Mount Prospect Green Waste Disposal Services

Our Green Waste Disposal Process

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

Mount Prospect 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 yard waste bags or properly bundled branches at the curb by 7:00 a.m. on their scheduled collection day, ensuring materials are at least three feet from storm drains and utility boxes. During peak fall leaf season, collection is often extended to accommodate increased volume. 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. For larger loads, the Transfer Station accepts organic waste during posted hours; residents must show proof of residency and may be subject to volume limits or nominal fees. Finished compost is available to residents through municipal or regional partnerships, supporting community gardens and local landscaping projects. For more information, contact:

Mount Prospect Public Works Department
1700 W. Central Road, Mount Prospect, IL 60056
Phone: (847) 870-5640
Official Website: Mount Prospect Public Works Department

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

Mount Prospect'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, with high clay content that slows organic matter decomposition, especially during wet springs or after heavy rainfall. The village's mature tree canopy—dominated by oaks, maples, elms, ash, and honey locust—produces significant seasonal leaf and branch volume, particularly in autumn. Local climate factors, including a growing season from April to October, frequent freeze-thaw cycles, and occasional severe weather, further influence green waste generation and collection needs. Dense vegetation and urban heat island effects can accelerate organic matter accumulation, while periodic flooding and high water tables in low-lying areas require careful timing of green waste disposal to prevent environmental impacts.

Mount Prospect'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. Mount Prospect enforces these requirements through mandatory curbside collection, resident education, and coordination with regional composting facilities. Commercial landscapers and institutions must comply with organic waste diversion mandates, ensuring proper sorting and delivery to approved processing sites. The village supports compliance through public workshops, informational mailings, and enforcement of non-compliance with warnings or fines. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency oversees facility permitting, diversion tracking, and provides technical assistance to municipal programs. Residents are encouraged to participate in community composting initiatives and to consult local ordinances for up-to-date guidelines. For regulatory questions, contact:

Mount Prospect Community Development Department
50 S. Emerson Street, Mount Prospect, IL 60056
Phone: (847) 818-5328
Official Website: Mount Prospect Community Development Department

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

To ensure efficient collection and processing, residents must follow specific preparation guidelines:

• Acceptable materials: grass clippings, deciduous and evergreen leaves, garden debris, brush and branches (under 4 feet/50 lbs), pumpkins, Christmas trees, holiday greenery, hedge trimmings, weeds
• Prohibited materials: treated lumber, construction debris, diseased plants, invasive species (buckthorn, honeysuckle, garlic mustard), contaminated organics, stumps, roots, soil, rocks, plastic containers
• Preparation steps:
  • Use biodegradable paper bags for loose materials
  • Bundle branches with natural twine (no wire or plastic)
  • Remove soil, stones, and plastic pots
  • Place materials curbside by 7:00 a.m. on collection day
  • Keep green waste separate from trash and recycling
  • Avoid overfilling bags to prevent breakage
• Storm debris: Separate organic from construction debris after severe weather; follow emergency collection instructions from the village

For further details on preparation and prohibited materials, contact:

Mount Prospect Public Works Department
1700 W. Central Road, Mount Prospect, IL 60056
Phone: (847) 870-5640
Official Website: Mount Prospect Public Works Department

Mount Prospect Environmental Compliance Guidelines for Green Waste Management Near Protected Areas

Green waste activities near Mount Prospect's streams, wetlands, and conservation areas are subject to additional oversight. Buffer zones must be maintained to prevent organic material runoff into sensitive habitats, and natural leaf retention is often required in designated conservation areas to support soil health and wildlife. Invasive species such as buckthorn and garlic mustard must be bagged separately and disposed of according to municipal guidelines to prevent their spread. Seasonal restrictions may apply during bird nesting periods or in areas supporting rare species. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources provides guidance on buffer management, invasive species control, and wildlife habitat protection. Residents are encouraged to consult with the village before conducting large-scale green waste activities near protected areas.

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

Proper green waste management is essential for protecting Mount Prospect's water resources, including the Des Plaines 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 practices help reduce nutrient loading (nitrogen and phosphorus) that can cause algae blooms and oxygen depletion in local water bodies. These efforts support compliance with the Clean Water Act and EPA NPDES requirements. For more information on water quality protection, contact:

Mount Prospect Public Works Department
1700 W. Central Road, Mount Prospect, IL 60056
Phone: (847) 870-5640
Official Website: Mount Prospect Public Works Department

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

Residents are encouraged to adopt sustainable on-site green waste practices, such as backyard composting, mulch-mowing, and grasscycling. Compost bins should be placed at least 10-20 feet from property lines and 50-100 feet from wells, following local ordinances. Piles should be managed to prevent odors, pests, and runoff, with a balanced mix of "browns" (leaves, straw) and "greens" (grass clippings, vegetable scraps). Materials prohibited in home composting include meat, dairy, oils, pet waste, diseased plants, and invasive species. Mulch-mowing is effective for light leaf coverage on well-drained lawns, while brush chipping can provide mulch for garden beds. The University of Illinois Extension offers workshops and resources on composting best practices tailored to Illinois' climate. For local composting regulations, contact:

Mount Prospect Building Department
50 S. Emerson Street, Mount Prospect, IL 60056
Phone: (847) 818-5289
Official Website: Mount Prospect Building Permit Application and Inspections

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Mount Prospect, IL?

Mount Prospect's neighborhoods each present unique green waste management needs:

• Central Mount Prospect: Historic homes with mature oaks and maples generate high fall leaf volumes; narrow streets require careful curbside placement.
• Lions Park Area: Large single-family lots with intensive gardening and proximity to the Des Plaines River demand strict buffer compliance and floodplain timing.
• Prospect Heights Border: Newer developments with younger trees produce less leaf waste but more grass clippings; alley collection is common.
• Randhurst Village: Mixed-use and multi-family properties rely on shared collection points and may need additional support for senior residents.
• Busse Woods Vicinity: Adjacent to conservation areas, these neighborhoods must follow special disposal rules for invasive species and maintain wildlife-friendly practices.
• South Mount Prospect: Dense urban lots with limited on-site composting options; street parking can impact collection vehicle access.
• Northwest Estates: Prairie restoration areas and native landscaping reduce green waste volume but require specialized management for native plant debris.

For neighborhood-specific collection schedules and guidance, contact:

Mount Prospect Public Works Department
1700 W. Central Road, Mount Prospect, IL 60056
Phone: (847) 870-5640
Official Website: Mount Prospect Public Works Department

Mount Prospect Municipal Ordinances for Green Waste Equipment Operation & Commercial Services

Mount Prospect enforces municipal ordinances regulating green waste equipment operation and commercial services. Lawn and landscaping equipment may only be operated during designated hours to minimize noise, typically 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on weekdays and 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on weekends. Commercial haulers and landscapers must be licensed and comply with disposal regulations, including proper sorting and delivery to approved facilities. Right-of-way regulations prohibit placement of green waste in streets or blocking sidewalks. Code enforcement officers conduct routine inspections and respond to complaints, issuing warnings or fines for violations. For ordinance details and licensing requirements, contact:

Mount Prospect Community Development Department
50 S. Emerson Street, Mount Prospect, IL 60056
Phone: (847) 818-5328
Official Website: Mount Prospect Community Development Department

By following these guidelines and participating in Mount Prospect's green waste programs, residents contribute to a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable community, supporting local environmental goals and compliance with state and federal regulations.