Lombard Tree Removal Services

Our Tree Removal Process

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

Tree removal in Lombard is governed by a robust municipal framework designed to protect the community’s urban forest and ensure public safety. The Village of Lombard requires permits for the removal of any tree within public rights-of-way, with specific thresholds—typically 6 inches diameter at breast height (DBH) for protected species and 8 inches DBH for public property trees. Applications must be submitted to the Department of Public Works, which reviews requests, conducts site inspections, and issues written determinations. Emergency removals due to hazardous conditions may be authorized immediately, but must be reported promptly. Public notification and, for significant removals, public hearings may be required. Heritage or landmark trees receive special protection, often requiring additional documentation and replacement plantings. Enforcement includes penalties for unauthorized removals and bond requirements to ensure compliance. For all permit and oversight questions, contact:

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

Understanding Tree Health Assessment & Professional Certification Requirements in Lombard

Lombard mandates that tree health assessments and risk evaluations be performed by professionals holding International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborist credentials. For formal risk assessments, the Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ) is required. Arborists must evaluate structural integrity (decay, cavities, cracks), disease presence (such as oak wilt or Dutch elm disease), pest infestations (notably emerald ash borer), and storm damage. Documentation must be thorough and submitted with permit applications. Alternative treatments—like structural pruning, cabling, or integrated pest management—should be considered before removal. All contractors must carry commercial general liability insurance (minimum $1 million), workers’ compensation, and property damage coverage. For large removals, crane operator certification is also required. These standards ensure that only qualified professionals oversee Lombard’s tree care, supporting both public safety and long-term forest health.

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

Tree removal activities in Lombard must comply with Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations to protect water quality and sensitive habitats. Contractors must coordinate with watershed protection programs and implement erosion control measures to prevent sediment and debris from entering streams, rivers, and wetlands. Before removal, nesting bird surveys (March–August) and bat habitat assessments for large cavity trees are required, in accordance with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Erosion control includes installing sediment barriers, stabilizing sites after stump removal, and protecting riparian zones. Stormwater management must align with Lombard’s MS4 permit and Illinois EPA best practices. Invasive species, such as buckthorn or pest-infested ash, must be disposed of according to state quarantine protocols. 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 Lombard

Lombard’s tree protection ordinances establish clear permit thresholds for both private and public property, with additional requirements for heritage or landmark trees based on species and size. Permit applications must include detailed site plans and arborist reports, and are reviewed by the Department of Public Works in coordination with the Building and Planning Departments. Utility companies are notified for line clearance, and emergency protocols are in place for storm damage. Enforcement includes reporting mechanisms, citations, stop-work orders, and correction timelines. Contractors must maintain liability insurance and, for public work, municipal bonding. The Village maintains a GIS-based tree inventory, conducts systematic inspections, and implements proactive hazard tree identification and community planting programs. For ordinance details and public tree management, 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

Safety Regulations & Utility Coordination for Tree Removal Operations in Lombard

Safety is paramount in all tree removal operations. The Lombard Building Department oversees permits for removals affecting structures, ensuring compliance with building codes and utility coordination. OSHA standards (29 CFR 1910.266, 1926 Subpart R) require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), certified rigging and climbing practices, aerial lift safety, and fall protection systems. Utility coordination includes advance notification to electric, gas, and telecommunications providers, with JULIE (811) notification required at least 48 hours before root zone excavation. Clearance from overhead power lines must be maintained, and only qualified line clearance arborists may work near utilities. Public safety measures include street closure permits, barricades, signage, and coordination with the Lombard Police Department. Contractors must carry at least $1 million in liability insurance and workers’ compensation for all employees. For safety and permit questions, contact:

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

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

Lombard 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 can utilize the Village’s composting facility, which accepts logs, brush, and stumps within specified size and load limits. Seasonal brush pickup is available, with requirements for curbside placement and advance scheduling. Special collections are organized after storm events. Wood waste may be diverted for chipping, mulch production, sawmilling, or firewood distribution, and partnerships with biomass facilities support energy generation. Storm debris management follows FEMA guidelines, with debris separation and contractor coordination for large-scale events. For debris disposal procedures and facility hours, contact:

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

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

Lombard’s urban forest management emphasizes tree replacement, species diversity, and community engagement. Replacement trees must meet species selection guidelines favoring native and climate-adapted varieties, with minimum size specifications (typically 2–3 inch caliper). Planting locations and spacing are regulated to ensure long-term health, and establishment care protocols are required. In-lieu fees may be assessed if on-site planting is not feasible. The Village aims for 30–40% canopy coverage and limits single species to 10% of the total population. Community involvement is encouraged through volunteer planting events, educational workshops, and citizen science initiatives. Preservation alternatives, such as health maintenance and structural support for heritage trees, are promoted. Long-term planning integrates climate adaptation and green infrastructure. For stewardship opportunities, 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 tree removal challenges and regulatory considerations:

• Downtown Lombard: Features mature oaks and maples, historic district review requirements, narrow streets limiting equipment access, and high pedestrian traffic necessitating robust safety measures.
• Butterfield East: Predominantly ash and hackberry, with emerald ash borer infestations and HOA approval processes; proximity to wetlands requires erosion control and MS4 compliance.
• Hammerschmidt Area: Mix of aging elms and newer plantings, frequent storm damage, utility conflicts, and parking restrictions for large equipment.
• Manor Hill: Contains several landmark trees, conservation easements, and deed restrictions; steep slopes require specialized erosion control.
• Highland Hills: Invasive species concentrations (buckthorn, honeysuckle), limited street access, and business district impacts requiring coordination with local businesses.
• Arboretum Estates: Large lots with heritage trees, flood-prone areas, and rare species habitat; crane operations may be needed for removals.
• Westmore-Meyers: Dense residential area, multi-story buildings, parking and access limitations, and seasonal occupancy patterns affecting scheduling.

Each area requires careful consideration of tree population characteristics, regulatory complexity, infrastructure integration, environmental sensitivities, community expectations, and logistical access.

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

Lombard’s municipal ordinances regulate tree removal equipment operation to minimize community disruption and ensure safety. Permitted operating hours are typically 7:00 AM–8:00 PM on weekdays and 9:00 AM–6:00 PM on weekends, with noise restrictions enforced in residential areas. Contractors must obtain a business license, register with the municipality, and provide proof of insurance (minimum $1 million liability, workers’ compensation, and 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, immediate cleanup, and adherence to Illinois EPA and local environmental ordinances, including stormwater protection and erosion control. For licensing and compliance information, contact:

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

By following Lombard’s comprehensive regulatory framework, residents and professionals can ensure that tree removal activities support public safety, environmental protection, and the long-term health of the community’s urban forest.