Matteson Leaf Removal Services

Our Leaf Removal Process

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

Matteson’s Department of Public Works (DPW) coordinates a comprehensive leaf collection program each fall, typically running from mid-October through early December. Collection days are scheduled by neighborhood, with most areas receiving weekly curbside pickup during peak leaf drop. Residents should place leaves in biodegradable paper yard waste bags or, where permitted, in loose piles at the curb by 7:00 AM on their designated collection day. Bags and piles must be set at least three feet from storm drains, fire hydrants, and parked vehicles to ensure safe and efficient removal. The DPW also operates a Transfer Station for bulk leaf disposal; permits may be required, and hours of operation are posted seasonally. Brush and small branch collection is available, but materials must be bundled according to village guidelines. For the most current schedule, placement rules, and permit information, contact:

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

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

Matteson’s landscape is shaped by heavy clay prairie soils, as identified by the USDA Web Soil Survey. These soils are slow-draining and prone to compaction, which means that leaf accumulation can quickly create anaerobic conditions detrimental to turfgrass health. When leaves cover lawns for more than two to three weeks, especially in poorly drained clay or compacted urban soils, turf suffocation, fungal disease, and blocked sunlight can occur. In contrast, lighter leaf coverage on well-drained soils may be safely mulch-mowed. Leaves left in naturalized garden beds, conservation buffers, or wooded areas can benefit soil health and wildlife, but maintained lawns require regular removal to prevent damage. For more on local soil characteristics, visit the USDA Web Soil Survey.

Matteson Environmental Compliance Guidelines for Leaf Disposal Near Protected Areas

Proper leaf disposal is essential near Matteson’s streams, wetlands, and conservation areas to protect sensitive habitats and comply with state regulations. Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) guidelines require buffer zones along water bodies, where natural leaf retention supports wildlife and nutrient cycling. However, leaves must be removed from maintained lawns and kept out of protected areas to prevent nutrient runoff and habitat disruption. Residents should coordinate with local environmental services for guidance on buffer management and protected area compliance. For more information, contact:

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

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

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

Matteson participates in the Illinois EPA’s Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) program, which mandates strict controls on organic debris entering storm drains. Leaves left in streets or gutters can wash into storm systems, leading to nutrient loading, oxygen depletion, and algae growth in local receiving waters such as Butterfield Creek and nearby wetlands. Residents must never rake or blow leaves into the street. Instead, use curbside collection or approved disposal methods. These practices help protect water quality under the Clean Water Act and EPA NPDES requirements. For more information on stormwater compliance, contact:

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

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

Illinois law prohibits the disposal of yard waste, including leaves, in landfills. Matteson enforces this through its municipal collection program, requiring residents to use biodegradable paper bags or participate in loose leaf pickup where available. The village educates residents on proper disposal, composting alternatives, and setback requirements to prevent runoff. Composting is encouraged for those with the space and resources, but all methods must comply with local ordinances and the Illinois yard waste landfill ban. For statewide regulations, visit the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency. For local program details, contact:

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

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

Matteson’s urban canopy features a mix of sugar maples, Norway maples, oaks (red, white, bur), ash, honey locust, and elms. Early October sees heavy drop from maples and ash, while oaks and hickories shed leaves 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 to help schedule removals 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 staggered drop patterns and avoid lawn damage from prolonged coverage.

• Monitor local weather for optimal collection windows
• Schedule removals after peak drop but before freeze or snow
• Plan for multiple passes in areas with dense or late-dropping trees

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

After leaf removal, assess lawns for thin or damaged areas. Late-season fertilization, applied according to University of Illinois Extension (University of Illinois Extension) guidelines, helps strengthen turf for winter. Overseeding may be possible if done early enough in the fall. Set the final mowing height to 2.5–3 inches to protect grass crowns during Illinois winters. Remove all debris and improve drainage, especially in clay-heavy soils, to prevent winterkill and disease. Plan for early spring care to support recovery from dormancy. For plant health questions, consult the University of Illinois Extension Plant Clinic.

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Matteson, IL?

Matteson’s neighborhoods each present unique leaf management challenges:

• Old Matteson: Mature oaks and maples, heavy clay soils, historic lots with dense canopies, alley access complicates collection logistics.
• Lincoln Crossings: Newer development, moderate tree cover (honey locust, ash), improved drainage but compacted urban soils, front curb collection.
• Ridgeland Manor: High-density lots, parkway trees (elms, maples), proximity to Butterfield Creek requires strict NPDES compliance.
• Glenridge: Large lots, mixed hardwoods, sloped terrain increases leaf movement, wind exposure from open prairie.
• Holden Park Area: Adjacent to parks and wetlands, conservation buffer zones, special attention to protected area compliance.
• Matteson East Estates: Bur oaks and beech, late leaf drop, floodplain considerations, clay soils with slow drainage.
• Southwick: Moderate canopy, newer plantings, improved soil amendments, easier collection but watch for early snow cover.

Each area’s tree density, soil type, environmental proximity, and development pattern influence the timing, frequency, and method of leaf collection.

Matteson Municipal Ordinances for Leaf Blowing Equipment Operation & Noise Control

Matteson regulates the use of leaf blowers and other powered equipment to minimize noise and environmental impact. Equipment may typically be operated between 7:00 AM and 7:00 PM on weekdays and 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Saturdays, with restrictions on Sundays and holidays. Commercial operators may require special licensing, and all users must comply with noise ordinances to avoid disturbances. Seasonal restrictions may apply during peak collection periods. For ordinance details and licensing requirements, contact:

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

For public health concerns related to leaf management, contact:

Cook County Department of Public Health
7556 Jackson Blvd, Forest Park, IL 60130
(708) 836-8600
Cook County Department of Public Health

By following Matteson’s municipal guidelines and state regulations, residents can help protect local water quality, support ecological health, and maintain vibrant, resilient lawns throughout the fall and winter seasons.