Lombard Pruning Services

Our Pruning Process

Contact Lombard's Department of Public Works for Public Tree Permits & Pruning Debris Disposal

Pruning any tree within Lombard’s public right-of-way or parkways requires advance approval from the Department of Public Works. Residents and contractors must submit permit applications for public tree work, with a typical notice period of 7–14 days. Emergency pruning due to storm damage or public safety hazards may be authorized immediately, but must be reported to the department. For significant removals or work on heritage trees, public hearings and additional documentation may be required. Debris from public tree pruning must be disposed of through Lombard’s seasonal yard waste collection program, which accepts biodegradable paper bags and brush bundles (maximum 4-foot lengths). For large projects, coordination with municipal chipping and mulching services is available, and permits may be required for access to the composting facility. For more information or to apply for permits, contact:

Lombard Public Works Department
255 E. Wilson Ave., Lombard, IL 60148
Phone: (630) 620-5740
Official Website: Lombard Public Works Department

Understanding ANSI A300 Pruning Standards & Tree Health Assessment Requirements in Lombard

All pruning in Lombard should follow ANSI A300 Pruning Standards, which require the use of proper techniques such as the three-cut method for branches over 2 inches in diameter and prohibit harmful practices like topping, flush cuts, lion’s tailing, and over-thinning. A comprehensive tree health assessment by an ISA Certified Arborist is mandatory for structural pruning, including evaluation of branch structure, hazard identification (deadwood, co-dominant stems, decay), and pest or disease presence. Species-specific timing is critical: oaks and elms must be pruned only during dormancy to prevent disease, while maples and ashes require careful scheduling to minimize sap loss and pest risk. Arborists must maintain current certification, complete continuing education, and hold specialized credentials for risk assessment and municipal work.

Illinois Environmental Protection Agency Requirements for Pruning Near Waterways & Protected Areas

Pruning near Lombard’s waterways, wetlands, or conservation areas is regulated by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to protect water quality and sensitive habitats. Work in riparian zones requires coordination with watershed protection programs, implementation of sediment and erosion controls, and strict debris containment to prevent runoff. Site protection includes minimizing soil compaction in root zones, using temporary barriers on slopes, and staging debris away from drainage paths. Wildlife habitat protection is essential: seasonal restrictions apply during nesting periods (March–August), and cavity trees must be assessed for bat and bird use. For guidance on environmental compliance, contact:

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

Municipal Tree Protection Ordinances & Professional Standards in Lombard

Lombard’s municipal ordinances require permits for pruning or removing public trees and private trees above certain diameter thresholds (typically 6–8 inches DBH). Heritage or landmark trees receive special protection, with additional review and documentation. Permit applications are reviewed by the Community Development and Building Department, often in coordination with the Building Division for work near structures. Enforcement includes violation reporting, correction procedures, and penalties for non-compliance. Professional liability insurance (minimum $1 million coverage), workers’ compensation, and bonding are required for municipal contract work. For permit applications and ordinance details, contact:

Lombard Community Development and Building Department
255 E. Wilson Ave., Lombard, IL 60148
Phone: (630) 620-5749
Official Website: Lombard Community Development and Building Department

Seasonal Pruning Calendar, Wildlife Protection & Species-Specific Timing for Lombard's Climate Zone 5b

Lombard’s USDA Hardiness Zone 5b climate requires careful scheduling of pruning activities. Dormant season (February–March and December–February) is optimal for most species, especially oaks and elms, to prevent disease transmission. Post-flowering pruning (May–June) is recommended for spring-blooming trees like magnolia and crabapple. Summer pruning is limited to emergency hazard removal, while fall pruning should generally be avoided. Wildlife protection protocols require nesting bird surveys from March through August, visual inspections for active nests, and rescheduling if wildlife is present. Weather conditions, such as drought, excessive heat, or ice, must be considered to prevent stress and soil compaction. For up-to-date weather guidance, consult:

National Weather Service Chicago
333 W. University Dr., Romeoville, IL 60446
Phone: (815) 834-1435
Official Website: National Weather Service Chicago

Safety Regulations, Insurance Requirements & Utility Coordination for Pruning Operations in Lombard

All pruning operations must comply with ANSI Z133.1 Safety Standards, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hard hats, eye and face protection, chainsaw chaps, and fall protection for aerial work. Equipment must be inspected daily, with maintenance logs kept for chainsaws, climbing gear, and aerial lifts. Electrical safety is paramount: maintain a minimum 10-foot clearance from power lines, and only qualified line clearance arborists may work near utilities. Contractors must carry commercial general liability insurance (minimum $1 million per occurrence), workers’ compensation, and bonding for municipal contracts. Utility coordination is required before work near overhead or underground lines. For building-related safety and permit questions, contact:

