I just received a citation for “parking on an unapproved surface.” What does this mean and how long do I have to pay it?

Citations (or parking tickets) are issued without any prior notice by a code enforcement officer for vehicles parked on the grass or evidence thereof, such as tire ruts in the grass. Parking on the grass is not permitted at any time. The enforcement of this ordinance exists without exception, so make certain that no portion of your vehicles—or even your guests’—are parked on grass, even if only for a short time. An approved surface suitable for parking is a hard surface—such as an asphalt or concrete driveway—that is able to withstand vehicle wear and tear in all weather conditions. A citation may also be issued for failure to remove inoperable and/or unlicensed vehicles, trailers or brush in parkway or for failure to maintain your grass under 8 (eight) inches in height. If you are issued a citation, you have 10 days to pay the fine of $50.00 by mail with a check or in person with cash, check or credit/debit. If paid after 10 days from the date of issue, the fine will double to $100.00.

My driveway is very narrow. Am I allowed to park on the grass?

Parking on the grass is never allowed and will result in a citation with a $50.00 fine. Evidence of grass parking, such as tire ruts, is also a violation of City ordinance and will result in enforcement action. Note that unpaid tickets will double to $100.00 after 10 days.

I have a car with a flat tire that I plan to have repaired. Is it okay to leave it on the driveway until I do so?

City Code does not allow unlicensed or inoperable vehicles to be stored outside. Please repair the vehicle (or renew the license) immediately or store it inside your garage.

Am I allowed to store a recreational vehicle on my property?

You may park one RV (with no other commercial vehicles present) on a paved surface in the front yard from April 15th to October 15th. During winter months it must be stored on a paved surface in the backyard, (in a garage).

Am I allowed to park my commercial vehicles on my property?

You are allowed to store only one commercial vehicle outdoors, so long as it does not exceed 8,000 lbs and has a B-truck or lower license plate. Additional vehicles or any that exceed the weight limits must be stored in an enclosed structure.

Am I allowed to keep live chickens?

The City does not allow for any chickens or similar fowl or farm or exotic animals to be kept by homeowners. Additionally, the maximum number of pets allowed per household is four.

The property next door appears to be abandoned. What should I do?

Please call our office right away if you notice that the property is unsecured, unkempt, or if the grass and weeds consistently exceed 8 inches in height.

I just received a Notice of Ordinance Violation for tall grass. Why?

Keeping your lawn cut not only makes your neighborhood more attractive, it inhibits pests such as mosquitos, insects and other small animals, too. City ordinance requires you to keep your grass length maintained at 8 inches or below. Be sure to also keep any landscaped areas neat, with shrubs and plantings well maintained. If you receive a Notice of Ordinance Violation for tall grass or weeds, please be sure to cut it within the 7 day time period given so that no further enforcement action will result.

I try to keep my home and property neat and tidy, so I was surprised to receive a Notice to repaint my shed. Why is this considered a code violation?

Chipping, peeling or even fading paint or stain on your home, deck or shed is a sign that the protective surface is failing. If wood is exposed to the elements, it is more likely to warp or rot, which could lead to serious problems. Code enforcement tries to alert you in a proactive way if any signs of paint failure are observed.

Why am I required to remove a dead tree?

Dead trees can result in very serious consequences for homeowners, passersby and property if branches or limbs or even trunks were to fall. It is important to have the tree removed by a qualified individual as soon as possible.

 

To file a complaint, call (630) 293-2200 extension 131 or 141  or email CommunityDev@westchicago.org. 

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Code Enforcement