(847) 530-1533 progressivetree.com
Equipment and Capabilities: Crane, Bucket Truck, Stump Grinder, Chipper
Emergency and Storm: Storm Cleanup, 24 Hour Emergency Response, Quick Response
Specialty Expertise: Works Near Power Lines, Conifer Specialist
Tree Services: Works Near Structures, Large Trees, Cabling Bracing, Stump Removal
Credentials and Trust: Family Owned, ISA Certified, Insured
Customer Experience: Affordable
Progressive Tree Service specializes in tree removal and affordable tree care services by ISA certified arborist, including: stump removal, tree trimming or pruning, tree shaping, cabling and bracing, and tree health care such as insect and disease management. We also offer 24 hour emergency tree service. Our newest service is mosquito control done by the application of organic treatment that creates a barrier around the protected area. We service Evanston and the northwest Chicago area. From emergency tree removal to winter pruning, Progressive Tree Service offers high quality work. We pay attention to the details, we try to save the tree even if it means a lower payout, we use highly experienced tree climbers and specialized equipment.
4.8 from 93 reviews
Based on reviews representing only 4% of total ratings
Progressive Tree Service in Chicago is best suited for properties where tree work is not a routine prune but a high-stakes, complex operation. Urban lots with limited space, trees growing near houses, fences, or power lines, and projects that demand crane access, bucket work, or stump grinding are where this outfit earns its keep. The company has repeatedly demonstrated the capability to handle large, hazardous removals, think 100-year-old or multi-story trees, without compromising neighboring structures. For homeowners facing emergencies after a storm, or owners negotiating permits and utility coordination, Progressive presents a compelling value: strong technical skill, responsive planning, and a clear pathway from inspection to completion. Budget-wise, the price point is consistently competitive for the Chicago market, especially given the depth of equipment and arborist expertise, though cases exist where clients encountered tighter timelines or tighter bids elsewhere. In short, Progressive is a practical, high-capability choice for complex jobs, not a bargain-basement option for simple trims.
Safety and cleanup standards stand as the centerpiece of Progressive’s operating ethos. The company routinely threads the needle around live power lines, coordinating with utility providers when necessary to protect both crews and the public. Several jobs showcase the heavy equipment mix, cranes, bucket trucks, wood chippers, stump grinders, and the ability to manipulate large specimens with precision in tight urban spaces. The presence of three certified arborists on staff reinforces a disciplined approach to risk assessment, pruning strategy, and structural integrity. On site, the team is noted for careful limb control, protective rigging, and stepwise, deliberate cutting that minimizes collateral damage to houses, fences, and landscaping. Post-work cleanup is consistently thorough, with many reviews praising spotless yards, hauled debris, and even the disposal of wood chips for landscaping purposes.
The workmanship on site frequently earns high marks for both technique and homeowner communication. Estimates are described as insightful, with crews able to translate arborist recommendations into actionable scopes without overselling. Clients repeatedly note that the team respects homeowner input while adhering to best-practice safety and tree-care principles. The on-site leadership, led by experienced foremen, exhibits composure under pressure, particularly on jobs with restricted access or multiple hazards. Turnaround times are often fast, with some projects moving from quote to complete in the same week, and many customers report that the work was finished on or ahead of schedule. Overall, Progressive’s craft feels deliberate and educated, backed by verifiable credentials and a track record of preserving property while removing risk-laden trees.
Reliability and communication are a defining strength, but not without occasional blemishes. The verdict across hundreds of reviews emphasizes prompt responses, clear quotes, and steady updates from start to finish. The firm’s ability to secure authorization letters, insurance documents, and scheduling details before mobilizing is repeatedly highlighted as a comfort when dealing with high-stakes, hazardous removals. A number of clients recount emergency responses that arrive within hours and conclude with minimal disruption. However, a few reviews note a missed appointment or a lapse in follow-through on a remaining task, which underscores the importance of locking in a written scope, a firm start date, and explicit expectations about post-job tasks such as stump grinding, fence repair, or debris removal. When issues arose, the company’s leadership generally responded with accountability and a plan to make things right, a sign of genuine ownership in a tight, service-intensive trade.
Red flags are not absent, and prospective customers should enter discussions with a plan to protect property and time. One reviewer reports a no-show for a scheduled removal, highlighting the risk of an operational hiccup in busy seasons. Another account describes property damage to potted plants and decking when crews worked on neighboring property, a reminder that even expert teams must maintain strict access boundaries and site protocols. A separate critique concerns a dispute over a non-core product sold by the company, illustrating that trust extends beyond tree work into all interactions. These caveats matter: confirm written scope, insist on ground protection measures, and request a designated foreman who will be responsible for coordinating with homeowners and neighbors. Thoroughly review the proposed methods, especially when cranes, rigging, and near-structure work are involved, and confirm that stump grinding, cleanup, and any necessary fencing or landscaping repairs are explicitly included.
