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

Matteson’s green waste management program is designed to protect local waterways and comply with state environmental regulations. Yard waste collection typically runs from April through November, with residents required to use paper yard waste bags or clearly labeled rigid containers—plastic bags are not accepted. Acceptable materials include grass clippings, leaves, small branches, and other organic debris. For larger brush, bundles must be tied with twine and not exceed 4 feet in length. Drop-off sites and composting facilities are available for residents, often requiring a village sticker or permit for access. Commercial landscapers must adhere to disposal requirements and may be subject to fees. It is strictly prohibited to dispose of lawn waste in streets, alleys, or storm drains, as this can lead to water quality violations under the Illinois Environmental Protection Act (415 ILCS 5), impacting the Lake Michigan watershed.

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

Lawn Care Regulations & Permits in Matteson, IL

Lawn care in Matteson is governed by a comprehensive regulatory framework to ensure environmental protection and community safety. The Illinois Fertilizer Act (505 ILCS 80) restricts phosphorus use on established lawns unless a soil test indicates deficiency or for new lawns. Fertilizer application is prohibited near water bodies, with buffer zones of 10-25 feet. Pesticide use is regulated under the Illinois Pesticide Act (415 ILCS 60), requiring commercial applicator licensing and notification postings. Outdoor watering is subject to local ordinances, often following odd/even address schedules and time-of-day restrictions to conserve water. Noise ordinances limit equipment operation to 7:00 AM–9:00 PM on weekdays and 8:00 AM–9:00 PM on Saturdays, with further restrictions on Sundays and holidays. Commercial operators must register with the village, maintain liability insurance, and ensure worker certifications.

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

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve in Matteson, IL?

Matteson’s neighborhoods each present unique lawn care challenges due to variations in soil, microclimate, and community standards. The Old Matteson Historic District features mature tree canopies and smaller lots, with heavy clay soils and drainage issues. Butterfield Place and Gleneagle Trail subdivisions, developed post-2000, have larger lots but often shallow topsoil and compacted clay, requiring frequent aeration. The Lincoln Crossings area, near the Metra station, faces urban heat island effects and high foot traffic. Applewood and Holden Park neighborhoods are adjacent to forest preserves, necessitating buffer compliance and native plant integration. Brookmere and Ridgeland Manor, with established lawns and HOA guidelines, require careful adherence to aesthetic standards and underground utility awareness. Across Matteson, Kentucky bluegrass and tall fescue dominate, but shade from mature trees and sun exposure on open lots demand tailored turfgrass selection and maintenance.

Partnering With Matteson’s Environmental Commission for Sustainable Landscaping

The Matteson Environmental Commission plays a vital role in guiding sustainable landscaping and environmental stewardship. Coordination with the commission ensures compliance with wetland protection and buffer zone regulations, especially near sensitive areas. Sustainable practices promoted include:

• Organic lawn care methods
• Integration of native prairie plants and grasses
• Installation of rain gardens for stormwater management
• Proper mulching and grasscycling to reduce landfill waste Stormwater management is prioritized to prevent nutrient runoff into the Lake Michigan watershed, aligning with Clean Water Act and Illinois EPA Water Quality & Watershed Management requirements. The commission also collaborates with the Cook County Forest Preserve District and supports community tree planting, invasive species removal, and environmental education.

Matteson Environmental Commission
4900 Village Commons, Matteson, IL 60443
Phone: (708) 748-1411
Official Website: Matteson Commissions

Top Matteson Lawn Problems (and How We Solve Them)

Lawns in Matteson face several region-specific challenges due to climate, soil, and urban factors:

• Heavy clay soil compaction
• Alkaline pH (7.0–8.0+)
• Poor drainage and shallow topsoil
• Road salt damage near major roads
• Grub infestations (Japanese beetles, masked chafers)
• Fungal diseases (brown patch, snow mold)
• Drought and heat stress in summer Science-based solutions include:
• Core aeration at least twice annually to relieve compaction
• Soil testing via University of Illinois Extension and sulfur amendments for pH adjustment
• Installation of French drains or subsurface drainage for wet areas
• Overseeding with turf-type tall fescue for drought tolerance
• Integrated pest management and disease-resistant grass cultivars
• Proper mowing, watering, and fertilization practices tailored to local conditions
• Use of organic mulch and grasscycling to improve soil health and reduce waste

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

Matteson’s lawns are shaped by unique regional characteristics:

• USDA Hardiness Zone 5a–6a, with a growing season of 180–200 days
• Heavy clay soils (Drummer, Flanagan series) from glacial deposits, naturally alkaline and poorly drained
• Continental climate with temperature extremes and harsh winters
• Lake Michigan’s influence moderates temperatures and increases humidity
• High pest pressure from Japanese beetles, billbugs, and fungal diseases
• Historical suburban development with mature tree canopies and evolving landscaping trends
• Proximity to forest preserves and conservation areas requiring special stewardship These factors demand adaptive lawn care strategies, emphasizing soil improvement, climate resilience, and compliance with evolving environmental standards.

Supporting Local Events in Matteson With Lawn Expertise

Lawn care professionals play a key role in supporting Matteson’s vibrant community life:

• Preparation and maintenance of village green and town square lawns for summer festivals and farmers markets
• Athletic field care for youth sports leagues (Little League, soccer, football)
• Park beautification for public events and holiday celebrations
• Collaboration with the Parks & Recreation Department for volunteer cleanup days
• Emergency storm response and debris removal after severe weather
• Community education through Arbor Day, Earth Day, and garden club workshops These efforts help maintain safe, attractive public spaces and foster community pride.

Matteson Parks and Recreation Department
20642 Matteson Avenue, Matteson, IL 60443
Phone: (708) 441-4500
Official Website: Matteson Parks and Recreation Department

Eco-Friendly Landscaping Backed by Matteson’s Green Initiatives

Matteson’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its green landscaping initiatives:

• Participation in Tree City USA and local tree planting programs
• Water conservation through smart irrigation controllers and rain sensors
• Selection of drought-tolerant turfgrass blends and native plants
• Rainwater harvesting and xeriscaping for low-water landscapes
• Organic lawn care practices and pollinator-friendly plantings
• Transition to battery-powered equipment to reduce emissions and noise
• Grasscycling to minimize landfill waste and support soil health These practices align with Matteson’s climate action goals and contribute to a healthier, more resilient community landscape.

Proudly Serving These Streets and Areas in Matteson

Lawn care services in Matteson cover a diverse range of neighborhoods and landmarks:

• Downtown/Central: Old Matteson Historic District, Village Commons, Matteson Metra Station
• North: Butterfield Place, Gleneagle Trail, Applewood, Lincoln Crossings
• South: Brookmere, Ridgeland Manor, Holden Park, Southwick
• East: Allemong Estates, Woodgate, Matteson Elementary School area
• West: Creekside, Providence Manor, Matteson Plaza, Matteson Community Center
• Major roads: Cicero Avenue, Vollmer Road, Crawford Avenue, Route 30 (Lincoln Highway)
• Landmarks: Oakwood Park, Memorial Park, Matteson Public Library, Matteson Community Center
• Adjacent to forest preserves: Old Plank Road Trail, Gensburg-Markham Prairie, Cook County Forest Preserve access points Special considerations are given to areas with conservation easements, HOA guidelines, and historic district requirements, ensuring compliance and environmental stewardship throughout the village.

Matteson Water Department
4900 Village Commons, Matteson, IL 60443
Phone: (708) 748-5123
Official Website: Matteson Water Department