Aurora, IL Landscaping Rules: Native Plants (2026)
Key Facts
- Allowed areas
- Detention, wetland, low-lying, open space
- Requirement
- Consultant species list + management plan
- Benefit
- Exempt from PM-302.4 mowing rule
- Governing section
- Code of Ordinances § 49-105.4
Summary
Aurora's zoning code lets developers use prairie-style naturalized plantings in stormwater and open-space areas instead of standard turf landscaping, with an approved plan.
Naturalized Planting Areas. The use of naturalized prairie style landscaping shall be encouraged adjacent to and within stormwater detention facilities, wetland, low-lying and inactive open space areas. These areas must meet the following criteria in addition to the City of Aurora's Wetland and Naturalized Planting Standards in order to remove said areas from the above stated requirements. These areas shall not be subject to Section PM-302.4 of the Property Standard Ordinance if maintained pursuant to said management plan.
Full Breakdown
Aurora, Illinois (Kane County) zoning encourages naturalized prairie-style landscaping adjacent to and within stormwater detention facilities, wetlands, low-lying areas, and inactive open space, in place of the turf and canopy-tree standards that otherwise apply under the city's landscaping section. To qualify, a developer must submit a detailed species list and management plan prepared by a consultant along with the required Landscape Plan, meeting the city's Wetland and Naturalized Planting Standards. Areas maintained under an approved plan are exempt from the mowing height rule in Section PM-302.4 of the Property Standard Ordinance. The allowance applies to development citywide, in any of Aurora's four counties.
Violations & Fines
Naturalized plantings installed without an approved management plan and species list don't qualify for the mowing exemption and remain subject to the standard turf and height rules the city enforces under its Property Standard Ordinance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I plant a prairie-style garden instead of turf in Aurora, IL?
Does naturalized landscaping still have to meet the city's mowing height rule?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Aurora
Compare Aurora to another location·View the Illinois landscaping rules overview
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Native Plants in Nearby Cities
How other cities in this county handle native plants.