The bottom line is that Progressive Tree Service stands as a standout option for Chicago property owners facing demanding tree work. For homeowners with mature trees in tight quarters, elevated risk, or near critical infrastructure, the combination of skilled arborists, crane-enabled removals, and meticulous cleanup translates into tangible peace of mind. The firm’s strengths, rapid response after storms, precise execution, and professional follow-through, often turn challenging projects into straightforward success stories. The strongest buyers are those who value technical mastery, transparent communication, and thorough site protection as non-negotiables, and who are prepared to invest in a comprehensive solution rather than a quick cut or quick quote. In a city where space is limited and safety is paramount, Progressive Tree Service delivers the serious, well-coordinated service that complex arbor tasks demand.
For decision-makers weighing options, Progressive is highly recommended for large removals, high-risk pruning, and projects involving near-line hazards or constrained sites. The company’s documented strengths in safety planning, equipment-enabled efficiency, and clean, professional finishes position it above many competitors in the Chicago market. To maximize leverage, request a certified arborist to assess the tree in question, obtain a written scope detailing crane access, stump grinding, and cleanup, and insist on a single point of contact for scheduling and updates. If a project involves emergency stabilization, dangerous limbs, or a multi-tree strategy that must protect surrounding structures, Progressive Tree Service is the pragmatic, capable partner trusted by neighbors, property managers, and discerning homeowners alike.
Crane-assisted removal for trees that can't be conventionally climbed or sectioned - ideal for extremely large, hazardous, or tightly situated trees.
Crane-equipped crews enable Progressive Tree Service to lift and lower massive trees in tight Chicago-area yards without touching nearby structures. Customers repeatedly note removals of multi-story trees—such as 6–7 story cottonwoods—are completed with precision thanks to the crane alongside seasoned climbers. They frequently coordinate with utility providers like ComEd when power lines are involved, ensuring safe clearance and proper protocol. The crane allows careful lowering of limbs to minimize damage to yards and neighboring properties, followed by stump grinding and thorough cleanup. In Evanston and NW Chicago, clients praise the team's responsiveness and ability to handle challenging removals in restricted spaces. Overall, crane capability is a standout element of their service, complementing the company's ISA-certified arborists and comprehensive tree care.
Uses an aerial bucket truck for safe, efficient access to tall or hard-to-reach branches. Faster and more stable than climbing for many jobs.
Bucket truck access enables safe handling of tall trees in tight Chicago-area yards, including Evanston and the northwest Chicago region. Louis, who operated the bucket truck, shaped a very large mature Cypress with precise, homeowner-responsive workmanship. They routinely coordinate with utilities like ComEd when trees overhang lines, proving they can cut around power infrastructure without compromising safety. In restricted spaces between houses or near fences and roofs, the bucket truck (often alongside a crane) lets them reach high limbs, lower material safely, and complete removals with minimal disruption. Clients repeatedly highlight fast response, professional crews, and spotless cleanup made possible by the bucket truck and the full suite of equipment.
Equipped with stump grinding machinery to eliminate leftover stumps after removal. Leaves your yard clean and ready for replanting or landscaping.
Stump grinding is a core capability, with crews on site equipped to grind stumps down as part of the tree removal process. In Evanston and the northwest Chicago area, customers consistently report that the stump is ground and the site is cleaned up as part of the same job, leaving little to no trace. One project notably finished stump grinding and site cleanup by noon, illustrating speed and efficiency. They often leave landscaping woodchips from the grind, providing a value-added finish to the job. Even in tight spaces or near structures and power lines, the team uses specialized equipment and careful technique to perform precise stump grinding with thorough cleanup.
On-site wood chipping turns bulky brush and branches into manageable mulch. Efficient cleanup and an option to keep the chips for your garden.
On-site wood chipping is a core capability, turning branches and limbs into mulch during removals. Customers frequently note that the chipped material is left for landscaping, not just hauled away, illustrating the chipper’s practical output. This on-site processing pairs well with crane-assisted removals in tight or hazardous spaces, including near power lines, where crews cut around lines and minimize risk. Having their own equipment—crane, bucket truck, stump grinder, and wood chipper—helps Progressive Tree Service deliver efficient work and thorough cleanup throughout Evanston and the northwest Chicago area. Overall, the chipper capability supports fast, clean, and customer-friendly executions on complex jobs.
Ready to respond after high winds, ice storms, or heavy snow bring trees and limbs down across your property.
