Brush Clearance: Des Plaines vs Orland Park
How do brush clearance rules compare between Des Plaines, IL and Orland Park, IL?
Des Plaines has fewer restrictions than Orland Park.
Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Des Plaines does not have a wildfire-driven brush clearance ordinance like western states. Property owners must keep vegetation maintained under the City's weeds and nuisance code (Title 4), with grass and weeds limited to 8 inches and dead trees and brush abated as a public nuisance. Riverfront properties have additional buffer rules.
View full Des Plaines rules →Orland Park, IL
Cook County
Orland Park requires property owners to keep weeds and rank vegetation cut to under 8 inches in height. Tall grass, weeds, and uncontrolled brush are enforced as a public nuisance with notice-and-abatement procedures and per-day fines for non-compliance.
View full Orland Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Des Plaines | Orland Park |
|---|---|---|
| Grass/Weed Limit | 8 inches | - |
| Wildfire Risk | Minimal (urban suburb) | - |
| Tree Permits | Required for parkway trees | - |
| Fine Range | $50–$500 | $50–$500 |
| Contact | (847) 391-5380 Code Enforcement | - |
| Maximum Height | - | 8 inches |
| Notice Period | - | 7–10 days to abate |
| Village Cutting Cost | - | $200–$500 typical |
| Code Enforcement | - | (708) 403-6100 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Des Plaines FAQ
Does Des Plaines require brush clearance for fire safety?
No. Des Plaines is a built-out suburb without wildfire risk and has no defensible-space brush-clearance rule. Vegetation is maintained under general weeds and nuisance provisions in Title 4.
How tall can grass and weeds get in Des Plaines?
Eight inches. Above that, the property may be cited and the City may abate at the owner's expense.
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Des Plaines?
Trees in the public parkway require a permit from Public Works at (847) 391-5390. Trees on private property typically do not, unless within a regulated riparian buffer.
Orland Park FAQ
How tall can my grass be in Orland Park IL?
Grass and weeds may not exceed 8 inches in height. Owners receive a notice giving 7 to 10 days to mow before fines and Village-performed cutting are imposed.
What if I don't mow after an Orland Park notice?
The Village can hire a contractor to cut the lot and lien the cost (usually $200–$500) against the property, plus issue fines of $50 to $500.
How do I report tall grass at a vacant property in Orland Park?
Contact Code Enforcement at (708) 403-6100. Provide the address; staff will inspect and issue a notice if the property exceeds 8 inches.
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