Arlington Heights Leaf Removal Services

Our Leaf Removal Process

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

Arlington Heights operates a comprehensive municipal leaf collection program each fall, typically running from mid-October through the first week of December. Collection days are scheduled by neighborhood, with most areas receiving weekly curbside pickup during peak leaf drop. Residents should place leaves in biodegradable paper yard waste bags or in loose piles at the curb, depending on the current collection phase and local policy. All materials must be set out by 7:00 AM on the scheduled day and kept at least three feet from storm drains, fire hydrants, and parked vehicles to ensure safe and efficient collection. The village enforces the Illinois yard waste landfill ban, so plastic bags are not permitted. For large volumes, residents may use the Transfer Station, which requires a permit and accepts leaves during posted hours. Brush and small branch collection is also available, with specific bundling requirements. For more information, contact:

Arlington Heights Department of Public Works
33 S. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights, IL 60005
(847) 368-5800
Official Website: Arlington Heights Public Works Services

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

Arlington Heights is characterized by heavy clay prairie soils, as identified by the USDA Web Soil Survey. These soils have slow drainage and are prone to compaction, which can significantly slow leaf decomposition. When leaves accumulate for more than two to three weeks, especially on clay soils, turfgrass can suffocate due to reduced air exchange and blocked sunlight. This creates anaerobic conditions that promote fungal diseases and root decline. In compacted urban soils, damage can occur even faster. While leaves can be beneficial in naturalized garden beds, conservation buffers, and wooded areas—where they support wildlife and soil health—removal is essential on maintained lawns to prevent turf loss. Mulch-mowing is effective only when leaf coverage is light and soils drain well; otherwise, removal is necessary to protect lawn health. For detailed soil information, visit the USDA Web Soil Survey.

Arlington Heights Environmental Compliance Guidelines for Leaf Disposal Near Protected Areas

Proper leaf disposal is critical near Arlington Heights’s streams, wetlands, and conservation areas. Illinois regulations require buffer zones to protect water quality and sensitive habitats. Leaves should be left in place only in designated naturalized areas, such as prairie restoration sites or wooded buffers, where they provide habitat and support nutrient cycling. In contrast, maintained lawns adjacent to protected areas must be kept clear to prevent nutrient runoff and preserve ecological balance. Coordination with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources is recommended for properties bordering protected lands. Residents should avoid disposing of leaves in or near water bodies to protect aquatic life and comply with state and local environmental standards. For questions about environmental health and compliance, contact:

Arlington Heights Health & Human Services Department
33 S. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights, IL 60005
(847) 368-5760
Official Website: Arlington Heights Health & Human Services Department

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

Leaves must never be raked or blown into streets, gutters, or storm drains in Arlington Heights. Under the Illinois EPA’s MS4 (Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System) program, the village is required to prevent organic debris from entering stormwater systems to protect local receiving waters, including Salt Creek and nearby wetlands. Leaf debris in storm drains can cause nutrient loading, oxygen depletion, and algae blooms, degrading water quality and harming aquatic ecosystems. Residents are encouraged to use curbside collection or composting options and to report any illegal dumping. For more on stormwater compliance, see the EPA NPDES and Illinois Environmental Protection Agency. For local stormwater questions, contact:

Arlington Heights Department of Public Works
33 S. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights, IL 60005
(847) 368-5800
Official Website: Arlington Heights Public Works Services

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

Arlington Heights enforces the Illinois yard waste landfill ban, requiring all fall leaves to be managed through municipal collection, composting, or approved disposal sites. The village educates residents on proper disposal methods, including the use of biodegradable paper bags and the importance of keeping leaves out of regular trash. Composting is encouraged where feasible, with setback requirements from property lines and water bodies to prevent runoff. The village’s compliance program includes regular outreach and clear guidelines for residents. For more information on state requirements, visit the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency and Clean Water Act. For local program details, contact:

Arlington Heights Planning & Community Development Department
33 S. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights, IL 60005
(847) 368-5200
Official Website: Arlington Heights Planning & Community Development Department

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

Arlington Heights’s urban canopy includes sugar maples, Norway maples, ash, oaks, hickories, elms, and honey locusts. Early October sees leaf drop from maples and ash, while oaks, hickories, and elms peak from mid-October through November. Bur oaks and American beech may hold leaves into December. The optimal removal window is after major drop events but before heavy rainfall or early snow, which can mat leaves and complicate collection. Multiple collection passes are recommended to match the sequential drop of different species. Residents should monitor National Weather Service Chicago forecasts for timing guidance and be prepared for freeze-thaw cycles that affect leaf matting. For tree identification and timing, consult the University of Illinois Extension.

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

After leaf removal, residents should assess lawns for compaction, bare spots, and disease. Late-season fertilization, applied according to University of Illinois Extension recommendations, helps strengthen turf for winter. Overseeding thin areas is possible if completed before soil temperatures drop below germination thresholds. The final mowing should leave grass at 2.5 to 3 inches to protect crowns during winter. All debris should be cleared to prevent mold and drainage issues, especially on clay soils. Planning for spring recovery includes monitoring for winter damage and early-season aeration if compaction is present. For lawn care guidance, contact:

University of Illinois Extension
Local County Office
(Check website for contact)
Official Website: University of Illinois Extension

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Arlington Heights, IL?

Arlington Heights features diverse neighborhoods, each with unique leaf management challenges:

• Scarsdale: Mature oaks and maples, heavy clay soils, historic homes with large lots, and proximity to Salt Creek require careful NPDES compliance and frequent collection.
• Ivy Hill: Dense parkway trees, moderate clay content, and newer development patterns mean high leaf volume and efficient curbside logistics.
• Stonegate: Urban fill soils with compaction, mixed species, and alley access complicate collection; close to parks and wetlands, requiring buffer management.
• Arlington Terrace: High wind exposure from open prairie, moderate tree density, and sloped lots lead to uneven leaf accumulation and runoff concerns.
• Downtown/Arlington Town Square: Limited tree canopy, compacted soils, and high-density development require coordination for collection in alleys and front streets.
• Greenbrier: Newer plantings, lighter leaf volume, but clay soils still slow decomposition; adjacent to conservation areas, so buffer compliance is important.
• Pioneer Park Area: Large estates, mature canopy, and proximity to parkland create high leaf loads and special collection needs.

Arlington Heights Municipal Ordinances for Leaf Blowing Equipment Operation & Noise Control

Arlington Heights regulates the operation of leaf blowers and related equipment to minimize noise and environmental impact. Equipment may typically be used from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM on weekdays and 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Saturdays, with restrictions on Sundays and holidays. Noise ordinances limit decibel levels, and commercial operators must be licensed. Seasonal restrictions may apply during peak collection periods. Residents should consult the Arlington Heights Municipal Code for detailed regulations and ensure compliance to avoid fines. For questions about equipment operation or permits, contact:

Arlington Heights Building & Life Safety Department
33 S. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights, IL 60005
(847) 368-5560
Official Website: Arlington Heights Building & Life Safety Department

By following Arlington Heights’s municipal guidelines and state environmental requirements, residents can protect their lawns, support local ecosystems, and contribute to cleaner water and a healthier community.