Matteson Dethatching Lawn Services

Our Dethatching Lawn Process

Contact Matteson’s Department of Public Works for Dethatched Material Disposal & Yard Waste Collection

Proper disposal of dethatched lawn material is essential for both environmental compliance and neighborhood cleanliness in Matteson. The Village operates a comprehensive yard waste collection program, typically running from April through November, which accepts dethatched thatch, grass clippings, and leaves. Residents must use biodegradable paper bags—plastic bags are strictly prohibited—or rigid containers (usually up to 32 gallons) for curbside pickup. Commercial contractors may be subject to additional permit or fee requirements. For larger quantities, Matteson provides a yard waste drop-off site with set operating hours; residents may need a permit or sticker for access, and commercial users should verify current fee structures. Always separate thatch from other yard waste if required by local guidelines. For up-to-date collection schedules, accepted materials, and drop-off site details, contact:

Matteson Department of Public Works
4900 Village Commons, Matteson, IL 60443
Phone: (708) 748-1411
Official Website: Matteson Department of Public Works

Understanding Thatch Buildup in Matteson’s Heavy Clay Soils

Matteson’s lawns are predominantly established on Drummer silty clay loam and similar heavy clay soil series, as identified by the USDA Web Soil Survey. These soils are poorly drained, with a high water table in spring and an alkaline pH (7.0-8.5), which slows microbial activity and organic matter decomposition. The result is a tendency for thatch—a dense layer of undecomposed stems and roots—to accumulate more rapidly than in well-drained soils. Illinois’ humid summers promote vigorous Kentucky bluegrass growth, while spring waterlogging and freeze-thaw cycles further limit decomposition. A healthy thatch layer should not exceed 0.5 inches; beyond this, problems compound: poor drainage is exacerbated, air movement to roots is restricted, and fungal diseases become more prevalent. Key indicators that dethatching is needed include:

• Matted, spongy grass surface
• Water ponding after light rain
• Thinning turf despite fertilization
• Moss growth in shaded areas
• Increased disease pressure (e.g., summer patch)
• Poor drought performance

Matteson Environmental Commission Requirements for Dethatching Near Wetlands & Protected Areas

Dethatching near Matteson’s wetlands, streams, or conservation lands requires careful coordination with local environmental authorities. The Matteson Environmental Commission oversees buffer zone regulations, typically mandating a 10-25 foot setback from wetland edges or protected water bodies. Permits may be required for any mechanical dethatching within these zones, especially near Cook County Forest Preserve District or DuPage County Forest Preserve District lands. Spring dethatching (April-May) overlaps with nesting bird season, so visual surveys for ground-nesting species are recommended in accordance with Illinois Department of Natural Resources guidelines. Erosion control is critical on exposed clay soils—use temporary seeding or erosion control blankets if overseeding is delayed. For permit procedures and environmental compliance, contact:

Matteson Environmental Commission
4900 Village Commons, Matteson, IL 60443
Phone: (708) 283-4900
Official Website: Matteson Commissions

Matteson’s Implementation of Illinois Organic Waste Regulations for Dethatched Material

Matteson enforces Illinois’ organic waste management regulations, including the Illinois Environmental Protection Act (415 ILCS 5), which prohibits disposal of yard waste—including dethatched material—in household trash. The village’s waste reduction program requires all yard waste to be placed in biodegradable paper bags or rigid containers for curbside collection. On-site composting is encouraged, provided bins are set back 5-10 feet from property lines and thatch is mixed with brown materials (like leaves) to ensure proper aeration and moisture. No plastic bags are allowed, and some neighborhoods may require thatch to be separated from other yard waste. For composting best practices and program details, contact:

Matteson Community Development Department
4900 Village Commons, Matteson, IL 60443
Phone: (708) 481-8313
Official Website: Matteson Community Development Department

Post-Dethatching Stormwater Management in Compliance with Matteson’s MS4 Program

Dethatching exposes bare soil, increasing the risk of erosion and sediment runoff into Matteson’s stormwater system, which ultimately drains to the Lake Michigan watershed. The village operates under the MS4 (Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System) permit, requiring strict erosion control measures. Best practices include immediate overseeding within 24-48 hours, use of erosion control blankets on slopes over 10-15%, and temporary mulching if seeding is delayed. Protect storm drains with sediment barriers and never dethatch when heavy rain is forecast within 24-48 hours—consult the National Weather Service Chicago for up-to-date forecasts. Always avoid working on saturated clay soils to prevent rutting and compaction. For more on stormwater compliance, see Illinois EPA Water Quality & Watershed Management and Clean Water Act.

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Matteson, IL?

Matteson’s neighborhoods each present unique thatch management challenges due to variations in soil, development age, and landscape features:

• Old Matteson/Downtown: Mature tree canopy, Drummer silty clay loam, poorly drained soils, decades of thatch accumulation, high compaction from historic development.
• Lincoln Crossings: 1980s-2000s homes, moderate tree cover, Kentucky bluegrass dominant, some tall fescue, variable compaction from construction.
• Glenridge/Butterfield Creek: Proximity to wetlands and Butterfield Creek, high water table in spring, environmental buffer requirements, increased moss and disease pressure.
• Ridgeland Manor: Newer development, minimal tree cover, full sun, rapid grass growth, compaction from recent construction, less historic thatch but high risk if not managed.
• Holden Park Area: Adjacent to parklands, mixed maintenance intensity, HOA-managed common areas, irrigation systems promoting rapid growth and thatch.
• Southwick/Meadowood: Near forest preserve lands, strict environmental oversight, seasonal flooding, fine fescue in shaded areas, slow decomposition.

Each area requires tailored dethatching timing and methods based on soil drainage, grass species, tree density, and proximity to protected lands.

Matteson Municipal Ordinances for Landscaping Operations & Equipment Use

Matteson regulates landscaping operations to minimize noise and ensure public safety. Power dethatchers and similar equipment may only be operated during designated hours—typically 7 AM to 9 PM on weekdays, 8 AM to 9 PM on Saturdays, with possible restrictions on Sundays. Noise ordinances apply to all powered equipment, and commercial service providers must be licensed and registered with the village. Comprehensive insurance (liability and workers’ compensation) is required for all contractors, and municipal contracts may require bonding. For up-to-date ordinance details and business registration requirements, contact:

Matteson Community Development Department
4900 Village Commons, Matteson, IL 60443
Phone: (708) 481-8313
Official Website: Matteson Community Development Department

For information on parks and recreational areas, including composting education and community programs, contact:

Matteson Parks and Recreation Department
4900 Village Commons, Matteson, IL 60443
Phone: (708) 441-4500
Official Website: Matteson Parks and Recreation Department

For further guidance on turf management, soil amendments, and fertilization best practices, consult University of Illinois Extension, Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, Illinois Department of Natural Resources, and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 5.