Storm cleanup capability centers on rapid, safe removal of hazardous trees in tight spaces and near structures. Customers repeatedly report fast response after storms—evaluations and urgent work often happening within hours or the next day, with crews on-site to remove debris and secure the site. They regularly handle trees leaning over roofs or power lines, coordinating with utility providers like ComEd to ensure safe cuts and protect lines. They deploy cranes and bucket trucks to reach high or awkwardly placed trees, enabling precise cuts around power lines and structures and thorough cleanup, including stump grinding when needed. In Evanston and the northwest Chicago area, homeowners consistently praise their professionalism, clear communication, and meticulous cleanup during storm-related work.
Available around the clock for dangerous situations - a tree on your roof, a limb blocking your driveway, or a trunk threatening to fall. Day or night.
Emergency-response capability is consistently rapid and well-organized, with crews on site within hours of contact and many jobs completed the same day after a storm. In urgent situations where trees threaten roofs, fences, or power lines, crews deploy a crane and bucket truck and coordinate with utilities like ComEd to ensure safe clearance around lines. Clients repeatedly note quick, professional assessments and swift removal, often arriving the next morning or within a few hours of the initial call. Property protection and thorough cleanup are emphasized, with many jobs leaving yards and driveways spotless and undamaged. Serving Evanston and the northwest Chicago area, the team combines ISA-certified arborists, a family-owned approach, and 24-hour emergency service to handle high-risk removals and work near structures or power lines efficiently and safely.
Fast to answer calls and quick to schedule. Whether it's routine work or an urgent situation, these businesses don't leave you waiting.
Rapid-response capability is a standout trait, with customers noting same-day or next-day visits after they reach out. In urgent storm situations, crews can be on site within hours, sometimes arriving within a few hours and starting work promptly. They arrive with a full team and the right gear—crane, bucket truck, and stump grinder—to handle complex removals near structures or power lines without delay. The company also coordinates with utility providers (for example, ComEd) to ensure safe work when lines are involved. This level of speed and coordination is frequently observed by Evanston and northwest Chicago-area clients, who value prompt estimates, swift scheduling, and careful, clean execution.
Trained and equipped to work near energized power lines. This specialized work requires specific qualifications - not every company should attempt it.
Power-line proximity is a core capability, with crews routinely cutting around lines and avoiding contact. They coordinate with ComEd to ensure proper procedures when lines are involved. The team relies on crane and bucket truck work, enabling safe lifting, precise removals, and controlled lowering near infrastructure. Customers consistently note safe, accurate pruning and removals in tight spaces, even when lines run between structures, with minimal disturbance and thorough cleanup. The crew demonstrates fast, professional service during emergencies near power lines, while maintaining clear communication from estimate through completion.
Deep knowledge of pines, firs, spruces, cedars, and other conifers - including their growth habits, diseases, and the timing of proper trimming.
Conifer pruning and shaping is a core strength, as shown by Louis operating the bucket truck to perfectly shape a very large, mature Cypress. They handle high-stakes conifer work in tight urban spaces, successfully trimming and sculpting near structures and power lines by cutting around ComEd lines. The crew includes ISA-certified arborists on staff, enabling informed decisions on pruning, cabling, and overall conifer health. Work is described as graceful pruning with careful deadwood removal and meticulous cleanup, leaving the property looking better than before. Across Evanston and the northwest Chicago area, homeowners rely on Progressive Tree Service for conifer-related care—from delicate shaping of large evergreens to decisive removals when needed, all with clear communication.
Skilled at working in tight spaces where trees sit close to homes, fences, garages, or power lines. Precision removal without damage to surrounding structures.
Handling work near structures is a central strength of Progressive Tree Service in Evanston and the northwest Chicago area. They routinely remove or prune trees that overhang roofs, driveways, fences, and even power lines, coordinating with utility providers like ComEd to keep lines safe. Their crews use cranes and bucket trucks to access tight spaces and carefully cut around lines and buildings, often lowering large limbs without touching houses or other structures. Across projects, they protect yards, decks, and landscaping, and follow through with thorough cleanup so the site looks as good as before—sometimes even restoring damaged areas or replacing sections as needed. Guided by ISA-certified arborists, they balance safety and tree health in challenging near-structure scenarios, delivering reliable, precise results in the Evanston area.
Experienced handling oversized trees - tall, wide, or heavily branched. Removing or trimming a large tree requires specialized skill and equipment, and these pros have both.
They routinely handle large_tree removals in tight Chicago-area spaces, including between houses and near power lines. A standout example is the removal of a massive cottonwood easily 6–7 stories tall, accomplished with a crane and careful lowering to protect surrounding structures. In Evanston and the northwest Chicago area, they've pruned and removed 100+ ft elms and other very tall trees with limited access. They coordinate with utilities such as ComEd to ensure safe operation when lines are involved. Cleanup is thorough—stump grinding, debris removal, and site restoration, often leaving wood chips for landscaping. The crew includes ISA-certified arborists and experienced climbers who listen to homeowners, work quickly yet safely, and maintain clear communication throughout the project.
