Flossmoor Tree Removal Services

Our Tree Removal Process

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

Tree removal in Flossmoor is governed by a robust municipal framework designed to protect the community’s urban forest and ensure public safety. The Village requires permits for the removal of any tree within the public right-of-way or parkway, and for protected species on private property exceeding 6-8 inches in diameter at breast height (DBH). Applications must be submitted to the Department of Public Works, which reviews each request, conducts site inspections, and issues written determinations. Emergency removals due to hazardous conditions may be authorized immediately, but must be reported to the Department. Public notification and, for significant removals, public hearings may be required. Heritage or landmark trees receive special protection, often requiring replacement plantings and compliance bonds. Enforcement includes penalties for unauthorized removals and a formal appeal process for denied permits. The Department also coordinates with municipal forestry programs, capital improvement projects, and community engagement initiatives.

Department of Public Works
2800 Flossmoor Road, Flossmoor, IL 60422
Phone: (708) 957-4100
Official Website: Public Works Department

Understanding Tree Health Assessment & Professional Certification Requirements in Flossmoor

Flossmoor 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. Arborists must also hold Illinois licensing and, where chemical treatments are considered, commercial pesticide applicator credentials. Large removals may require certified crane operators. Common local species include oaks, maples, ash, elm, and hackberry, with threats such as emerald ash borer, oak wilt, and Dutch elm disease. Before removal, alternatives like structural pruning, cabling, soil improvement, and integrated pest management are considered. Professional liability insurance is required for all assessment and removal services.

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

Tree removal activities in Flossmoor 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 during and after removal, especially on slopes or near waterways. Nesting bird surveys (March–August) and bat habitat assessments are mandated for large or cavity trees, in compliance with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and in consultation with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Stormwater management must align with Flossmoor’s MS4 permit and the Illinois Urban Manual. Invasive species, such as buckthorn and pest-infested ash, must be disposed of according to state quarantine protocols.

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

Illinois Department of Natural Resources
One Natural Resources Way, Springfield, IL 62702
Phone: (217) 782-6302
Official Website: Illinois Department of Natural Resources

Municipal Tree Protection Ordinances & Public Tree Management in Flossmoor

Flossmoor’s tree protection ordinances establish clear thresholds for permits, typically requiring approval for removal of public trees or protected species over 6-8 inches DBH. Heritage and landmark trees are identified based on size, age, and species, and are subject to additional review and replacement requirements. Permit applications must include site plans, species identification, and justification for removal. The review process involves coordination with the Building and Planning Departments, utility companies, and, for significant removals, public hearings. Enforcement includes citation and penalty structures, stop-work orders, and correction timelines. Professional liability insurance and municipal bonding are required for contractors. The Village maintains a public tree inventory, conducts systematic inspections, and implements proactive hazard identification and community planting programs.

Planning & Zoning Department
2800 Flossmoor Road, Flossmoor, IL 60422
Phone: (708) 957-4100
Official Website: Planning & Zoning Department

Safety Regulations & Utility Coordination for Tree Removal Operations in Flossmoor

Safety is paramount in all tree removal operations. The Flossmoor 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, traffic control plans, and coordination with the Police Department. Contractors must carry a minimum of $1 million in general liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage.

Building Department
2800 Flossmoor Road, Flossmoor, IL 60422
Phone: (708) 957-4101
Official Website: Building Department

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

Flossmoor supports Illinois’s organic waste diversion goals by prohibiting tree debris in household trash and promoting municipal composting and wood waste programs. Residents and contractors must use designated composting facilities or transfer sites, adhering to operating hours, permit requirements, and material specifications. Municipal collection services offer seasonal brush pickup (typically 4-foot lengths, 50-pound bundles), curbside placement, and special storm debris collection. Wood waste diversion options include municipal chipping programs, sawmill partnerships for valuable species, firewood processing, and biomass energy generation. Storm debris management involves emergency collection, FEMA coordination, and debris separation protocols. All disposal activities must comply with Illinois EPA regulations and local environmental ordinances.

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

Tree replacement is a cornerstone of Flossmoor’s urban forest management. Replacement species must be native or climate-adapted, with size specifications (usually 2-3 inch caliper) and proper spacing. Establishment care, survival guarantees, and in-lieu fees are required where on-site planting is not feasible. The Village 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 programs, Arbor Day events, and educational workshops. Preservation alternatives include health maintenance, structural support for heritage trees, integrated pest management, and root zone protection during construction. Long-term planning addresses succession for aging trees and climate adaptation.

Community Development Department
2800 Flossmoor Road, Flossmoor, IL 60422
Phone: (708) 957-4100
Official Website: Planning & Zoning Department

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Flossmoor, IL?

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

• Old Flossmoor: Mature oaks and maples, historic district review, narrow streets, overhead utility conflicts, and high property value standards.
• Ballantrae: Newer plantings, invasive species management, HOA approval processes, and stormwater management near wetlands.
• Heather Hill: Large ash populations affected by emerald ash borer, MS4 stormwater requirements, and traffic control on arterial roads.
• Flossmoor Hills: Steep slopes, erosion control needs, proximity to creeks, and equipment access limitations.
• Braeburn: Heritage tree concentrations, deed restrictions, parking limitations, and community engagement in replanting.
• Flossmoor Park: Mixed-age tree canopy, business district impacts, seasonal occupancy, and coordination with public events.
• Baythorne: Multi-story buildings, crane operation requirements, and disposal site proximity challenges.

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

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

Flossmoor’s municipal ordinances regulate equipment operation hours (typically 7:00 AM–8:00 PM weekdays, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM weekends) and enforce noise restrictions. Commercial tree services 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, debris containment, vehicle maintenance, and immediate cleanup. All activities must align with Illinois EPA and local environmental standards, including stormwater protection and erosion control measures.

For more information on environmental regulations, visit the Clean Water Act, EPA NPDES, and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 5.