Glencoe Landscape Services

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

Glencoe’s green waste management is a cornerstone of responsible lawn care, supporting both environmental health and regulatory compliance. Seasonal yard waste collection typically runs from April through November, with pickups scheduled weekly. Residents must use paper yard waste bags or rigid containers—plastic bags are not permitted—to ensure proper composting and avoid contamination. For larger debris, brush bundles (no longer than 4 feet, tied with twine) are accepted. A dedicated yard waste drop-off site is available for residents, with operating hours and permit requirements posted on the village website. Commercial landscapers must comply with disposal regulations and may be subject to additional fees. Disposing of lawn waste in streets, alleys, or storm drains is strictly prohibited to protect water quality and comply with the Illinois Environmental Protection Act (415 ILCS 5), safeguarding the Lake Michigan watershed.

Glencoe Public Works Department
675 Village Court, Glencoe, IL 60022
Phone: (847) 835-4111
Official Website: Glencoe Public Works Department

Glencoe Park District
999 Green Bay Road, Glencoe, IL 60022
Phone: (847) 835-3030
Official Website: Glencoe Park District

Lawn Care Regulations & Permits in Glencoe, IL

Lawn care in Glencoe is governed by a comprehensive regulatory framework designed to protect public health and the environment. The Illinois Fertilizer Act (505 ILCS 80) restricts phosphorus use on established lawns unless a soil test indicates deficiency or for new lawn establishment. Buffer zones (typically 10-25 feet) are required near water bodies to prevent runoff. Pesticide applications must comply with the Illinois Pesticide Act (415 ILCS 60), requiring commercial applicator licensing and notification, with treated areas clearly posted. Outdoor watering is regulated by address-based schedules and time-of-day restrictions (watering prohibited from noon to 6 PM, May 15–September 15). Noise ordinances limit equipment operation to 7:00 AM–9:00 PM on weekdays and 8:00 AM–9:00 PM on Saturdays, with restrictions on Sundays and holidays. Commercial operators must register with the village, maintain liability insurance, and ensure worker certifications.

Glencoe Community Development Department
675 Village Court, Glencoe, IL 60022
Phone: (847) 461-1118
Official Website: Community Development Department

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve in Glencoe, IL?

Glencoe’s neighborhoods each present unique lawn care challenges and opportunities, shaped by local soil, microclimate, and community standards:

• East Glencoe (Lakefront District): Features mature tree canopies, heavy Drummer silty clay loam soils, and proximity to Lake Michigan, requiring careful drainage management and shade-tolerant turfgrasses.
• Downtown/Central Glencoe: Historic homes with smaller lots, alkaline soils, and dense underground utilities; subject to historic district guidelines and aesthetic standards.
• West Glencoe (Hubbard Woods area): Larger lots, newer developments with shallow topsoil over clay, and increased sun exposure; HOA restrictions may apply.
• South Glencoe (near South School): Mix of older and newer homes, moderate tree cover, and variable drainage; close to forest preserve lands, requiring buffer compliance.
• North Glencoe (near Skokie Country Club): Expansive lawns, mature trees, and high-value properties; subject to both HOA and village regulations.
• Green Bay Road Corridor: High traffic, increased salt exposure, and compacted soils; special attention to salt-tolerant species and soil remediation.
• Forest Preserve Edges: Adjacent to Cook County Forest Preserve District, with conservation easements and invasive species management requirements.

Partnering With Glencoe’s Environmental Commission for Sustainable Landscaping

Glencoe’s Environmental Commission and Sustainability Task Force play a vital role in guiding sustainable landscaping and environmental stewardship. Their oversight includes wetland protection, buffer zone enforcement, and fertilizer/pesticide restrictions in sensitive areas. Sustainable 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, in compliance with the Clean Water Act and Illinois EPA Water Quality & Watershed Management. The commission also coordinates with the Cook County Forest Preserve District and supports local tree planting, invasive species removal, and community education.

