Matteson Green Waste Disposal Services

Our Green Waste Disposal Process

Contact Matteson's Department of Public Works for Seasonal Green Waste Collection & Municipal Composting Programs

Matteson offers a robust seasonal green waste collection program, typically running from early April through late November, with weekly curbside pickup by neighborhood. Residents should place biodegradable paper bags or properly bundled branches at the curb by 6:00 a.m. on collection day, ensuring materials are at least three feet from storm drains and utility boxes. During peak fall leaf season, collection frequency may increase to accommodate higher volumes. The village also provides brush and branch pickup (bundles no longer than 4 feet and under 50 pounds), Christmas tree collection in January, and emergency storm debris removal. The Transfer Station accepts organic waste during posted hours; residents must show proof of residency and may be subject to volume limits and nominal fees. Finished compost is available for residents, and the village supports community gardens and offers educational workshops on composting. For detailed schedules, permit requirements, and compost availability, contact:

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

Understanding Green Waste Volume & Decomposition Dynamics in Matteson's Prairie Clay & Glacial Till Soils

Matteson’s landscape is shaped by prairie clay and glacial till soils, as identified by the USDA Web Soil Survey. These soils are moderately to poorly drained, slowing organic matter decomposition and requiring careful green waste management to prevent accumulation. The village’s tree canopy is dominated by oaks, maples, elms, ash, and honey locust, resulting in significant leaf and branch volume, especially in autumn. Illinois’ climate—with a long growing season, frequent spring rains, and freeze-thaw cycles—further influences green waste generation and decomposition rates. Heavy clay soils can impede drainage, leading to rapid organic buildup in densely vegetated neighborhoods. Severe weather events, such as thunderstorms and tornadoes, can cause sudden surges in storm debris, necessitating flexible collection schedules and emergency response protocols.

Matteson's Implementation of Illinois Organic Waste Management Requirements for Residents

Matteson enforces Illinois’ comprehensive organic waste management requirements, including the Illinois Environmental Protection Act and the state’s landfill ban on yard waste. Residents and commercial entities must divert yard waste from landfills, using municipal collection or approved composting methods. The village provides education on proper sorting, contamination prevention, and compliance with state and local ordinances. Enforcement includes periodic inspections and fines for non-compliance. Matteson coordinates with regional composting facilities and tracks waste diversion rates, reporting to the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency. Commercial landscapers and institutions must follow additional diversion and reporting requirements. For regulatory guidance and compliance support, contact:

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

Proper Preparation & Sorting of Green Waste Materials for Matteson's Collection Programs

Residents must follow strict guidelines for green waste preparation to ensure efficient collection and environmental protection. Acceptable materials include:

• Grass clippings (fresh and dried)
• Deciduous and evergreen leaves
• Garden debris (vegetable waste, flower bed cleanings, pruned materials)
• Brush and branches (under 4 feet long, 50 pounds per bundle)
• Pumpkins, Christmas trees, holiday greenery
• Hedge trimmings and weeds

Prohibited materials:

• Treated lumber, construction debris
• Diseased plant materials (require special handling)
• Invasive species (buckthorn, bush honeysuckle, garlic mustard)
• Contaminated organics (paint, chemicals)
• Stumps, roots, soil, rocks

Preparation steps:

• Use biodegradable paper bags or place leaves loose where allowed
• Bundle branches with natural twine
• Remove plastic pots, wire, and non-organic debris
• Place materials curbside by 6:00 a.m. on collection day
• Separate storm debris from construction waste after severe weather

For questions about preparation or prohibited materials, contact:

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

Matteson Environmental Compliance Guidelines for Green Waste Management Near Protected Areas

Green waste activities near Matteson’s streams, wetlands, and conservation areas are subject to additional oversight. Buffer zones restrict disposal and require natural leaf retention to prevent erosion and support wildlife. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources provides guidance on buffer management and invasive species control. Residents must:

• Avoid placing green waste within designated buffer zones
• Use organic materials for erosion control only as approved
• Dispose of invasive species separately to prevent spread
• Observe seasonal restrictions to protect nesting wildlife

Coordination with Matteson’s environmental staff ensures compliance with conservation goals and habitat protection. For more information, consult the Illinois DNR or the village’s environmental services.

Protecting Matteson's Water Quality Through Green Waste Management & NPDES Stormwater Compliance

Proper green waste management is essential for protecting Matteson’s water resources, including Butterfield Creek and local wetlands. The village complies with the EPA NPDES stormwater program, preventing organic matter from entering storm drains and reducing nutrient loading that can cause algae blooms and oxygen depletion. Residents should:

• Keep green waste at least three feet from storm drains
• Avoid placing materials on paved surfaces
• Use composted organics to improve soil and reduce runoff

These practices support Matteson’s water quality goals and broader sustainability initiatives. For more on stormwater compliance, visit the Clean Water Act and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 5.

On-Site Green Waste Management: Composting, Mulching & Sustainable Practices in Matteson

Residents are encouraged to manage green waste on-site through composting, mulch-mowing, and grasscycling. Local ordinances require compost bins to be set back 10-20 feet from property lines and at least 50 feet from wells. Bins should not exceed 5x5x5 feet and must be managed to prevent odors and pests. Best practices include:

• Maintain a balanced carbon-to-nitrogen ratio (browns vs. greens)
• Monitor moisture, especially during wet Illinois springs and hot summers
• Exclude meat, dairy, oils, pet waste, diseased plants, and invasive species
• Mulch-mow leaves into lawns when coverage is light and soils are well-drained
• Chip brush for mulch or use in rain gardens

For composting guidance, contact the University of Illinois Extension.

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Matteson, IL?

Matteson’s neighborhoods each present unique green waste management needs:

• Old Matteson: Mature oaks and maples create heavy fall leaf volume; historic homes with large yards require frequent collection and support for senior residents.
• Lincoln Crossings: Newer developments with younger trees generate less leaf waste but more grass clippings; alley collection is common.
• Ridgeland Manor: Dense tree canopy and proximity to Butterfield Creek require strict buffer compliance and floodplain timing considerations.
• Holden Park Area: Community gardens and parkland increase organic waste; partnership with Parks and Recreation supports composting and soil improvement.
• Glenridge: Multi-family properties with shared green spaces need coordinated collection and education on sorting.
• Matteson East: Prairie restoration areas and native plantings reduce traditional yard waste but require invasive species management.
• Southwick: Senior communities benefit from additional brush pickup and storm debris support; smaller lots generate less volume but require accessibility.

For neighborhood-specific collection schedules and support, contact:

Matteson Parks and Recreation Department
20642 Matteson Ave, Matteson, IL 60443
(708) 441-4500
Official Website: Matteson Parks and Recreation Department

Matteson Municipal Ordinances for Green Waste Equipment Operation & Commercial Services

Matteson’s ordinances regulate green waste equipment operation to minimize noise and environmental impact. Lawn equipment may be used only between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. on weekdays and 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on weekends. Commercial haulers must be licensed and comply with disposal regulations, including proper documentation and use of approved facilities. Residents and contractors are prohibited from placing green waste in the public right-of-way outside of designated collection periods. Enforcement is managed by the village’s code enforcement and public works staff, with fines for violations. For ordinance details and commercial licensing, contact the Department of Public Works or review local codes on the village website.

By following these guidelines and participating in Matteson’s green waste programs, residents help protect local ecosystems, comply with state and federal regulations, and contribute to a more sustainable and resilient community.