Native Plants: Bolingbrook vs Joliet
How do native plants rules compare between Bolingbrook, IL and Joliet, IL?
Bolingbrook and Joliet have similar restriction levels.
Bolingbrook, IL
Will County
Illinois has no state-level mandate for native plants, but Will County and Forest Preserve District actively promote prairie restoration near Midewin. Municipal weed ordinances exempt managed native plantings. HOA restrictions on native plants remain enforceable unlike many western states.
View full Bolingbrook rules →Joliet, IL
Will County
Joliet does not mandate native plant use in residential landscaping. The city maintains an Approved Tree List for parkway tree planting through the Forestry Division but does not require native species for private property landscaping. Illinois does not have a statewide native plant requirement for residential properties.
View full Joliet rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bolingbrook | Joliet |
|---|---|---|
| State Protection | None for HOA cases | - |
| Weed Exemption | Managed native plantings OK | - |
| Forest Preserve | Midewin native prairie | - |
| Stormwater BMP | Natives credited under SMO | - |
| Documentation | Management plan recommended | - |
| Native Plant Mandate | - | None for residential properties |
| Approved Tree List | - | Maintained by Forestry Division for parkway trees |
| Private Landscaping | - | No species restrictions; maintenance standards apply |
| Commercial Development | - | Landscaping reviewed during site plan approval |
| State Requirement | - | Illinois has no statewide native plant mandate |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bolingbrook FAQ
Can my Plainfield HOA ban my native prairie garden?
Potentially yes. Illinois lacks the state-level native plant protections that states like Florida (§720.3075) have. HOA covenants are generally enforceable unless they conflict with state or federal law.
Will Joliet cite me for tall native plants?
Not if you document the area as intentional cultivated landscaping with a management plan, maintain clear boundaries, and remove invasive species. Unmanaged weeds over 8 inches violate Code §18-54.
Joliet FAQ
Does Joliet require native plants in residential landscaping?
No. Joliet does not mandate native plant use on private property. Residents must meet general property maintenance standards but can choose their preferred plant species.
What trees can I plant on my Joliet parkway?
The Joliet Forestry Division maintains an Approved Tree List for parkway plantings. Contact the Department of Public Works or check the city website for the current approved species.
Are prairie gardens or native plant gardens allowed in Joliet?
Yes. Native plant gardens are allowed on private property. They must comply with property maintenance standards, particularly regarding lawn height and appearance.
Compare other topics
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