Arlington Heights Tree Removal Services

Our Tree Removal Process

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

Tree removal in Arlington Heights is governed by a robust municipal framework designed to protect the community’s urban forest and ensure public safety. The Village’s tree protection ordinance requires a permit for the removal of any public tree or protected private tree, typically those with a diameter at breast height (DBH) of 6 inches or greater for certain species, and 8 inches or more for trees on public property. Applications must be submitted to the Department of Public Works, with a review process that includes site inspection, written justification for approval or denial, and public notification for significant removals. Emergency removals due to hazardous conditions are expedited, but must be reported promptly. The Department also oversees parkway tree protections, heritage tree designations, and enforces replacement and bonding requirements to ensure compliance. For more information or to begin the permit process, contact:

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

Understanding Tree Health Assessment & Professional Certification Requirements in Arlington Heights

Arlington Heights mandates that tree health assessments and risk evaluations be conducted by International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborists. These professionals use standardized criteria to assess structural integrity, disease presence, pest infestations, and proximity risks to structures or utilities. For formal risk assessments, the Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ) is required. Additional certifications may include Illinois arborist licensing, commercial pesticide applicator licenses for chemical treatments, and crane operator certifications for large removals. Common local species such as oaks, maples, ash, elm, and hackberry are susceptible to threats like emerald ash borer, oak wilt, and Dutch elm disease. Before removal, alternatives such as structural pruning, cabling, soil improvement, and integrated pest management should be considered. Professional liability insurance is required for all assessment and removal services to protect property owners and the public.

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

Tree removal activities in Arlington Heights must comply with Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations to safeguard 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, with consultation from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources for rare species. Compliance with the Clean Water Act and EPA NPDES stormwater permits is necessary, as is adherence to invasive species disposal protocols and quarantine requirements for pest-infested material. For regional oversight, consult U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 5.

Municipal Tree Protection Ordinances & Public Tree Management in Arlington Heights

Arlington Heights enforces detailed tree protection ordinances that set clear permit thresholds for both private and public property. Heritage or landmark trees, often defined by species and size, require special documentation and may trigger public hearings or additional review. Permit applications must include site plans, species identification, and justification for removal, with review timelines typically ranging from 7 to 14 days. Coordination with the Building and Planning Departments is required for removals affecting structures or significant site changes. Enforcement includes violation reporting, citation issuance, stop-work orders, and correction timelines. Professional liability insurance and municipal bonding are required for public contract work. The Village maintains a comprehensive tree inventory, systematic inspection programs, and proactive hazard identification, supporting community tree planting and urban forest master planning.

Safety Regulations & Utility Coordination for Tree Removal Operations in Arlington Heights

Safety is paramount in all tree removal operations, with oversight from the Building Department for projects near structures. Compliance with OSHA standards (29 CFR 1910.266, 1926 Subpart R) is mandatory, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), rigging and climbing certifications, and aerial lift safety protocols. Utility coordination is required, with advance notification to electric, gas, water, and telecommunications providers. The JULIE (811) system mandates a minimum 48-hour notice before root zone excavation, and only qualified line clearance arborists may work near power lines. Public safety measures include street closure permits, traffic control plans, barricades, and pedestrian protection. Insurance requirements include a minimum $1 million general liability policy, workers’ compensation, and property damage coverage. For building-related concerns, contact:

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

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

Arlington Heights 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 must use designated composting facilities or transfer sites, adhering to permit requirements, fee structures, and material specifications (logs, brush, stumps). Seasonal brush pickup is available, with size and placement restrictions, and special collections are organized after storms. Wood waste diversion options include municipal chipping programs, sawmill partnerships for valuable species, firewood processing, and biomass energy generation. Emergency storm debris management may involve FEMA coordination and regional mutual aid. For program details, contact:

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

Protecting Arlington Heights's Urban Forest Through Replacement Requirements & Community Stewardship

Tree replacement is a cornerstone of Arlington Heights’s urban forest management. Replacement species must be native or climate-adapted, with size specifications typically requiring 2–3 inch caliper trees. Planting locations and spacing are regulated to ensure long-term health, and establishment care protocols with survival guarantees are enforced. In-lieu fees may be assessed if on-site planting is not feasible. The Village aims for 30–40% canopy coverage and promotes species diversity to enhance climate resilience. 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 prioritized. Long-term planning integrates succession strategies and green infrastructure with sustainability goals. For community programs, contact:

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

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Arlington Heights, IL?

Arlington Heights encompasses diverse neighborhoods, each with unique tree removal considerations:

• Downtown Arlington Heights: Features mature oaks and maples, historic district review requirements, and limited equipment access due to narrow streets and high pedestrian traffic. Public hearings may be required for removals affecting streetscapes.
• Scarsdale: Known for heritage elms and large lot sizes, with conservation easements and homeowner association approval processes. Stormwater management and MS4 compliance are critical due to proximity to wetlands.
• Ivy Hill: Predominantly ash and hackberry, with high emerald ash borer pressure. Utility conflicts are common, and traffic control is needed on arterial roads.
• Stonegate: Features older trees and steep slopes, requiring erosion control and careful equipment staging. Flood-prone areas necessitate additional environmental safeguards.
• Greenbrier: Mix of young and mature trees, invasive species concentrations, and active community engagement in tree planting. Parking restrictions and alley access affect logistics.
• Arlington Market: Commercial area with business district impacts, seasonal occupancy, and coordination with property managers for safety and access.
• Terramere: Newer development with diverse species, HOA regulations, and storm debris management needs after severe weather events.

Each area requires tailored permit procedures, infrastructure coordination, and environmental protections to ensure safe, compliant, and sustainable tree removal.

Arlington Heights Municipal Ordinances for Tree Removal Equipment Operation & Commercial Service Standards

Arlington Heights regulates 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 by municipal ordinance. Commercial tree services must obtain a business license, register as contractors, and provide proof of insurance (minimum $1 million liability, workers’ compensation, property damage). Bonding is required for municipal contract work, and arborist certification must be verified. Safety protocols include traffic control, proper equipment operation, and public notification. Environmental compliance mandates debris containment, vehicle maintenance, immediate cleanup, and documentation of waste disposal. Coordination with Illinois Environmental Protection Agency and local ordinances ensures stormwater protection and erosion control. For licensing and compliance information, contact:

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