Berwyn Tree Removal Services

Our Tree Removal Process

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

Tree removal in Berwyn, Illinois is governed by a robust municipal framework designed to protect the community’s urban forest and ensure public safety. Any removal of trees within public rights-of-way, including parkways and city-owned property, typically requires a permit from the Department of Public Works. Permits are generally required for trees with a diameter at breast height (DBH) of 6 inches or greater for protected species, and 8 inches or more for public trees. The process includes submitting a permit application, advance notice (usually 7-14 days), and, for significant removals, public hearings may be scheduled. Emergency removals due to hazardous conditions are expedited, but must be reported promptly. The Department of Public Works oversees permit review, site inspections, and coordinates with municipal forestry programs for compliance and public notification. For more information or to begin the permit process, contact:

Berwyn Department of Public Works
6700 26th Street, Berwyn, IL 60402
Phone: (708) 749-4700
Official Website: Berwyn Department of Public Works

Understanding Tree Health Assessment & Professional Certification Requirements in Berwyn

Berwyn requires that tree health assessments and risk evaluations be conducted by professionals holding International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborist credentials. For formal risk assessments, the Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ) is recommended. 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 of findings is required for permit applications. Additional certifications may be necessary, including Illinois arborist licensing, commercial pesticide applicator licenses, and crane operator certifications for large removals. Before removal, alternatives such as structural pruning, cabling, soil improvement, and integrated pest management should be considered. Liability insurance and professional bonding are required for all contractors performing tree work in Berwyn.

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

Tree removal activities in Berwyn 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 are mandated for large or cavity trees, in accordance with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Stormwater management must align with Berwyn’s MS4 permit and EPA NPDES requirements, using best practices from the Illinois Urban Manual. Invasive species, such as buckthorn or pest-infested ash, must be disposed of following 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 Berwyn

Berwyn’s tree protection ordinances establish clear thresholds for removal permits, with special provisions for heritage or landmark trees based on species and size. Permit applications require detailed documentation, including site plans and arborist reports, and are reviewed by the Department of Public Works in coordination with the Building and Planning Departments. Public notification and, when necessary, hearings are part of the process for significant removals. Enforcement includes citation and penalty structures for unpermitted work, stop-work orders, and correction timelines. Contractors must carry commercial general liability insurance (minimum $1 million), workers’ compensation, and property damage coverage. The city maintains a public tree inventory, conducts systematic inspections, and implements proactive hazard mitigation and community planting programs. For regulatory details, contact:

Berwyn Planning Department
6700 26th Street, Berwyn, IL 60402
Phone: (708) 788-2660
Official Website: Berwyn Planning and Zoning Commission

Safety Regulations & Utility Coordination for Tree Removal Operations in Berwyn

Safety is paramount in all tree removal operations in Berwyn. The Building Department oversees permits for removals affecting structures and ensures compliance with building codes. OSHA standards (29 CFR 1910.266, 1926 Subpart R) must be followed, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hard hats, eye and hearing protection, and chainsaw-resistant clothing. Rigging and climbing certifications are required for aerial work, and all aerial lift operators must be certified. Utility coordination is critical: JULIE (811) notification is required at least 48 hours before root zone excavation, and a minimum 10-foot clearance from power lines must be maintained. Qualified line clearance arborists are needed for work near utilities. Public safety measures include street closure permits, barricades, and coordination with the police for traffic management. Contractors must maintain insurance and bonding as specified by the city. For more information, contact:

Berwyn Building Department
6700 26th Street, Berwyn, IL 60402
Phone: (708) 788-2660
Official Website: Berwyn Building Department

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

Berwyn 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 operating hours, permit requirements, and accepted material specifications (logs, brush, stumps). Municipal collection services offer seasonal brush pickup (typically 4-foot lengths, 50-pound bundles), curbside placement, and special storm debris collection. Wood waste diversion options include municipal chipping programs, sawmill partnerships for valuable species, firewood distribution, and biomass energy generation. Storm debris management involves emergency collection, FEMA coordination, and separation of vegetative from construction debris. For program details, contact:

Berwyn Department of Public Works
6700 26th Street, Berwyn, IL 60402
Phone: (708) 749-4700
Official Website: Berwyn Department of Public Works

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

Tree replacement is a key component of Berwyn’s urban forest management. Replacement species must be native or climate-adapted, with a typical minimum caliper of 2-3 inches. Planting locations and spacing are specified to ensure long-term health, and establishment care protocols (watering, mulching, staking) are required. In-lieu fees may be assessed if on-site planting is not feasible. The city aims for 30-40% canopy coverage and promotes species diversity (no more than 10% of any single species). 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 community forestry programs, contact:

Berwyn Community Development Department
6700 26th Street, Berwyn, IL 60402
Phone: (708) 795-6850
Official Website: Berwyn Affordable Housing Program

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Berwyn, IL?

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

• Depot District: Features mature oaks and elms, with historic district review requirements and narrow streets limiting equipment access. Overhead utilities and high pedestrian traffic require careful planning and traffic control.
• Gold Coast: Home to large, aging maples and heritage trees, with strict permit procedures and public hearing requirements. Proximity to Salt Creek necessitates erosion control and MS4 compliance.
• South Berwyn: Predominantly ash and hackberry, with emerald ash borer infestations and invasive buckthorn. Storm debris history requires robust emergency response protocols.
• Proksa Park Area: Contains parkway trees and public green spaces, with coordination needed for recreational events and community engagement. Flood-prone areas require special debris management.
• Cermak Road Corridor: Business district with limited access for large equipment, parking restrictions, and high community expectations for aesthetics and safety.
• North Berwyn: Mix of residential and multi-story buildings, requiring crane operations and careful utility coordination. Seasonal occupancy patterns affect scheduling.
• Historic Bungalows District: Architectural review and conservation easements add regulatory complexity, with mature landscaping restricting equipment and requiring detailed planning.

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

Berwyn’s municipal ordinances regulate tree removal equipment operation to minimize community disruption and ensure safety. 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 by decibel limits. Contractors must obtain a business license, register with the city, 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 OSHA compliance. Environmental standards mandate debris containment, vehicle maintenance, immediate cleanup, and documentation of waste disposal. All operations must comply with Illinois Environmental Protection Agency and local environmental ordinances, including stormwater and erosion control measures. For ordinance details, contact:

Berwyn Department of Public Works
6700 26th Street, Berwyn, IL 60402
Phone: (708) 749-4700
Official Website: Berwyn Department of Public Works