River Forest Tree Removal Services

Our Tree Removal Process

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

Tree removal in River Forest is governed by a robust municipal framework designed to protect the community’s urban forest. The River Forest Department of Public Works (DPW) oversees all tree removal activities on public property and within parkways, requiring permits for the removal of trees with a diameter at breast height (DBH) of 6 inches or greater for protected species, and 8 inches or more for public trees. Permit applications must be submitted in advance, typically with a 7-14 day notice, and may require a site inspection. Significant removals, such as those involving heritage or landmark trees, may trigger public hearing procedures and additional documentation. Emergency removals due to hazardous conditions are subject to expedited protocols, but must be reported promptly. The DPW coordinates with municipal forestry programs, manages public notifications, and enforces compliance through written determinations, bond obligations, and penalty structures for violations. For more information or to begin the permit process, contact:

River Forest Department of Public Works
400 Park Avenue, River Forest, IL 60305
Phone: (708) 366-8500
Official Website: River Forest Public Works Department

Understanding Tree Health Assessment & Professional Certification Requirements in River Forest

River Forest mandates that all tree health assessments and risk evaluations be conducted by International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborists. These professionals utilize standardized risk rating systems to assess structural integrity, disease presence, pest infestations, and proximity hazards. Additional credentials, such as the Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ), are required for formal risk assessments, and Illinois arborist licensing is necessary where applicable. For large removals, crane operator certifications and commercial pesticide applicator licenses may also be required. Common local species include oaks, maples, ash, elm, and hackberry, with prevalent threats such as emerald ash borer, oak wilt, and Dutch elm disease. Before removal, alternative treatments like structural pruning, cabling, soil improvement, and integrated pest management should be considered. Professional liability insurance is required for all assessment and removal services to ensure public safety and compliance.

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

Tree removal operations in River Forest 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 for large cavity trees are mandated to protect wildlife, in accordance with the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act and in consultation with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Stormwater management must align with River Forest’s MS4 permit requirements and the Clean Water Act, with best practices outlined in the Illinois Urban Manual. Invasive species, such as buckthorn and emerald ash borer-infested material, must be disposed of following state quarantine protocols. For further guidance, visit the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 5.

Municipal Tree Protection Ordinances & Public Tree Management in River Forest

River Forest enforces detailed tree protection ordinances that set specific permit thresholds for both private and public property. Heritage or landmark trees, often defined by species and DBH, require special documentation and may be subject to public hearings. Permit applications must include site plans, species identification, and justification for removal, with review timelines established by municipal code. Coordination with the Building and Planning Departments is required for removals affecting structures or significant site alterations. Enforcement mechanisms include violation reporting, citation issuance, stop-work orders, and correction timelines. Professional liability standards mandate commercial general liability insurance (minimum $1 million), workers’ compensation, and property damage coverage. Public tree management is supported by a municipal tree inventory, systematic inspections, hazard identification, and community planting initiatives, all guided by an urban forest master plan. For planning-related inquiries, contact:

River Forest Planning Department
400 Park Avenue, River Forest, IL 60305
Phone: (708) 366-8500
Official Website: River Forest Community Development Guide

Safety Regulations & Utility Coordination for Tree Removal Operations in River Forest

Safety is paramount in all tree removal operations, with oversight from the River Forest Building Department for projects affecting structures. Compliance with OSHA standards (29 CFR 1910.266, 1926 Subpart R) is required, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), rigging and climbing certifications, and aerial lift safety protocols. Utility coordination is critical: advance notification to electric, gas, water, and telecommunications providers is required, and JULIE (811) must be contacted at least 48 hours before root zone excavation. Clearance protocols for overhead power lines and qualified line clearance arborist certification are mandatory for work near utilities. Public safety measures include street closure permits, traffic control plans, barricades, and coordination with the River Forest Police Department. Insurance requirements include a minimum $1 million general liability policy, workers’ compensation, and property damage coverage. For permit and safety information, contact:

River Forest Building Department
400 Park Avenue, River Forest, IL 60305
Phone: (708) 714-3552
Official Website: River Forest Building Department

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

River Forest supports Illinois’s organic waste diversion goals by prohibiting tree debris in household trash and promoting municipal composting and wood waste programs. The village operates a composting facility and transfer site with specific hours, permit requirements, and accepted material guidelines (logs, brush, stumps). Seasonal brush pickup is available, typically requiring 4-foot lengths and 50-pound bundles, with advance scheduling for curbside placement. Special collections are organized after storm events, and wood waste diversion options include municipal chipping, sawmill coordination, firewood processing, and biomass partnerships. Storm debris management follows FEMA protocols, requiring separation of vegetative and construction debris and coordination with regional mutual aid programs. Residents are encouraged to utilize these services to ensure compliance with Illinois EPA waste reduction initiatives and to support sustainable urban forest management.

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

Tree replacement is a cornerstone of River Forest’s urban forest management, with requirements specifying native or climate-adapted species, minimum caliper sizes (typically 2-3 inches), and proper planting locations. Replacement trees must be cared for according to establishment protocols, and in-lieu fees may apply if on-site planting is not feasible. The village aims for a 30-40% urban canopy, promotes species diversity (no more than 10% of a single species), and integrates climate resilience into planning. Community involvement is encouraged through volunteer planting programs, Arbor Day events, educational workshops, and citizen science initiatives. Preservation alternatives, such as health maintenance, structural support, and integrated pest management, are promoted to extend the life of heritage trees. Long-term planning includes succession strategies, climate adaptation, and integration with green infrastructure and walkability initiatives.

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout River Forest, IL?

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

• Central River Forest: Mature oaks and maples, many heritage trees, strict permit and public hearing requirements, narrow streets limit equipment access, and proximity to schools increases safety protocols.
• North River Forest: High density of ash trees affected by emerald ash borer, frequent storm damage, MS4 stormwater requirements, and close proximity to Thatcher Woods and Des Plaines River necessitate erosion control.
• Historic District: Architectural review for tree removals, conservation easements, and deed restrictions, with additional coordination required for landmark properties and narrow alleys affecting crane setup.
• South River Forest: Mix of older and newer plantings, invasive species concentrations (buckthorn, honeysuckle), utility conflicts, and parking restrictions for equipment.
• Concordia University Area: Multi-story buildings, limited access for large equipment, seasonal occupancy patterns, and high community engagement in tree preservation.
• Lake Street Corridor: Business district impacts, traffic control requirements, and coordination with commercial property owners for replacement standards and debris management.
• Edgewater and Park District Areas: Proximity to wetlands and flood-prone zones, rare species habitat considerations, and additional erosion control measures for steep slopes.

Each area requires tailored permit procedures, infrastructure planning, and community engagement to ensure safe, compliant, and environmentally responsible tree removal.

River Forest Municipal Ordinances for Tree Removal Equipment Operation & Commercial Service Standards

River Forest regulates tree removal equipment operation to minimize community disruption and environmental impact. Permitted operating hours are typically 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM on weekdays and 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM on weekends, with noise restrictions enforced through municipal ordinances. Commercial tree services must obtain a business license, register with the municipality, and provide proof of insurance (minimum $1 million general liability, workers’ compensation, and property damage). Bonding is required for municipal contract work, and arborist certification must be verified and maintained through continuing education. Safety protocols include traffic control, proper equipment operation, OSHA compliance, and public notification. Environmental compliance standards mandate proper material handling, immediate cleanup, vehicle maintenance, and documentation of waste disposal. Coordination with the Illinois EPA and local environmental ordinances ensures stormwater protection and erosion control throughout all operations.