Code Enforcement 101

The purpose of the Code Enforcement Program is to promote the health, safety, and welfare of residents and properties within the Village of La Grange Park. The Code Enforcement Officer proactively enforces the adopted property maintenance codes, zoning codes and related ordinances throughout the Village. The Code Enforcement Officer also responds to complaints for suspected violations regarding property maintenance standards and other violations. This program helps preserve the value of buildings and properties through fair and equitable enforcement.

Report a possible violation. If you have received a violation notice or letter, contact us at 708-354-0225.

Common Violations

Permits & Construction

Performance of work without proper permitting. Accumulation of trash or debris surrounding a construction project.

Allowable hours for construction are as follows:

  • 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday
  • 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Weekends and holidays (Including New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day)

Garbage

Containers cannot be placed in the parkway area earlier than 6 p.m. on the day preceding pick-up. Empty containers must be removed from the parkway area no later than 7 a.m. the day after pick-up. Large items such as furniture placed in the parkway must have a garbage sticker for pick up. At all other times, garbage containers are required to be stored on the side or rear of the dwelling. When large items require more immediate disposal residents can call Lakeshore Recycling Systems (LRS) at 844-633-3577 and order a special pick up.

Vehicles

All vehicles must be operable, have valid license plates, and be parked on an approved hard surface of concrete or asphalt. In residential areas, motor vehicles may not at any time be in the process of being dismantled, disassembled, or in disrepair.

Weeds & Grass

Noxious weeds or grass in excess of 10 inches. Weeds are generally defined as all grasses, annual plants and vegetation over 10 inches high. Trees or shrubs, cultivated flowers and gardens are not included in the definition of weeds.

Structure & Property

All buildings, fences, sheds, decks, swimming pools and other structures should be properly maintained in a good and safe. All exterior surfaces should be free from holes, breaks, and loose or rotting materials; and maintained weatherproof and properly surface coated to prevent deterioration. All exterior property and premises, and the interior of every structure, should be free from any accumulation of rubbish or garbage. This includes tenants suspecting landlord violations (e.g. mold, interior maintenance, leaking, improper cleaning, temperature of the unit, rodents, etc.)

House Numbers

Missing or not visible from street. All house numbers must be in Arabic numerals at least 4 inches high and a half inch stroke and are required to be mounted on the principal structure. The numbers should be easily readable from the street for your safety and must be contrasting in color.

Roof Drains, Gutters & Downspout

These should be maintained in good repair, secured and free from obstructions. Roof water should not be discharged in a manner that creates a public nuisance nor shall discharge be directed towards a neighboring property.

General Code Enforcement Violation Procedures

Routine evaluation of the Village is done by the code enforcement officer to identify violations. The Village may also receive complaints from residents and other departments. The property is inspected to verify if complaints are valid and surveyed for other possible violations.

Written Notice

If a violation exists a written notice will be given indicating what violations are in need of correction and a compliance date for resolution; along with the inspectors contact information. Notice can come in the form of a “door hanger” left at the property or a letter mailed to the property owner. It is important to make contact with the inspector, the goal is to work together to develop an appropriate compliance plan with performance deadlines.

The property is inspected once again on or after the compliance date to determine status. If the violation is not corrected or resolved by the compliance date, the Village will issue a second notice of violation. If the violation remains a citation requiring an appearance with the Fifth District Circuit Court and payment of a fine will result.