Installs steel cables or braces to support weak branch unions, co-dominant stems, or leaning trunks - extending the life of a tree you don't want to lose.
Cabling and bracing are approached with precision when a tree’s structure is at risk or when limbs sit near utilities. Customers repeatedly note the ability to work around power lines and structures, coordinating with ComEd to ensure safe, proper work in tight spaces. With ISA-certified arborists on staff and crews that include crane and bucket truck operators, Progressive Tree Service can implement stabilizing measures rather than default to removal when feasible. Their process is collaborative and deliberate, offering clear options and on-site evaluations to determine where cabling or bracing can save a tree while keeping people and property safe. The results consistently show careful protection of yards and nearby structures, followed by thorough cleanup even in challenging, near-structure scenarios.
Full stump extraction, root and all - not just grinding. Ideal when you need the area completely cleared for construction, landscaping, or replanting.
Stump removal is a core part of their service, typically paired with on-site stump grinding and complete site cleanup after a tree is removed. Clients frequently note that Progressive returns to grind the stump the next day, then clean up all grindings, leaving the yard ready for landscaping or easy reuse. They handle stump removal even in tight spaces or near structures and power lines, using cranes, bucket trucks, and specialized equipment to control cutting and protect surroundings. The team’s precision and coordination—often with a seasoned crew and clear communication—make stump removal feel efficient and safe, with minimal disruption to the property or neighboring areas. Overall, customers view Progressive’s stump removal as thorough, reliable, and fairly priced in the Evanston and northwest Chicago area.
A business built and run by family, often passed down or grown from the ground up. Personal accountability and pride in every job.
As a family-owned operation, Progressive Tree Service brings a cohesive, hands-on approach that customers describe as personally invested and highly accountable. Front office and field crews consist of brothers, sisters, and cousins, creating a consistent culture of care, quality, and follow-through from estimate to clean-up. One of Progressive’s owners personally stopped by a project in the morning to check progress, underscoring a commitment that goes beyond typical contractor turnover. In Evanston and the northwest Chicago area, the family team coordinates with utilities like ComEd to execute complex removals safely near power lines, reflecting deep local knowledge and a resolve to protect clients’ properties. The family-owned model also manifests in competitive pricing, clear communication, and thorough cleanup, delivering reliable, responsive service for both emergencies and routine tree care in urban Chicago environments.
Employs one or more ISA-certified arborists - credentialed professionals who've passed rigorous testing in tree care science and best practices.
ISA-certified arborist capability shows up clearly in client feedback as a core strength of Progressive Tree Service. Three Certified Arborists on staff are repeatedly cited by customers, underscoring a tree-educated approach to pruning, cabling and bracing, and careful risk assessment for complex removals. Clients point to individuals like David Conrad, described as an experienced, professional arborist/estimator, and Juan as knowledgeable and honest, with on-site leaders such as Eloy applying careful, certification-backed techniques around power lines. In Evanston and the northwest Chicago area, this ISA-aligned expertise enables safe handling of emergencies and removals near structures and electrical infrastructure, often with precise coordination (for example, with ComEd) and thorough cleanup. Overall, feedback consistently highlights safety, clear communication, fair pricing, and adherence to professional arborist standards associated with ISA certification.
Carries proper liability and workers' compensation insurance. If something goes wrong on your property, you're protected.
Coordinating with power utilities when trees are near lines is a clear strength, with examples of direct collaboration with ComEd to ensure safe and proper removals. They provide insurance documentation for the job up front, giving homeowners confidence that coverage and liability are in place. On staff are ISA-certified arborists, and crews include trained professionals operating a crane and other specialized equipment to safely access difficult locations. Clients consistently note that Progressive Tree Service protects yards and surrounding structures and follows through with thorough post-work cleanup. In urgent situations after storms, they respond quickly—often within hours—and remove hazardous trees without damaging nearby homes or utilities.
Competitive pricing without cutting corners. These arborists offer fair rates and transparent quotes, making professional tree care accessible for most budgets.
Affordability is a consistent highlight in customer feedback for Progressive Tree Service. Many clients report getting the best price or a low bid among multiple bids in Evanston and the northwest Chicago area, with quick, clear estimates and work completed on time and within budget. Their in-house fleet—including a crane, bucket truck, stump grinder, and wood chipper—helps keep costs down by enabling efficient, coordinated service without outsourcing. In tough jobs near power lines or in tight spaces, they deliver safe, careful removals at a price customers call affordable or reasonable. Coupled with ISA-certified arborists, a family-owned approach, and thorough cleanup, these patterns show a strong, location-aware capability to provide high-quality tree care at good value.