Highland Park Landscape Services

Contact Your Local Highland Park Public Works or Parks Department for Green Waste Info

Highland Park residents benefit from robust municipal green waste management programs designed to protect the Lake Michigan watershed and comply with state environmental regulations. Seasonal yard waste collection typically runs from April through November, with pickups scheduled weekly. Accepted materials include grass clippings, leaves, small branches, and other organic debris, which must be placed in paper yard waste bags or rigid containers—plastic bags are not permitted. Residents may also utilize the city’s yard waste drop-off site, which requires a valid resident sticker and accepts brush bundles (tied with twine, up to 4 feet long). Commercial landscapers must adhere to disposal requirements and may be subject to fees. Composting initiatives provide free mulch and compost to residents, supporting sustainable landscaping. Disposing of lawn waste in streets, alleys, or storm drains is strictly prohibited to prevent water quality violations under the Illinois Environmental Protection Act (415 ILCS 5), safeguarding local waterways and Lake Michigan.

Public Works Department
1150 Half Day Rd, Highland Park, IL 60035
Phone: (847) 432-0807
Official Website: Public Works Department

Park District of Highland Park
636 Ridge Road, Highland Park, IL 60035
Phone: (847) 831-3810
Official Website: Park District of Highland Park

Lawn Care Regulations & Permits in Highland Park, IL

Lawn care in Highland Park is governed by a comprehensive regulatory framework that ensures environmental protection and community standards. The Illinois Fertilizer Act (505 ILCS 80) restricts phosphorus use on established lawns unless a soil test indicates deficiency or for new lawns, and mandates buffer zones near water bodies. Pesticide applications require commercial applicator licensing through the Illinois Department of Agriculture - Pesticide Regulations, with notification and posting requirements under the Illinois Pesticide Act (415 ILCS 60). Outdoor watering is regulated by local ordinances, often following odd/even address schedules and time-of-day restrictions to conserve water. Noise ordinances limit equipment operation to 7:00 AM–9:00 PM on weekdays and 8:00 AM–9:00 PM on Saturdays, with further restrictions on Sundays and holidays. Commercial lawn care providers must register with the city, maintain liability insurance, and ensure worker certifications.

Community Development Department
1150 Half Day Rd, Highland Park, IL 60035
Phone: (847) 432-0808
Official Website: Community Development Department

Water Services
1150 Half Day Rd, Highland Park, IL 60035
Phone: (847) 432-0807
Official Website: Water Services

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve in Highland Park, IL?

Highland Park encompasses a diverse range of neighborhoods, each with unique lawn care considerations shaped by local soil, climate, and community factors:

• Ravinia: Characterized by mature tree canopies, historic homes, and clay-rich soils with drainage challenges. Kentucky bluegrass and fine fescues thrive in shaded areas, but compaction and alkaline pH require regular aeration and soil amendments.
• Braeside: Proximity to forest preserves and wetlands necessitates compliance with buffer zone regulations and supports native plant integration. Loam-clay soils and moderate sun exposure influence turf selection.
• Sheridan Road Corridor: Large lots, high property values, and HOA guidelines demand meticulous maintenance. Full sun exposure increases heat stress, while underground utilities require careful planning for irrigation and landscaping.
• Highlands: Newer developments with shallow topsoil and heavy clay subsoils face drainage and compaction issues. Tall fescue blends are recommended for drought tolerance.
• Downtown/Central Highland Park: Smaller lots, urban microclimates, and historic district requirements shape lawn care practices. Shade from buildings and mature trees impacts grass selection.
• Hybernia and Fort Sheridan: Planned communities with conservation easements and proximity to Lake Michigan require adherence to strict environmental guidelines and stormwater management practices.

Partnering With Highland Park’s Environmental Commission for Sustainable Landscaping

The Highland Park Environmental Commission plays a vital role in guiding sustainable landscaping and environmental stewardship. Coordination with the commission ensures compliance with wetland protection requirements, buffer zone regulations, and fertilizer/pesticide restrictions in sensitive areas. Sustainable landscaping practices promoted include:

• Organic lawn care methods
• Native plant and prairie species integration
• Rain garden installation for stormwater management
• Proper mulching and grasscycling (returning clippings to the lawn)

Stormwater management is prioritized to prevent nutrient runoff into the Lake Michigan watershed, supporting MS4 compliance and the Clean Water Act. The commission also collaborates with the Cook County Forest Preserve District and local initiatives on tree planting, invasive species removal, and community education.

