Forestry

Brush Collection & Tree Services

Below is information about the City of Elkhart’s brush collection program and tree services, including what is accepted, how to prepare materials, and how to request service.

🌿 Brush Collection Program

What is accepted?

One pile of branches no larger than 4 ft high, 4 ft wide, and 8 ft long
Branches and dead bushes trimmed by residents
Piles placed on the treelawn (between sidewalk and street)

What is NOT accepted?

Treated wood
Leaves, yard debris, or garden waste piles
Piles placed in alleyways
Commercial properties
Brush from hired tree services
Waste from lawn care companies
Properties outside City limits
Branches larger than 6 inches in diameter

Pickup Schedule

April – October: Weekly pickup
November – March: First full week of each month

If on schedule, brush is collected the same day as trash and recycling starting at 6:00 AM.

How to prepare your brush

Place brush at the curb the day before pickup
Do NOT place in the street
Keep in a single pile (max 4x4x8)
Keep separate from leaves and yard debris
Do not block with cars or trash cans

During storms, schedules may change to prioritize main roads.

Request a pickup

Submit a request through MyElkhart311 or call: 574-970-0542

🌲Tree Services

Tree Trimming

The City trims only trees located in the treelawn.

To request trimming:
Call: 574-970-0542
Submit on: MyElkhart311

Trees on private property must be handled by a private tree service.

Tree Removal

If you believe a City tree needs removal:

Contact Building & Grounds
The City Forester will inspect the tree
If approved, removal will be scheduled

Removal season: November – March
In some cases, a tree may be cut down earlier, but a stub (trunk) may remain until removal season.

Tree Planting

Tree planting requests can be made by:

Call: 574-970-0542 (ask for George, ext. 1303)
Submit on: MyElkhart311

Trees are planted in the treelawn only
Residents will be given tree options during spring planting season

Tree City USA

The City of Elkhart has been recognized as a Tree City USA community since 1989. This program recognizes communities that are committed to maintaining and improving their urban forest. Elkhart has received this designation for 36 consecutive years, making it one of the longest-recognized communities in Indiana.

Tree Emergencies

If a tree is blocking a road or sidewalk:

Call Communications immediately at 574-293-2175