Morton Grove Green Waste Disposal Services

Our Green Waste Disposal Process

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

Morton Grove offers a robust seasonal green waste collection program, typically running from early April through late November, with weekly curbside pickup by neighborhood. Residents must place biodegradable paper bags or properly bundled brush at the curb by 7:00 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 supports municipal composting, providing finished compost for community gardens and resident use, and occasionally offers bulk compost delivery and educational workshops. The Transfer Station accepts organic waste during posted hours, requiring proof of residency and, in some cases, a permit or sticker. Brush and branch pickup is scheduled separately, with size limits of 4-foot lengths and 50-pound bundles, and special collections are arranged for storm debris and Christmas trees. For detailed schedules, preparation requirements, and program updates, contact:

Morton Grove Department of Public Works
6101 Capulina Avenue, Morton Grove, IL 60053
(847) 470-5235
Official Website: Morton Grove Public Works Department

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

Morton Grove's landscape is shaped by prairie clay and glacial till soils, which are moderately to poorly drained and high in clay content. These soils slow organic matter decomposition, especially during wet springs or after heavy rainfall, leading to rapid green waste accumulation in densely vegetated areas. The village's tree canopy is dominated by oaks, maples, elms, ash, and honey locust, resulting in significant leaf and branch volume during spring and fall. The local climate features a long growing season, frequent precipitation, and freeze-thaw cycles that can delay decomposition and complicate collection schedules. Severe weather events, such as thunderstorms and occasional tornadoes, can generate large amounts of storm debris, requiring emergency management. Urban heat island effects and periodic flooding further influence green waste breakdown and collection needs. For more on local soils, visit the USDA Web Soil Survey.

Morton Grove's Implementation of Illinois Organic Waste Management Requirements for Residents

Illinois law prohibits the disposal of yard waste in landfills, as outlined in the Illinois Environmental Protection Act. Morton Grove enforces these requirements through curbside collection, composting programs, and resident education. Commercial landscapers and institutions must also comply with organic waste diversion mandates, ensuring proper sorting and delivery to approved facilities. The village coordinates with regional composting infrastructure and tracks waste diversion to meet Illinois Environmental Protection Agency standards. Non-compliance may result in warnings or fines, and ongoing outreach helps residents understand preparation and sorting rules. Morton Grove supports community composting and provides technical assistance for sustainable practices. For regulatory details and compliance support, contact:

Morton Grove Community and Economic Development
6101 Capulina Avenue, Morton Grove, IL 60053
(847) 470-5235
Official Website: Morton Grove Community and Economic Development

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

Residents must follow specific guidelines to ensure efficient green waste collection and prevent contamination. Acceptable materials include:

• Grass clippings (fresh or 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:

• Soil, rocks, and stones
• Treated lumber and construction debris
• Diseased plant materials (require special handling)
• Invasive species (buckthorn, bush honeysuckle, garlic mustard)
• Plastic containers, wire, or chemically treated materials

Preparation steps:

• Use biodegradable paper bags or place leaves loose for designated collection
• Bundle branches with natural twine
• Remove all non-organic debris
• Place materials curbside by 7:00 a.m. on collection day
• Separate storm debris from construction waste during emergency pickups

For more information on preparation and prohibited items, contact:

Morton Grove Department of Public Works
6101 Capulina Avenue, Morton Grove, IL 60053
(847) 470-5235
Official Website: Morton Grove Public Works Department

Morton Grove Environmental Compliance Guidelines for Green Waste Management Near Protected Areas

Green waste activities near Morton Grove's sensitive areas—such as the North Branch of the Chicago River, local wetlands, and conservation zones—are subject to additional oversight. Buffer zones restrict green waste placement near streams and wetlands to prevent nutrient runoff and erosion. In conservation areas, natural leaf retention may be required to support wildlife habitat. Invasive species must be bagged and disposed of according to municipal and Illinois Department of Natural Resources guidelines to prevent spread. Seasonal restrictions may apply during bird nesting periods, and some debris may be left in place to provide shelter for native species. For environmental compliance questions, contact:

