Des Plaines, IL
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Code Enforcement
The City is responsible for ensuring compliance with a number of codes and regulations that include: buildings' structural and fire safety, general health and security and conservation of energy.
The City's Code Enforcement Officers conduct inspections and investigations per regulations and in response to complaints. Violators can face serious fines and court judgements if not properly addressed.
Code Enforcement Violation Process
Submitting a Violation, Complaint or Concern
The City will investigate various concerns reported by the public to ensure compliance with codes and regulations and take action against any violations. Violators may face fines. If you have a concern related to the following topics, please report it to Code Enforcement through: DP311 Citizen Request Portal, Code Enforcement email, or Code Enforcement phone line (847-391-5520).
- Nuisances
- Unsanitary food establishment
- Overcrowding in a housing unit
Public Nuisances
The City's Nuisances Code defines certain activities as nuisances and therefore illegal. Examples include: height of weeds, grass and plants, prohibited vegetation, inoperable motor vehicles, odors, animal refuse or carcasses, garbage, dumping, polluting water, offensive business, obstruction of highways, beekeeping, use of certain heavy equipment, excessive noise, offensive lights and other activities. Violators will face fines as defined in City code for different offenses.
Nuisance Weeds
Any weeds considered a nuisance must be cut/pulled or destroyed at least monthly between May 1 and October 1 of each year.
The City will issue notice to violators and require compliance within five days. The City may take appropriate actions to abate the growth of nuisance weeds and recover costs at the property owner's or tenant's expense.
Code of Ordinances, 5-5-1, Nuisance Declared
Allowable Height of Weeds, Grass or Plants
Any weeds, grass or plants (other than trees, bushes, flowers, vegetables or other ornamental plants) higher than six inches (6") are considered a nuisance and must be abated.
The City will issue notice to violators and require compliance within five days. The City may take appropriate actions to abate the growth in excess of six inches (6") and recover costs at the property owner's or tenant's expense.
Code of Ordinances, 5-5-4, Allowable Height of Weeds, Grass or Plants