Montgomery Tree Removal Services

Our Tree Removal Process

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

Tree removal within Montgomery, Illinois is governed by a robust municipal framework designed to protect public and private trees, ensure community safety, and maintain the urban forest. The Village requires permits for removing trees from public rights-of-way and parkways, with thresholds typically set at 6 inches diameter at breast height (DBH) for protected species and 8 inches DBH for public property. Applications must be submitted to the Department of Public Works, which reviews requests, conducts site inspections, and issues written determinations. Emergency removals for hazardous trees are authorized through expedited protocols. Public notification and, for significant removals, hearings may be required. Heritage or landmark trees receive special protection, including replacement and bonding requirements. Enforcement includes penalties for unauthorized removals and a formal appeals process. For more information or to begin the permit process, contact:

Montgomery Department of Public Works
10 Civic Center Avenue, Montgomery, IL 60538
Phone: (630) 896-9241
Official Website: Montgomery Public Works Department

Understanding Tree Health Assessment & Professional Certification Requirements in Montgomery

Montgomery mandates that tree health assessments and risk evaluations be performed by International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborists. These professionals use standardized protocols to assess structural integrity, disease presence, pest infestations, and proximity risks. For formal risk assessments, the Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ) is required. Additional certifications may include Illinois arborist licensing, commercial pesticide applicator licenses, and crane operator credentials for large removals. Common local species such as oaks, maples, ash, and elms are susceptible to threats like emerald ash borer and oak wilt. Before removal, alternatives such as structural pruning, cabling, soil improvement, and integrated pest management should be considered. Documentation of findings and recommendations is required for permit applications, ensuring transparency and accountability in the process.

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

Tree removal activities in Montgomery must comply with Illinois Environmental Protection Agency 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 Montgomery's MS4 permit and EPA NPDES requirements, using best practices from 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, consult:

Illinois Environmental Protection Agency
1021 North Grand Avenue East, Springfield, IL 62794
Phone: (217) 782-3397
Official Website: Illinois Environmental Protection Agency

Municipal Tree Protection Ordinances & Public Tree Management in Montgomery

Montgomery enforces detailed tree protection ordinances, including permit thresholds for both private and public property, heritage tree designations, and replacement requirements. Permit applications must include site plans, arborist reports, and species identification. The review process involves coordination with the Building and Planning Departments, utility companies, and emergency services. Violations are subject to citations, stop-work orders, and corrective action timelines. Professional liability insurance (minimum $1 million coverage) and municipal bonding are required for contractors. The Village maintains a public tree inventory, conducts systematic inspections, and implements proactive hazard mitigation and community planting programs. For ordinance details and compliance support, contact:

Montgomery Community Development Department
10 Civic Center Avenue, Montgomery, IL 60538
Phone: (630) 896-8080
Official Website: Montgomery Community Development Department

Safety Regulations & Utility Coordination for Tree Removal Operations in Montgomery

Safety is paramount in all tree removal operations. The Montgomery Building Department oversees permits for removals affecting structures and ensures compliance with building codes. OSHA standards (29 CFR 1910.266, 1926 Subpart R) require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), certified rigging and climbing techniques, aerial lift safety, and fall protection systems. Utility coordination is critical: advance notification to electric, gas, and telecommunications providers is required, and JULIE (811) must be contacted at least 48 hours before root zone excavation. Clearance protocols for overhead lines and qualified line clearance arborists are mandatory. Public safety measures include street closure permits, barricades, signage, and coordination with the Montgomery Police Department. Contractors must carry general liability insurance (minimum $1 million), workers' compensation, and property damage coverage. For permit and safety information, contact:

Montgomery Building Department
10 Civic Center Avenue, Montgomery, IL 60538
Phone: (630) 896-8080
Official Website: Montgomery Building Department

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

Montgomery supports Illinois' 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 material specifications (logs, brush, stumps). Seasonal brush pickup is available, with size and weight limitations, and special collections are organized after storms. Wood waste diversion options include municipal chipping programs, sawmill partnerships, firewood distribution, and biomass energy facilities. Storm debris management follows FEMA guidelines, requiring separation of vegetative and construction debris. For disposal procedures and schedules, contact:

Montgomery Department of Public Works
10 Civic Center Avenue, Montgomery, IL 60538
Phone: (630) 896-9241
Official Website: Montgomery Public Works Department

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

Montgomery's urban forest management emphasizes tree replacement, species diversity, and community engagement. Replacement trees must meet species selection guidelines favoring native and climate-adapted varieties, with minimum size specifications (typically 2–3 inch caliper). Planting locations and spacing are regulated to ensure long-term health, and establishment care protocols are required. The Village aims for 30–40% canopy coverage and limits single species to promote 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 promoted. Long-term planning integrates succession strategies and climate adaptation. For stewardship opportunities, contact:

Montgomery Community Development Department
10 Civic Center Avenue, Montgomery, IL 60538
Phone: (630) 896-8080
Official Website: Montgomery Community Development Department

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Montgomery, IL?

Montgomery's neighborhoods each present unique tree removal challenges and regulatory considerations:

• Downtown Montgomery: Features mature oaks and maples, historic district review requirements, narrow streets limiting equipment access, and proximity to the Fox River necessitating erosion control and MS4 compliance.
• Lakewood Creek: Predominantly newer plantings with HOA approval processes, invasive species management needs, and stormwater infrastructure integration.
• Boulder Hill: Older tree populations with significant ash and elm, high emerald ash borer impact, utility conflicts, and seasonal occupancy patterns.
• Montgomery Crossing: Mix of heritage and replacement trees, deed restrictions, and traffic control needs on arterial roads.
• Blackberry Crossing: Proximity to wetlands and flood-prone areas, rare species habitat considerations, and strict erosion control requirements.
• Marviray Manor: Dense residential layout, parking restrictions, and limited crane setup space.
• Parkview Estates: Senior community with safety-focused removal standards, accessible equipment requirements, and community engagement in tree care.

Each area requires tailored approaches to tree health assessment, permit compliance, infrastructure protection, and environmental stewardship.

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

Montgomery 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. Contractors must obtain a business license, register with the Village, and provide proof of insurance (minimum $1 million liability, workers' compensation, property damage). Bonding is required for municipal contracts, 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 adherence to Illinois EPA and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 5 standards. Stormwater protection and erosion control are integral to all operations, supporting Montgomery's commitment to sustainable urban forestry.