Morton Grove Environment and Natural Resources
6101 Capulina Avenue, Morton Grove, IL 60053
(847) 470-5235
Official Website: Morton Grove Environment and Natural Resources

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

Proper green waste management is essential for protecting Morton Grove's water resources, including the North Branch of the Chicago River and local wetlands. The village operates under an NPDES MS4 stormwater permit, requiring measures to prevent organic matter from entering storm drains and waterways. Residents should avoid placing green waste near storm inlets and follow staging guidelines to prevent runoff. Composting and mulching reduce nutrient loading, helping prevent algae blooms and oxygen depletion in local water bodies. These practices also support soil health, carbon sequestration, and climate action goals. For more on stormwater compliance, see the EPA NPDES and Clean Water Act.

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

Residents are encouraged to manage green waste on-site through composting, mulch-mowing, and grasscycling. Compost bins must be set back 10-20 feet from property lines and at least 50 feet from wells, with size limits per local ordinance. Best practices include:

• Maintain a balanced carbon-to-nitrogen ratio (browns vs. greens)
• Monitor moisture, especially during wet springs and hot summers
• Turn piles regularly to prevent odors and pests
• Avoid composting meat, dairy, oils, pet waste, diseased plants, and invasive species
• Use finished compost in gardens, rain gardens, and landscaping

Mulch-mowing leaves into lawns is recommended for light coverage and well-drained soils. Brush chipping and naturalized garden areas further reduce waste. For composting guidance, visit University of Illinois Extension.

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Morton Grove, IL?

Morton Grove's neighborhoods each present unique green waste management needs:

• Lehigh Avenue Corridor: Mature oaks and maples, large single-family lots, high fall leaf volume, curbside collection, proximity to North Branch requiring buffer compliance
• Dempster Street Area: Mixed residential and commercial, moderate tree canopy, multi-family properties with shared collection points, alley access challenges
• Prairie View Estates: Newer development, younger trees, lower initial waste volume, HOA-coordinated services, stormwater management features
• Golf Road District: Historic homes, dense canopy, narrow streets, alley pickup, composting structure restrictions, floodplain considerations
• Austin Park Vicinity: Senior communities, smaller lots, additional support for yard waste handling, intensive spring/fall cleanup traditions
• Menard Avenue Neighborhood: Naturalized gardens, prairie restoration, native plantings, on-site composting, environmental compliance near wetlands
• Oriole Park Area: Urban density, limited yard space, shared green waste bins, focus on container gardening and grasscycling

Each area is served by the village's collection and composting programs, with adjustments for landscape, property type, and environmental features. For neighborhood-specific guidance, contact:

Morton Grove Department of Public Works
6101 Capulina Avenue, Morton Grove, IL 60053
(847) 470-5235
Official Website: Morton Grove Public Works Department

Morton Grove Municipal Ordinances for Green Waste Equipment Operation & Commercial Services

Morton Grove enforces ordinances regulating green waste equipment operation and commercial services. Equipment such as leaf blowers and chippers may only be used during designated hours to minimize noise. Commercial landscapers must be licensed and follow disposal regulations, including proper sorting and delivery to approved facilities. Residents and contractors are prohibited from placing green waste in the public right-of-way outside of scheduled collection times. The Building Department oversees code compliance and enforcement, issuing warnings or fines for violations. For ordinance details and permit requirements, contact:

Morton Grove Building and Inspectional Services Department
6101 Capulina Avenue, Morton Grove, IL 60053
(847) 470-5235
Official Website: Morton Grove Building and Inspectional Services Department

By following these guidelines and participating in Morton Grove's green waste programs, residents and businesses help protect the environment, comply with state and local regulations, and contribute to a more sustainable and resilient community.