Sustainability Task Force / Environmental Programs
675 Village Court, Glencoe, IL 60022
Phone: (847) 835-4111
Official Website: Sustainability Task Force

Top Glencoe Lawn Problems (and How We Solve Them)

Glencoe lawns face several region-specific challenges, each requiring science-based solutions:

• 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)
• Drought and heat stress
• Weed invasions (crabgrass, dandelion, nutsedge)

Solutions include:

• Core aeration (at least twice annually) to relieve compaction
• Soil testing via University of Illinois Extension and sulfur amendments for pH adjustment
• Salt-tolerant turfgrass selection and gypsum applications for salt-affected areas
• Integrated pest management and use of disease-resistant cultivars
• Overseeding with turf-type tall fescue for drought tolerance
• Proper mowing, irrigation, and fertilization practices
• Targeted weed control and invasive species management

What Makes Lawns in Glencoe Different From the Rest of Illinois?

Glencoe’s lawns are shaped by unique regional and historical factors:

• Climate: USDA Hardiness Zone 5a–6a, with a growing season of 180–200 days and harsh winters
• Soil: Predominantly Drummer silty clay loam, high in calcium, with poor drainage and alkaline pH
• Microclimate: Lake Michigan moderates temperatures, but prairie winds and urban heat islands affect evapotranspiration
• Pest Pressure: High incidence of Japanese beetles, billbugs, and fungal diseases due to humid summers
• Development Patterns: Post-WWII suburban growth, mature tree canopies, and a shift from pure Kentucky bluegrass to mixed-species lawns
• Historical Landscaping: Emphasis on traditional bluegrass lawns, now transitioning to sustainable, native plantings

Supporting Local Events in Glencoe With Lawn Expertise

Professional lawn care supports Glencoe’s vibrant community life by preparing and maintaining public spaces for:

• Summer festivals and farmers markets on the Village Green
• Athletic field maintenance for youth sports (Little League, soccer, football)
• Park beautification for public gatherings and holiday celebrations
• Emergency storm cleanup and debris removal
• Community education events (Arbor Day, Earth Day, library workshops)
• Partnerships with local garden clubs and schools for sustainable landscaping education

Glencoe Park District
999 Green Bay Road, Glencoe, IL 60022
Phone: (847) 835-3030
Official Website: Glencoe Park District

Eco-Friendly Landscaping Backed by Glencoe’s Green Initiatives

Glencoe’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its green initiatives and Tree City USA status. Key practices include:

• Smart irrigation systems with rain sensors and weather-based controllers
• Drought-tolerant turfgrass blends (turf-type tall fescue)
• Rainwater harvesting and xeriscaping for water conservation
• Compost topdressing to improve clay soil structure
• Pollinator-friendly landscaping with native plants
• Battery-powered equipment to reduce emissions and noise
• Grasscycling to reduce landfill waste and carbon footprint
• Sourcing materials locally and supporting municipal renewable energy programs These efforts align with Glencoe’s climate action goals and promote a healthier, more resilient landscape for all residents.

Proudly Serving These Streets and Areas in Glencoe

Lawn care services in Glencoe are organized to ensure comprehensive coverage across all neighborhoods and notable landmarks:

• Downtown/Central: Park Avenue, Vernon Avenue, Hazel Avenue, Village Green, Glencoe Metra Station
• East Glencoe: Sheridan Road, Lakeside Drive, Longwood Avenue, Lakefront Park, Glencoe Beach
• West Glencoe: Green Bay Road, Dundee Road, Forestway Drive, West Park, Watts Park
• North Glencoe: South Avenue, Maple Hill Road, Skokie Country Club, North School area
• South Glencoe: South School, Duke Park, Maple Avenue, Southwood Circle
• Major Subdivisions: Skokie Ridge, Ravine Bluffs, Hohlfelder, Valley Road Estates
• Historic Districts: Downtown Historic District, Ravine Bluffs (Frank Lloyd Wright homes)
• Landmarks: Takiff Center, Weinberg Family Recreation Center, Berlin Park, Kalk Park
• Forest Preserve Access: Green Bay Trail, Cook County Forest Preserve entrances Special considerations are given to areas with conservation easements, HOA guidelines, and historic preservation requirements, ensuring all services meet local standards and environmental goals.