Soil Survey. These soils drain slowly, causing water to pool and creating anaerobic conditions when leaves accumulate. Just 2-3 weeks of heavy leaf coverage can suffocate turfgrass, especially in compacted urban soils common throughout Cicero. This leads to fungal diseases, blocked sunlight, and rapid lawn decline. In contrast, naturalized garden beds, conservation buffer zones, and wooded areas benefit from leaf retention, supporting soil health and wildlife. Mulch-mowing is effective only with light leaf coverage and well-draining soils; in shaded or clay-heavy areas, removal is necessary to prevent damage. For soil-specific guidance, consult:

University of Illinois Extension
801 N. Country Fair Drive, Champaign, IL 61821
(217) 333-5900
Official Website: University of Illinois Extension

Cicero Environmental Compliance Guidelines for Leaf Disposal Near Protected Areas

Proper leaf disposal is essential near Cicero’s rivers, streams, and conservation areas to protect sensitive habitats. Illinois regulations require buffer zones along water bodies, where natural leaf retention supports wildlife and nutrient cycling. However, leaves must be removed from maintained lawns to prevent nutrient runoff and comply with local ordinances. Coordination with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources ensures that protected areas are managed for both ecological health and regulatory compliance. Residents should avoid dumping leaves in wetlands or near stormwater outfalls and follow setback requirements for composting. For environmental compliance questions, contact:

Cicero Community Development/Environmental Services
4949 W. Cermak Road, Cicero, IL 60804
(708) 656-3600
Official Website: Cicero Town Departments

Keep Leaves Out of Streets & Storm Drains: Cicero's NPDES Stormwater Compliance Requirements

Cicero participates in the Illinois EPA’s MS4 program, which mandates strict controls on organic debris entering stormwater systems. Leaves left in streets or gutters can clog storm drains, leading to localized flooding and water quality degradation in receiving waters such as the Des Plaines River. Decomposing leaves release nutrients that fuel algae blooms and reduce oxygen levels, harming aquatic life. Residents must keep leaves off pavement and use approved curbside collection methods. For more on stormwater compliance, see EPA NPDES and Illinois Environmental Protection Agency. For local enforcement, contact:

Cicero Health Department
4949 W. Cermak Road, Cicero, IL 60804
(708) 656-3600
Official Website: Cicero Health Department

Cicero's Implementation of Illinois Organic Waste Management Requirements for Fall Leaves

Illinois law prohibits disposal of yard waste, including leaves, in landfills. Cicero enforces this through its municipal collection program, requiring residents to use biodegradable paper bags or participate in loose leaf pickup where available. The DPW educates residents on proper disposal, composting alternatives, and setback requirements for on-site compost piles. The Transfer Station accepts leaves for composting, but only during posted hours and with proper permits. These efforts support compliance with the Clean Water Act and state waste management goals. For more information on state regulations, visit Illinois Environmental Protection Agency.

Optimal Leaf Removal Timing for Cicero's Tree Species & Illinois Fall Weather Patterns

Cicero’s urban canopy features sugar maples, Norway maples, ash, oaks, elms, and honey locusts. Early October sees maples and ash begin to drop, followed by oaks, hickories, and elms through November, and bur oak and beech into December. The National Weather Service Chicago provides forecasts to help schedule removals after major drop events but before heavy rain or early snow. Multiple collection passes are recommended to match the sequential drop of different species. Residents should monitor weather for freeze-thaw cycles, which can mat leaves and complicate removal. For plant health questions, contact:

University of Illinois Extension Plant Clinic
1201 S. Dorner Drive, Urbana, IL 61801
(217) 333-0519
Official Website: University of Illinois Extension Plant Clinic

Post-Leaf Removal Lawn Recovery & Winter Preparation in Cicero's Climate Zone

After leaf removal, assess lawns for bare or compacted areas. Late-season fertilization (using a slow-release, nitrogen-rich product) should be applied before the ground freezes, typically by mid-November in Cicero’s USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. Overseeding thin spots is possible if done early in the fall. Mow to a final height of 2.5-3 inches to protect turf over winter, and clear all debris to prevent disease. Improving drainage, especially in clay-heavy soils, helps lawns recover in spring. For spring recovery, plan for early raking and light fertilization as soon as soil temperatures rise.

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Cicero, IL?

Cicero’s neighborhoods each present unique leaf management challenges:

• Grant Works: Dense mature canopy of oaks and maples, heavy clay soils, and proximity to the Des Plaines River require strict NPDES compliance and frequent collection.
• Boulevard Manor: Newer development with moderate tree cover, better drainage, but smaller lots and alley access complicate collection logistics.
• Clyde: Historic area with compacted urban soils, high tree density, and narrow parkways; requires careful curbside placement and frequent removal.
• Hawthorne: Adjacent to parks and conservation areas, with a mix of mature elms and honey locusts; environmental buffer zones are critical.
• Morton Park: Large lots, mature estates, and high wind exposure from prairie conditions lead to uneven leaf accumulation and the need for multiple passes.
• Parkholme: Close to floodplain areas, with heavy clay and alluvial soils; drainage and stormwater compliance are top priorities.
• Drexel: Urban infill with limited canopy, but compacted soils and alley collection routes require special attention to timing and placement.

Cicero Municipal Ordinances for Leaf Blowing Equipment Operation & Noise Control

Cicero regulates the use of leaf blowers and related equipment to minimize noise and air pollution. Equipment may typically be operated from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM on weekdays and 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Saturdays, with restrictions on Sundays and holidays. Commercial operators must be licensed, and all users must comply with noise ordinances and seasonal restrictions. For questions about equipment operation or to report violations, contact:

Cicero Building Department
4949 W. Cermak Road, Cicero, IL 60804
(708) 656-3600
Official Website: Cicero Building Department

By following Cicero’s municipal guidelines and state regulations, residents can protect their lawns, support ecological health, and ensure compliance with environmental standards throughout the fall leaf season.