Arlington Heights, IL Landscaping Rules: Native Plants (2026)

Arlington Heights permits residents to use native plants, prairie grasses, and wildflowers in residential landscaping. There is no ordinance requiring traditional turf lawns. The Village's property maintenance code requires properties to be maintained in a neat condition, which means native plantings should appear intentional with clear borders, defined planting beds, and regular maintenance. Unkempt areas of native vegetation without visible maintenance may be cited as weed violations. Native species appropriate for the Arlington Heights area (USDA Zone 5b) include prairie dropseed, little bluestem, switchgrass, black-eyed Susan, purple coneflower, wild bergamot, and New England aster. Rain gardens using native plants help manage stormwater runoff, which benefits the Salt Creek and McDonald Creek watersheds that drain through the community. The Village does not offer rebates or incentives for native landscaping conversion. A mowed border strip of at least 18 inches along sidewalks, driveways, and property lines is recommended to demonstrate intentional management. The Cook County Forest Preserve District maintains natural areas near Arlington Heights that can serve as models for native landscaping.