Chicago, IL Invasive Plant Rules: Prohibited Species (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- MCC § 11-4-3020
- Enforcing agency
- Dept. of Business Affairs & Consumer Protection
- Business fine
- $1,500–$3,000 per offense
- Individual fine
- $100–$500 per offense
- List basis
- Commissioner rulemaking, § 11-4-3010
Summary
Chicago bans importing, selling, or possessing viable material from any commissioner-listed invasive plant species citywide.
(a) It shall be unlawful for any person to do the following: ... (2) Import, sell, transport, own, keep or otherwise possess any viable plant material from a regulated plant species within the city; or (3) Release or introduce into the environment anywhere within the city any live or viable regulated invasive species or viable plant material from a regulated plant species.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-74: Current through Council Journal of June 17, 2026).
Full Breakdown
Under MCC § 11-4-3020, it's illegal to import, sell, transport, own, keep, or possess viable plant material from a species the Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection has placed on its regulated invasive species list, and illegal to release such material anywhere in the city. The commissioner (per § 11-4-3010) maintains and updates the list based on ecosystem impact, wildlife hazard, disease risk, and commercial value, with public notice before additions except in emergencies. Exemptions exist for zoological, educational, medical, or scientific use and for state/federal-permitted activity, but licenses must be displayed and made available for inspection.
Violations & Fines
Businesses/licensees: $1,500-$3,000 per offense (§ 11-4-3030(c)(i)); individuals: $100-$500 per offense; commissioner may also issue an emergency abatement order requiring surrender or destruction of the plant material.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which plants are banned in Chicago?
Can I keep an invasive plant for research?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Chicago
Compare Chicago to another location·View the Illinois invasive plant rules overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
Prohibited Species in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Cook County handle prohibited species.