Landscaping Rules in Arlington Heights, IL (2026)
8 verified landscaping rules for Arlington Heights, Illinois, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Grass Height Limits
Arlington Heights requires property owners to maintain grass and vegetation at a reasonable height. The Village's property maintenance code sets a maximum grass height, typically 8 inches, before code enforcement may issue a violation. Properties with overgrown vegetation are subject to notice, and if not corrected, the Village may mow the property and bill the owner.
Arlington Heights Grass Height Limits
Some RestrictionsTree Trimming
Arlington Heights requires property owners to maintain trees on their property so branches do not obstruct sidewalks, streets, or sight lines. The Village's Forestry Division manages public parkway trees and has authority over trimming and removal of trees in the public right-of-way. Residents may not trim or remove parkway trees without Village authorization.
Arlington Heights Tree Trimming Regulations
Some RestrictionsTree Removal & Heritage Trees
Arlington Heights regulates the removal of trees, particularly those on public property and in the parkway. The Village's Forestry Division manages parkway tree removal and replacement. Removal of private trees generally does not require a Village permit, but significant trees on private property may be subject to review in connection with development projects. The Village does not have a formal heritage or landmark tree program.
Arlington Heights Tree Removal & Heritage Trees
Some RestrictionsWeed Ordinances
Arlington Heights requires property owners to control weeds and maintain property free of overgrown vegetation. The Village's property maintenance code treats excessive weeds the same as overgrown grass, with an 8-inch height threshold triggering enforcement. Noxious weeds must be eliminated regardless of height. The Village may abate weed violations and charge the property owner.
Arlington Heights Weed Control Ordinance
Some RestrictionsWater Restrictions
Arlington Heights does not impose permanent odd/even watering schedules or year-round lawn irrigation restrictions. The Village purchases Lake Michigan water from the Northwest Suburban Municipal Joint Action Water Agency. Temporary watering restrictions may be implemented during drought conditions or water supply emergencies. The Village encourages water conservation but does not mandate specific watering days under normal conditions.
Arlington Heights Water Use & Irrigation Restrictions
Few RestrictionsRainwater Harvesting
Arlington Heights does not prohibit rainwater harvesting. Illinois state law affirmatively permits rainwater collection, and the Village does not impose restrictions on residential rain barrels or cisterns. Rainwater harvesting is encouraged as a stormwater management practice given the Village's location in the Salt Creek and McDonald Creek watersheds. No permit is required for standard residential rain barrels.
Arlington Heights Rainwater Harvesting Rules
Few RestrictionsNative Plants
Arlington Heights does not restrict the use of native plants in residential landscaping. Residents may replace traditional turf lawns with native prairie grasses, wildflowers, and other indigenous species. The Village's property maintenance code requires yards to be maintained, and native plantings must appear intentional and cared for. Illinois law does not prohibit native landscaping.
Arlington Heights Native Plants & Landscaping
Few RestrictionsArtificial Turf
Arlington Heights does not have a specific ordinance regulating artificial turf installation on residential property. Synthetic grass is permitted as an alternative to natural lawns. A Village permit is not typically required for artificial turf installation unless significant grading or drainage work is involved. The Village does not offer turf replacement rebates.
Arlington Heights Artificial Turf Regulations
Few RestrictionsLooking for Cook County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Arlington Heights city rules.
Landscaping Rules in Cook County →