Lemont Green Waste Disposal Services

Our Green Waste Disposal Process

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

Lemont 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. Lemont 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 community gardens and residents, with educational workshops offered throughout the year. For detailed schedules, permit requirements, and compost availability, contact:

Lemont Department of Public Works
418 Main Street, Lemont, IL 60439
Phone: (630) 257-2532
Official Website: Lemont Department of Public Works

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

Lemont'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 area’s mature tree canopy—dominated by oaks, maples, elms, ash, and honey locust—produces significant leaf and branch volume, especially in autumn. Lemont’s climate, with a growing season from April to October, 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, while urban heat islands may accelerate decomposition in developed areas. Severe weather events, such as thunderstorms and tornadoes, can cause sudden surges in green waste, requiring flexible collection strategies.

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

Illinois law prohibits yard waste disposal in landfills, as outlined in the Illinois Environmental Protection Act. Lemont 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 provides clear guidelines, monitors compliance, and issues warnings or fines for violations. Lemont’s Community Development Department supports community composting initiatives and tracks waste diversion rates in partnership with the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency. Residents can access technical assistance and educational resources to ensure compliance and support Lemont’s sustainability goals. For more information on local implementation and enforcement, contact:

Lemont Community Development Department
418 Main Street, Lemont, IL 60439
Phone: (630) 257-1590
Official Website: Lemont Community Development Department

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

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

• Use biodegradable paper yard waste bags for leaves, grass clippings, and garden debris
• Bundle branches and brush with natural twine (no wire or plastic), keeping bundles under 4 feet long and 50 pounds
• Place materials curbside by 6:00 a.m. on collection day, away from storm drains and utilities
• Remove soil, rocks, plastic pots, and wire from all green waste
• Do not include prohibited materials: treated lumber, construction debris, stumps, roots, diseased plants, or invasive species (e.g., buckthorn, bush honeysuckle, garlic mustard)
• Separate storm debris (organic vs. construction materials) after severe weather events

Proper sorting prevents contamination, protects collection equipment, and ensures compliance with landfill bans. For questions about preparation or prohibited materials, contact:

Lemont Department of Public Works
418 Main Street, Lemont, IL 60439
Phone: (630) 257-2532
Official Website: Lemont Department of Public Works

Lemont Environmental Compliance Guidelines for Green Waste Management Near Protected Areas

Green waste activities near Lemont’s sensitive areas—such as the Des Plaines River, local wetlands, and conservation zones—are subject to additional oversight. Buffer zones must be maintained to prevent organic material from entering waterways, and natural leaf retention is encouraged in conservation areas to support soil health and wildlife. Invasive species must be bagged and disposed of according to municipal guidelines to prevent spread. Seasonal restrictions may apply during bird nesting periods, and some debris may be left in place to provide habitat. Coordination with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources ensures compliance with state conservation goals. For site-specific guidance, contact:

Lemont Building Department
418 Main Street, Lemont, IL 60439
Phone: (630) 257-1581
Official Website: Lemont Building Department

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

Proper green waste management is essential for protecting Lemont’s water resources, including the Des Plaines River and local wetlands. Organic matter left in streets or near storm drains can contribute to nutrient loading, oxygen depletion, and harmful algae blooms. Lemont’s programs align with EPA NPDES and Clean Water Act requirements, preventing runoff contamination and supporting the village’s MS4 stormwater permit. Residents are urged to keep green waste out of gutters and storm drains, use compost to improve soil health, and participate in community tree planting and rain garden projects. For more information on water quality initiatives, contact:

Lemont Parks and Recreation Department
16028 127th Street, Lemont, IL 60439
Phone: (630) 257-6787
Official Website: Lemont Parks and Recreation Department

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

Residents are encouraged to manage green waste on-site through backyard 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 pile sizes limited per local ordinance. Only yard waste (leaves, grass, non-diseased plant material) should be composted—meat, dairy, oils, pet waste, and invasive species are prohibited. Maintain a balanced carbon-to-nitrogen ratio, monitor moisture, and turn piles regularly to prevent odors and pests. Mulch-mowing leaves into lawns is recommended for light coverage and well-drained soils. Brush chipping and rain garden integration further support sustainable landscaping. For composting best practices and local regulations, consult:

University of Illinois Extension
Local County Office
Phone: (217) 333-5900
Official Website: University of Illinois Extension

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Lemont, IL?

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

• Historic Downtown: Mature oaks and maples, narrow streets, alley collection, and historic property restrictions on composting structures
• Timberline Estates: Large single-family lots, high leaf and branch volume, proximity to wetlands requiring buffer compliance
• Covington Knolls: Newer developments with younger trees, shared green spaces, and HOA-coordinated collection
• River Valley: Floodplain location, frequent spring debris, and special timing for disposal to avoid waterway contamination
• Old Quarry Estates: Dense tree canopy, intensive gardening, and high seasonal cleanup activity
• Lemont Hills: Senior community, smaller lots, additional support for curbside collection, and limited on-site management
• Prairie View: Native prairie restoration, naturalized landscaping, and reduced green waste volume but strict invasive species control

Each area’s landscape, property type, environmental features, and infrastructure influence collection schedules, preparation requirements, and sustainable management options.

Lemont Municipal Ordinances for Green Waste Equipment Operation & Commercial Services

Lemont’s municipal code regulates green waste equipment operation to minimize noise and environmental impact. Lawn equipment may only be used during designated hours (typically 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on weekdays, with reduced hours on weekends). Commercial landscapers must be licensed and comply with all disposal and sorting regulations. Right-of-way rules prohibit placement of green waste in streets or blocking sidewalks. Enforcement is managed by the Code Enforcement Division, with fines for violations. Residents and businesses are encouraged to review local ordinances and seek guidance for compliance. For ordinance details and enforcement procedures, contact:

Lemont Department of Public Works
418 Main Street, Lemont, IL 60439
Phone: (630) 257-2532
Official Website: Lemont Department of Public Works

By following Lemont’s green waste management guidelines, residents and businesses help protect local ecosystems, comply with state and federal regulations, and contribute to a more sustainable and resilient community. For further information on environmental compliance, visit the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, Illinois Department of Natural Resources, and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 5.