Lombard Building Division
255 E. Wilson Ave., Lombard, IL 60148
Phone: (630) 620-5750
Official Website: Lombard Building Division

Integrated Pest Management & Disease Prevention Through Proper Pruning in Lombard

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in Lombard emphasizes strategic pruning to remove diseased wood, improve air circulation, and reduce pest habitat. Sanitation is critical: tools must be disinfected between trees using 70% isopropyl alcohol or a 10% bleach solution (1:9 ratio). Special protocols apply in areas with oak wilt or Dutch elm disease. Post-pruning inspections are recommended at 30 days and seasonally to monitor for secondary issues. Coordination with municipal disease monitoring and reporting systems is required, and pest outbreaks (emerald ash borer, Asian longhorned beetle) must be reported. For diagnostic support, consult:

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

Post-Pruning Debris Management & Illinois Organic Waste Requirements

Illinois law prohibits disposal of wood waste in household trash in many municipalities, including Lombard. All pruning debris must be processed through municipal yard waste programs, with options for on-site chipping, mulch utilization, sawmill coordination for valuable species, and composting for smaller material. Diseased wood (oak wilt, Dutch elm disease) requires immediate removal and landfill disposal, while invasive pest material (emerald ash borer) must follow quarantine protocols. Prompt cleanup is required to maintain public safety and protect storm drains. For pest management and disposal guidance, contact:

Illinois Department of Agriculture
801 E. Sangamon Ave., Springfield, IL 62702
Phone: (217) 782-2172
Official Website: Illinois Department of Agriculture

Protecting Lombard's Urban Forest Through Sustainable Pruning & Community Stewardship

Sustainable pruning is essential for the health and longevity of Lombard’s urban forest. Proper practices support structural integrity, reduce disease risk, and enhance storm resilience, while contributing to municipal canopy coverage goals and climate adaptation strategies. Community involvement is encouraged through educational workshops, citizen science tree inventories, and participation in stewardship programs. Long-term planning includes succession for aging trees, species diversification, and integration with green infrastructure. For information on forestry programs and community events, contact:

Lombard Forestry and Landscaping
255 E. Wilson Ave., Lombard, IL 60148
Phone: (630) 620-5740
Official Website: Lombard Forestry and Landscaping

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Lombard, IL?

Lombard’s neighborhoods each present unique pruning challenges:

• Downtown Lombard: Features mature oaks, maples, and elms, with historic district regulations requiring architectural review and coordination with the Planning Department. Overhead utilities and high pedestrian traffic necessitate careful scheduling and traffic control.
• Butterfield East: Predominantly residential with diverse species and active homeowner associations. Regulatory complexity includes HOA approval and strict maintenance standards. Proximity to wetlands requires environmental sensitivity.
• Hammerschmidt Area: Contains older trees, some with heritage designations. Storm damage history and underground utilities require specialized equipment and careful access planning.
• Highland Lakes: Newer developments with young trees and rain gardens. MS4 stormwater requirements and conservation easements apply, with community engagement in stewardship programs.
• Arboretum Estates: Large lots with mature trees, including ash and walnut. Emerald ash borer management is a priority, and sawmill coordination may be needed for valuable removals.
• Madison Meadows: Adjacent to parkland and waterways, requiring coordination with environmental protection zones and wildlife habitat surveys. Seasonal occupancy patterns influence scheduling.

Lombard Municipal Ordinances for Pruning Equipment Operation & Commercial Service Standards

Lombard regulates pruning equipment operation hours (7:00 AM–8:00 PM weekdays, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM weekends), with noise restrictions and decibel limits enforced in residential areas. Commercial tree services must hold a valid business license, register with the municipality, and provide proof of insurance (minimum $1 million general liability, workers’ compensation, and professional liability). Safety protocols require traffic control, ANSI Z133 compliance, and public notification for right-of-way work. Environmental standards mandate proper material handling, vehicle maintenance, and immediate cleanup, with documentation required for all waste disposal. For planning and zoning questions, contact:

Lombard Planning Services
255 E. Wilson Ave., Lombard, IL 60148
Phone: (630) 620-5749
Official Website: Lombard Planning Services

By following these comprehensive standards and municipal requirements, Lombard residents and professionals can ensure that pruning activities support public safety, environmental stewardship, and the long-term health of the community’s urban forest.