Addison Leaf Removal Services

Our Leaf Removal Process

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

Addison's Department of Public Works (DPW) coordinates a comprehensive leaf collection program each fall, typically running from mid-October through the first week of December. Collection days are assigned by neighborhood, with most areas receiving weekly curbside pickup during peak season. Residents should place leaves at the curb by 7:00 AM on their scheduled day, ensuring piles are at least three feet from storm drains, fire hydrants, and parked vehicles. Addison allows both loose leaf collection (where vacuum trucks are available) and biodegradable paper bagged leaves, in compliance with the Illinois yard waste landfill ban. For bulk disposal, the Transfer Station accepts leaves and yard waste during posted hours; permits may be required for large loads. Brush and small branch collection is also available, but materials must be separated from leaf piles. For the most current schedule, guidelines, and permit information, contact:

Addison Department of Public Works
1491 Jeffrey Drive, Addison, IL 60101
(630) 620-2020
Official Website: Addison Department of Public Works

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

Addison's landscape is dominated by heavy clay prairie soils, as identified by the USDA Web Soil Survey. These soils are slow to drain and prone to compaction, which means that leaf accumulation can quickly create anaerobic conditions detrimental to turf health. When leaves cover lawns for more than two to three weeks, especially in poorly draining clay or compacted urban soils, turfgrass suffocation, fungal diseases, and blocked sunlight can occur. In contrast, loess-covered uplands and river bottom alluvial soils in some Addison neighborhoods may allow for slightly faster decomposition, but the risk of lawn damage remains high with heavy leaf cover. Mulch-mowing is effective only when leaf coverage is light and soils are well-drained; otherwise, removal is necessary to prevent rapid turf decline. Leaves can be left in naturalized garden beds, conservation buffer zones, and wooded areas to support soil health and wildlife, but maintained lawns require regular removal for optimal health. For more on local soil conditions, visit the USDA Web Soil Survey.

Addison Environmental Compliance Guidelines for Leaf Disposal Near Protected Areas

Proper leaf disposal is essential near Addison's streams, wetlands, and conservation areas to protect sensitive habitats and comply with state and federal regulations. Buffer zones must be maintained along waterways, and leaves should not be deposited within these areas to prevent nutrient runoff and habitat disruption. In conservation zones, natural leaf retention supports wildlife and soil health, but in maintained lawns, removal is required. Coordination with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources ensures that protected areas are managed according to best ecological practices. Residents are encouraged to consult with local environmental services for guidance on buffer management and wildlife considerations. For more information, contact:

Addison Community Development Department
1 Friendship Plaza, Addison, IL 60101
(630) 693-7530
Official Website: Addison Community Development Department

For state-level guidance, visit the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

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

Addison participates in the Illinois EPA Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) program, which requires strict management of organic debris to protect local water quality. Leaves left in streets or near storm drains can wash into Addison's stormwater system, contributing to nutrient loading, oxygen depletion, and algae growth in receiving waters such as Salt Creek and nearby wetlands. Residents must keep leaves out of gutters and storm drains, using only approved curbside collection methods. The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) regulations are enforced locally to prevent waterway contamination. For more on stormwater compliance, see the EPA NPDES and Clean Water Act. For local enforcement and reporting, contact:

Addison Department of Public Works
1491 Jeffrey Drive, Addison, IL 60101
(630) 620-2020
Official Website: Addison Department of Public Works

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

Illinois law prohibits the disposal of yard waste, including leaves, in landfills. Addison enforces this through its municipal collection program, requiring residents to use biodegradable paper bags or participate in loose leaf collection where available. The village provides educational materials on proper disposal, composting alternatives, and setback requirements for leaf piles. Residents may also utilize the Transfer Station for bulk drop-off, following local permit and material guidelines. These efforts support statewide organic waste reduction goals and help maintain compliance with the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency. For health and environmental questions, contact:

DuPage County Health Department
111 N County Farm Rd, Wheaton, IL 60187
(630) 682-7400
Official Website: DuPage County Health Department

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

Addison's urban canopy features a mix of sugar maples, Norway maples, ash, oaks (red, white, bur), 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 National Weather Service Chicago (NWS Chicago) provides up-to-date forecasts, helping residents plan removal after major drop events but before heavy rain or early snow, which can mat leaves and complicate collection. Multiple collection passes are recommended to match the sequential drop patterns of local species. Illinois' climate can bring early freezes or late-season storms, so flexibility in scheduling is key. For tree identification and timing advice, consult the University of Illinois Extension and University of Illinois Extension Plant Clinic.

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

After leaf removal, lawns should be assessed for compaction, bare spots, and disease. Late-season fertilization (using a slow-release, nitrogen-rich formula) is best applied in early November, following University of Illinois Extension guidelines. Overseeding thin areas is possible if completed before the first hard frost. For winter, mow lawns to a final height of 2.5 to 3 inches, clear all debris, and address drainage issues—especially important in Addison's clay soils to prevent winterkill and spring disease. Early spring care should focus on gentle raking, soil aeration, and gradual fertilization to support recovery from Illinois' winter dormancy. For more information, contact:

Addison Building Department
1 Friendship Plaza, Addison, IL 60101
(630) 693-7530
Official Website: Addison Building Department

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Addison, IL?

Addison's neighborhoods each present unique leaf management challenges:

• Green Meadows: Mature oaks and maples create high leaf volume; heavy clay soils and proximity to Salt Creek require strict NPDES compliance and frequent collection.
• Army Trail Highlands: Newer development with moderate tree cover, but compacted urban soils mean rapid turf damage if leaves accumulate; front collection is standard.
• Stonehedge Estates: Large lots with diverse species, including late-dropping bur oaks; sloped terrain and wind exposure increase leaf drift and collection complexity.
• Wesglen Park: Dense parkway trees and small lot sizes; alley access complicates collection logistics; close to wetlands, so buffer management is critical.
• Addison Industrial District: Sparse tree cover but large impervious surfaces; stormwater management is a priority to prevent leaf debris entering drains.
• Lake Manor: Adjacent to retention ponds and conservation areas; high wildlife value means leaves are retained in buffer zones but removed from lawns.
• Old Town Addison: Historic area with mature canopy, mixed soil types, and narrow streets; collection requires coordination to avoid blocking traffic and drains.

Addison Municipal Ordinances for Leaf Blowing Equipment Operation & Noise Control

Addison regulates the operation of leaf blowers and related equipment to minimize noise and environmental impact. Equipment may typically be operated 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 may require special licensing. Residents should avoid using blowers near storm drains and must comply with seasonal restrictions on burning or disposal. For full ordinance details and compliance assistance, contact:

Addison Department of Public Works
1491 Jeffrey Drive, Addison, IL 60101
(630) 620-2020
Official Website: Addison Department of Public Works

For additional regulatory information, visit the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 5.

By following Addison's municipal guidelines and state regulations, residents can protect their lawns, support local ecosystems, and contribute to cleaner waterways throughout the community.