Northbrook Leaf Removal Services

Our Leaf Removal Process

Contact Northbrook's Department of Public Works for Seasonal Leaf Collection & Curbside Pickup Schedules

Northbrook’s Department of Public Works (DPW) manages a comprehensive seasonal leaf collection program designed to support residents in maintaining healthy lawns and complying with Illinois environmental regulations. The annual curbside leaf collection typically begins in mid-October and continues through the first week of December, with neighborhood-specific pickup days published each fall. During peak season, collection occurs weekly, and additional passes may be scheduled after major leaf drop events. Residents may place loose leaves at the curb (not in the street) by 7:00 AM on their scheduled collection day, ensuring piles are at least 10 feet from storm drains, fire hydrants, and parked vehicles. For those using biodegradable paper bags, collection is available through the end of the season, in compliance with the Illinois yard waste landfill ban. Northbrook’s Transfer Station accepts bulk leaf drop-off with a valid permit during posted hours, and accepts only leaves, grass clippings, and small branches. For more information, contact:

Northbrook Department of Public Works
655 Huehl Road, Northbrook, IL 60062
Phone: (847) 272-4711
Official Website: Northbrook Public Works Facility

Understanding Leaf Accumulation Impact on Northbrook's Heavy Clay Prairie Soils & Lawn Health

Northbrook’s landscape is dominated by heavy clay prairie soils, as identified by the USDA Web Soil Survey, which are known for slow drainage and compaction. When leaves accumulate for more than two to three weeks, especially on these poorly draining soils, turfgrass can quickly become suffocated due to reduced air exchange and blocked sunlight. In compacted urban soils, damage may occur even faster, leading to anaerobic conditions and increased risk of fungal diseases. While mulch-mowing is effective for light leaf coverage on well-drained areas, heavy accumulations must be removed from maintained lawns to prevent turf loss. Conversely, leaves can be left in naturalized garden beds, conservation buffer zones, and wooded or prairie restoration sites, where they support soil health and wildlife. For detailed soil information, visit the USDA Web Soil Survey.

Northbrook Environmental Compliance Guidelines for Leaf Disposal Near Protected Areas

Proper leaf disposal is essential for protecting Northbrook’s sensitive natural resources, including the West Fork of the North Branch Chicago River, Techny Basin, and local wetlands. Illinois regulations require buffer zone management near streams, lakes, and wetlands, prohibiting leaf piles within designated setbacks to prevent nutrient runoff and habitat disruption. Leaves should be retained in conservation areas to support wildlife and natural nutrient cycling, but must be removed from maintained lawns and areas adjacent to water bodies. Coordination with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources ensures compliance with protected area guidelines. For questions about environmental compliance, contact:

Northbrook Community Development and Environmental Services
1225 Cedar Lane, Northbrook, IL 60062
Phone: (847) 664-4050
Official Website: Northbrook Development and Planning Services Department

Keep Leaves Out of Streets & Storm Drains: Northbrook's NPDES Stormwater Compliance Requirements

Northbrook participates in the Illinois EPA’s Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) program, which mandates strict controls on organic debris entering stormwater systems. Leaves left in streets or near storm drains can wash into the West Fork of the North Branch Chicago River and other local waterways, contributing to nutrient loading, oxygen depletion, and harmful algae blooms. Residents must keep leaves off pavement and out of gutters, placing them only on the parkway for collection. These practices help Northbrook meet NPDES permit requirements and protect water quality under the Clean Water Act. For more information on stormwater compliance, contact:

Northbrook Health Department
1225 Cedar Lane, Northbrook, IL 60062
Phone: (847) 664-4010
Official Website: Northbrook Public Health Services

Northbrook's Implementation of Illinois Organic Waste Management Requirements for Fall Leaves

Northbrook enforces the Illinois yard waste landfill ban by requiring all leaves collected curbside or at the Transfer Station to be composted or mulched. Residents must use biodegradable paper bags for bagged collection, and loose leaves are vacuumed and transported to regional composting facilities. Educational outreach ensures residents understand proper disposal methods, setback requirements, and alternatives such as backyard composting. The DPW provides guidance on composting best practices and maintains compliance with state and local ordinances. For more information on state regulations, visit the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 5.

Optimal Leaf Removal Timing for Northbrook's Tree Species & Illinois Fall Weather Patterns

Northbrook’s urban canopy features a diverse mix of sugar maples, Norway maples, oaks (red, white, bur), ash, honey locust, and elms. Early October sees the drop of maples and ash, while oaks, hickories, and elms shed leaves from mid-October through November. Bur oaks and American beech may hold leaves into December. The National Weather Service Chicago provides up-to-date forecasts, helping residents schedule removal after major drop events but before heavy rain or early snow, which can mat leaves and complicate collection. Multiple collection passes are recommended in neighborhoods with dense tree cover. Illinois’ variable fall weather, including freeze-thaw cycles, further underscores the importance of timely removal.

Post-Leaf Removal Lawn Recovery & Winter Preparation in Northbrook's Climate Zone

After leaf removal, residents should assess lawns for thin or damaged areas, especially where heavy leaf cover persisted. Late-season fertilization, applied according to University of Illinois Extension recommendations, supports root health and spring green-up. Overseeding may be possible in early fall after leaf removal, but should be completed before the first hard frost. Final mowing should leave grass at 2.5 to 3 inches to protect crowns during winter. Clearing debris and improving drainage, particularly in clay-heavy soils, helps prevent winterkill and disease. For additional guidance, consult the University of Illinois Extension and University of Illinois Extension Plant Clinic.

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Northbrook, IL?

Northbrook’s neighborhoods each present unique leaf management challenges:

• East Northbrook (Techny Basin area): Mature oaks and maples, heavy clay soils, proximity to wetlands and river, strict NPDES compliance, large lots with front collection.
• Downtown Northbrook: Dense parkway trees (elms, honey locust), compacted urban soils, alley and front collection, high volume of leaves, limited storage space.
• Northbrook Estates: Large lots, mature canopy (oaks, maples), moderate slopes, clay-loam soils, wind-driven leaf accumulation, front collection.
• Mission Hills: Newer development, mixed species, improved drainage, smaller lots, less leaf volume, but rapid accumulation due to wind exposure.
• Stonegate: Historic area, mature trees, high clay content, close to river, environmental setbacks, alley access challenges.
• Charlemagne: Suburban development, moderate tree cover, loam-clay soils, standard collection logistics, some park adjacency.
• Glenbrook Countryside: Rural edge, prairie wind exposure, scattered mature trees, variable soils, larger setbacks from water bodies.

Northbrook Municipal Ordinances for Leaf Blowing Equipment Operation & Noise Control

Northbrook regulates the use of leaf blowers and other equipment to minimize noise and environmental impact. Gas and electric blowers may be operated from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM on weekdays and 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Saturdays; use is typically prohibited on Sundays and holidays. Commercial operators must comply with licensing requirements and observe all seasonal restrictions. Equipment must not be used to blow leaves into streets or storm drains, and noise levels must remain within municipal limits. For ordinance details or permit questions, contact:

Northbrook Building Department
1225 Cedar Lane, Northbrook, IL 60062
Phone: (847) 664-4050
Official Website: Northbrook Building Permits

By following Northbrook’s municipal guidelines and state environmental regulations, residents can protect their lawns, support local ecosystems, and contribute to the health of the community’s waterways and natural resources.