Lombard Lawn Aeration Services

Our Lawn Aeration Process

Contact Lombard's Department of Public Works for Soil Core Disposal & Aeration Debris Management

Proper management of soil cores and aeration debris is essential for maintaining both your lawn’s health and Lombard’s environmental standards. After core aeration, it is generally recommended to leave the soil plugs on the lawn, as they naturally decompose within 2-4 weeks, returning valuable organic matter and nutrients to the soil. This process improves soil structure and supports healthy turf growth. However, if you prefer to remove the cores, Lombard’s municipal yard waste program provides guidelines for collection. Residents should use biodegradable paper bags or loose collection methods, in compliance with Illinois’ yard waste landfill ban. For questions about yard waste pickup schedules or transfer station procedures, contact:

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

Be sure to time core removal before heavy rain events to prevent debris from washing into storm drains. Leaving cores to break down naturally is the most environmentally friendly option, but municipal resources are available for those who need alternative disposal solutions.

Understanding Soil Compaction in Lombard's Prairie Clay & Glacial Till Soils

Lombard’s landscape is shaped by prairie clay soils and glacial till, as identified by the USDA Web Soil Survey. These soils are typically high in clay content, which leads to slow drainage and a tendency to compact under foot traffic, vehicles, and construction. Compacted soils restrict root growth, reduce water infiltration, and limit nutrient uptake, making aeration a critical practice for local lawns. Indicators that your property may need aeration include:

• Standing water after rain events
• Hard, compacted soil that is difficult to penetrate
• Thinning grass or bare patches
• Moss or weed growth replacing turf
• Heavy thatch buildup
• Poor drainage during Illinois storms

Because clay soils are prevalent in Lombard, annual or even biannual aeration is often necessary, especially in high-traffic areas. Sandy soils, which are less common locally, may require less frequent aeration. For more information on local soil types and best management practices, consult the University of Illinois Extension.

Lombard Environmental Compliance Guidelines for Core Aeration Near Protected Areas

When performing core aeration near Lombard’s parks, streams, or conservation areas, it’s important to follow environmental compliance guidelines to protect sensitive habitats. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency and Illinois Department of Natural Resources require buffer zones around water bodies and wetlands to prevent soil and debris from entering these areas. Erosion control measures, such as silt fences or straw wattles, may be necessary during aeration operations. Additionally, avoid aeration during wildlife breeding seasons (April-July) to protect ground-nesting birds and other species. For site-specific guidance, contact:

Lombard Environmental Programs
255 E. Wilson Ave., Lombard, IL 60148
Phone: (630) 620-5740
Official Website: Lombard Environmental Programs

Coordination with local compliance officers ensures that your aeration project supports both healthy lawns and local ecosystems. Always check for updated regulations before starting work near protected areas.

Lombard's Implementation of Illinois Soil Health Regulations for Aeration Operations

Lombard adheres to the Illinois Environmental Protection Act and local ordinances to promote soil health and sustainable landscaping. The Village encourages practices that enhance soil structure, reduce runoff, and protect water quality. Core aeration is recognized as a best management practice for improving infiltration and reducing compaction, especially in urban areas with heavy clay soils. The Lombard Community Development and Building Department provides resources on soil health regulations and permits for landscaping activities. For questions about compliance or soil health initiatives, contact:

Lombard Community Development and Building Department
255 E. Wilson Ave., Lombard, IL 60148
Phone: (630) 620-5740
Official Website: Lombard Community Development and Building Department

Following these guidelines not only benefits your lawn but also contributes to the overall environmental quality of Lombard and the greater DuPage County area.

Post-Aeration Stormwater Management in Compliance with Lombard's NPDES Program

After aeration, managing stormwater runoff is crucial to prevent soil erosion and protect local waterways. Lombard participates in the EPA NPDES (National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System) program as part of the Illinois EPA’s MS4 (Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System) initiative. This program requires property owners and contractors to implement best practices that minimize sediment and debris entering storm drains. Key recommendations include:

• Allowing soil cores to decompose naturally on the lawn
• Avoiding aeration immediately before heavy rain (check National Weather Service Chicago forecasts)
• Using erosion control measures near slopes or water bodies
• Promptly sweeping up debris from sidewalks and driveways

For more information on stormwater compliance, contact:

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

These steps help maintain compliance with federal and state water quality standards, including the Clean Water Act.

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Lombard, IL?

Lombard features a variety of neighborhoods, each with unique soil and landscaping challenges:

• Downtown Lombard & Historic Districts: Older neighborhoods with mature trees, compacted clay soils, and high foot traffic. Annual aeration is recommended to address compaction and root competition.
• Butterfield East & West: Subdivisions with newer construction, moderate clay content, and some sandy loam areas. Less compaction but still benefit from regular aeration, especially in high-use lawns.
• Prairie Path Corridor: Proximity to the Illinois Prairie Path and Great Western Trail means higher moisture and potential for runoff. Buffer zones and careful debris management are essential.
• Yorktown Area: Commercial corridors with heavy vehicle and pedestrian traffic, leading to severe soil compaction. Multiple aerations per year may be needed.
• Madison Meadows & Terrace View: Near parks and water bodies, these areas require special attention to stormwater management and compliance with buffer regulations.
• Highland Lakes: Features more loamy soils and better drainage, so aeration frequency can be reduced, but attention to thatch and root competition is still important.

Each neighborhood’s unique mix of soil type, traffic, tree coverage, and proximity to water bodies influences the timing and frequency of aeration. For site-specific recommendations, consult the University of Illinois Extension Plant Clinic.

Lombard Municipal Ordinances for Core Aeration Equipment Operation & Noise Control

Lombard enforces municipal ordinances to regulate the operation of lawn care equipment, including core aerators. Equipment may typically be operated between 7:00 AM and 7:00 PM on weekdays, 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Saturdays, with restrictions on Sundays and holidays. Noise control ordinances are in place to minimize disturbances in residential areas. For permit requirements or questions about compliance, contact:

Lombard Building Division
255 E. Wilson Ave., Lombard, IL 60148
Phone: (630) 620-5740
Official Website: Lombard Building Division

Following these guidelines ensures that aeration activities are conducted responsibly and in harmony with community standards. Always check for updates to local ordinances before scheduling aeration services.

For additional resources on soil health, environmental compliance, and best practices for Illinois lawns, visit the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 5 and the University of Illinois Extension.