Environmental Programs / Sustainability
1707 St Johns Avenue, Highland Park, IL 60035
Phone: (847) 432-0800
Official Website: Environmental Programs / Sustainability

Top Highland Park Lawn Problems (and How We Solve Them)

Lawns in Highland Park face several region-specific challenges due to local soil, climate, and environmental conditions:

• Heavy clay soil compaction
• Alkaline pH (7.0–8.5)
• Road salt damage (especially near major roads)
• Grub infestations (Japanese beetles, masked chafers)
• Fungal diseases (snow mold, brown patch, dollar spot)
• Drought and heat stress in summer
• Weed invasions (crabgrass, dandelion, nutsedge)

Science-based solutions include:

• Core aeration (at least twice annually) to relieve compaction
• Soil testing through University of Illinois Extension and sulfur amendments for pH adjustment
• Overseeding with drought-tolerant tall fescue blends
• Integrated pest management and disease-resistant turf cultivars
• Proper mowing, watering, and fertilization practices
• Installation of French drains or subsurface drainage for poorly drained areas
• Use of organic mulch and grasscycling to improve soil health

What Makes Lawns in Highland Park Different From the Rest of Illinois?

Highland Park’s lawns are shaped by unique regional characteristics:

• USDA Hardiness Zone: 5a–6a, with a growing season of 180–200 days
• Soil Geology: Drummer silty clay loam and similar series, high clay content, alkaline pH, and poor drainage
• Climate: Continental extremes—cold winters, hot summers, and Lake Michigan’s moderating influence
• Pest Pressure: High incidence of Japanese beetles, masked chafers, and billbugs
• Historical Patterns: Post-WWII suburban development, mature tree canopies, and a shift from pure Kentucky bluegrass to mixed-species lawns
• Microclimate Factors: Urban heat island effects, prairie winds, and minimal elevation changes affecting drainage

These factors require tailored horticultural practices and regulatory compliance to maintain healthy, resilient lawns.

Supporting Local Events in Highland Park With Lawn Expertise

Professional lawn care services play a key role in supporting Highland Park’s vibrant community life:

• Preparation and maintenance of village greens and town squares for summer festivals and farmers markets
• Athletic field care for youth sports leagues (Little League, soccer, football)
• Park beautification for public events and celebrations
• Collaboration with the Parks & Recreation Department and Park District
• Emergency storm cleanup and debris removal after severe weather
• Community education initiatives, including Arbor Day and Earth Day events, garden club workshops, and school partnerships

Park District of Highland Park
636 Ridge Road, Highland Park, IL 60035
Phone: (847) 831-3810
Official Website: Park District of Highland Park

Eco-Friendly Landscaping Backed by Highland Park’s Green Initiatives

Highland Park’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its green initiatives and environmental programs:

• Alignment with Tree City USA and local climate action plans
• Water conservation through smart irrigation controllers, rain sensors, and drought-tolerant turf selections
• Organic lawn care practices, compost topdressing, and pollinator-friendly landscaping
• Equipment electrification to reduce emissions and noise
• Grasscycling to minimize landfill waste and support soil health
• Native plant landscaping to sequester carbon and support biodiversity

These efforts help reduce the community’s carbon footprint and promote a healthier, more resilient urban environment.

Environmental Programs / Sustainability
1707 St Johns Avenue, Highland Park, IL 60035
Phone: (847) 432-0800
Official Website: Environmental Programs / Sustainability

Proudly Serving These Streets and Areas in Highland Park

Lawn care services in Highland Park cover a wide range of neighborhoods, subdivisions, and landmarks, organized for clarity:

• Downtown/Central: Central Ave, St Johns Ave, Green Bay Rd, Laurel Ave, Elm Place, Highland Park Metra Station
• North: Braeside, Edgewood, Old Elm, Northmoor, Hybernia, Fort Sheridan, Park Avenue West
• South: Ravinia, Roger Williams Ave, Rosewood Beach area, Sheridan Rd corridor
• East: Lake Michigan shoreline, Moraine Park, Rosewood Beach, Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve
• West: Highlands, Deerfield Rd, Ridge Rd, Skokie Valley Rd, Sunset Park, Sherwood Forest
• Major Subdivisions: Hybernia, Sherwood Forest, Braeside, Ravinia, Fort Sheridan, Northmoor, Highlands
• Historic Districts: Ravinia, Braeside, Central Highland Park
• Landmarks: Highland Park High School, Ravinia Festival, Rosewood Beach, Sunset Woods Park, Highland Park Hospital, Metra stations
• Special Considerations: Conservation easements in Hybernia and Fort Sheridan, HOA guidelines in Sherwood Forest, historic district requirements in Ravinia and Braeside

This comprehensive coverage ensures that all residents benefit from science-based, environmentally responsible lawn care tailored to Highland Park’s unique suburban landscape.