Palos Heights Tree Removal Services

Our Tree Removal Process

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

Tree removal in Palos Heights is governed by a robust municipal framework designed to protect the community’s urban forest. The city’s tree protection ordinance requires a permit for the removal of any public tree or private tree exceeding 6-8 inches in diameter at breast height (DBH), especially for protected or heritage species. Applications must be submitted to the Department of Public Works, with a typical advance notice of 7-14 days. Significant removals may require a public hearing, and emergency removals for hazardous trees are subject to expedited protocols. The Department of Public Works oversees permit review, site inspections, and public notifications, and coordinates with municipal forestry programs and utility companies for safe operations. Enforcement includes written determinations, bond obligations, and penalties for non-compliance. For more information or to begin the permit process, contact:

Palos Heights Department of Public Works
7607 W College Dr, Palos Heights, IL 60463
Phone: (708) 361-1806
Official Website: Palos Heights Department of Public Works

Understanding Tree Health Assessment & Professional Certification Requirements in Palos Heights

Palos Heights mandates that tree health assessments and risk evaluations be conducted by professionals holding the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborist credential. For formal risk assessments, the Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ) is required. Arborists must evaluate structural integrity, disease presence, pest infestations (such as emerald ash borer and Asian longhorned beetle), and storm damage. Common local species include oaks, maples, ash, elm, and hackberry, each with unique vulnerabilities. Before removal, alternatives like structural pruning, cabling, soil improvement, and integrated pest management should be considered. All assessments must be documented, and professionals must carry commercial liability insurance. This ensures that tree removal decisions are based on sound science and community safety.

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

Tree removal activities in Palos Heights 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 are mandatory for large or cavity trees, in line with Illinois Department of Natural Resources and federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act requirements. Stormwater management must align with Palos Heights’s MS4 permit and EPA NPDES standards. Invasive species, like buckthorn and pest-infested ash, require special disposal and may be subject to quarantine. For further guidance, consult:

Illinois Environmental Protection Agency
1021 North Grand Avenue East, Springfield, IL 62702
Phone: (217) 782-3397
Official Website: Illinois Environmental Protection Agency

Municipal Tree Protection Ordinances & Public Tree Management in Palos Heights

Palos Heights enforces specific tree protection regulations, including permit thresholds for both private and public property. Heritage or landmark trees, often defined by species and diameter, require additional documentation and may trigger public hearings. Permit applications are reviewed by the Department of Public Works, with coordination from the Building and Planning Departments for projects affecting structures or land use. Enforcement includes citation and penalty structures, stop-work orders, and correction timelines. Professional liability insurance (minimum $1 million coverage) is required for all contractors. The city maintains a public tree inventory, conducts systematic inspections, and implements proactive hazard identification and community planting initiatives. For questions about ordinances or public tree management, contact:

Palos Heights Planning and Zoning Commission
7607 W College Dr, Palos Heights, IL 60463
Phone: (708) 361-1806
Official Website: Palos Heights Planning and Zoning Commission

Safety Regulations & Utility Coordination for Tree Removal Operations in Palos Heights

Safety is paramount in all tree removal operations. The Palos Heights Building Department oversees permits for removals affecting structures and ensures compliance with building codes. OSHA standards (29 CFR 1910.266, 1926 Subpart R) require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), certified rigging and climbing practices, and aerial lift safety. Utility coordination is critical: advance notification to electric, gas, and telecommunications providers is required, and JULIE (811) must be contacted at least 48 hours before root zone excavation. Clearance protocols for overhead lines and qualified line clearance arborists are mandatory. Public safety measures include street closure permits, barricades, and coordination with the Palos Heights Police Department. Contractors must maintain $1 million minimum liability insurance. For permit and safety inquiries, contact:

Palos Heights Building Department
7607 W College Dr, Palos Heights, IL 60463
Phone: (708) 361-1806
Official Website: Palos Heights Building Department

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

Palos Heights 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 city’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 storms. Wood waste diversion options include municipal chipping, sawmill partnerships, firewood programs, and biomass energy initiatives. Storm debris management may involve FEMA coordination and regional mutual aid. For details on debris disposal and collection schedules, contact:

Palos Heights Department of Public Works
7607 W College Dr, Palos Heights, IL 60463
Phone: (708) 361-1806
Official Website: Palos Heights Department of Public Works

Protecting Palos Heights's Urban Forest Through Replacement Requirements & Community Stewardship

Tree replacement is a cornerstone of Palos Heights’s urban forest management. Replacement species must be native or climate-adapted, with a typical minimum caliper of 2-3 inches. Planting locations and spacing are regulated, and establishment care protocols ensure survival. In-lieu fees may apply if on-site planting is not feasible. The city aims for 30-40% canopy coverage and promotes species diversity (no more than 10% of a single species). Community involvement is encouraged through volunteer planting, Arbor Day events, and educational workshops. Preservation alternatives, such as fertilization, structural support, and integrated pest management, are promoted for long-term forest health. For stewardship opportunities, contact:

Palos Heights Economic and Community Development
7607 W College Dr, Palos Heights, IL 60463
Phone: (708) 361-1806
Official Website: Palos Heights Economic and Community Development

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Palos Heights, IL?

Palos Heights features diverse neighborhoods, each with unique tree removal considerations:

• Old Palos: Mature oaks and elms, historic district review, narrow streets, and overhead utility conflicts. Heritage trees require special permits and public hearings.
• Westgate Valley: High ash population with emerald ash borer impact, proximity to wetlands, and MS4 stormwater requirements. Equipment access is limited by steep slopes.
• Lake Katherine Area: Landmark trees, conservation easements, and rare species habitat. Strict erosion control and environmental review are required.
• Colonial Heights: Predominantly maples and hackberry, HOA approval needed, and parking restrictions for equipment. Seasonal occupancy affects scheduling.
• Ishnala: Invasive buckthorn concentrations, storm damage history, and traffic control needs on arterial roads. Crane operations may be necessary for large removals.
• Navajo Hills: Mixed species, business district impacts, and coordination with commercial property owners. Disposal site proximity is favorable.
• Forest Ridge: Senior community safety needs, pedestrian protection, and public notification requirements. Multi-story buildings may require specialized equipment.

Palos Heights Municipal Ordinances for Tree Removal Equipment Operation & Commercial Service Standards

Palos Heights regulates tree removal equipment operation to minimize community disruption and ensure safety. Permitted hours are typically 7:00 AM–8:00 PM on weekdays and 9:00 AM–6:00 PM on weekends, with noise restrictions enforced. Contractors must obtain a business license, register with the city, and provide proof of $1 million minimum liability insurance, workers’ compensation, and property damage coverage. Bonding is required for municipal contracts, and arborist certification must be verified. Safety protocols include traffic control, proper equipment operation, and public notification. Environmental compliance mandates debris containment, vehicle maintenance, immediate cleanup, and adherence to Illinois EPA and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 5 standards. For licensing and compliance information, contact:

Palos Heights Department of Public Works
7607 W College Dr, Palos Heights, IL 60463
Phone: (708) 361-1806
Official Website: Palos Heights Department of Public Works