Mount Prospect, IL Landscaping Rules: Weed Ordinances (2026)

The Village of Mount Prospect measures weeds by height. Section 23.1401 defines WEEDS to include any noxious weed and all grasses, annual plants and vegetation in excess of eight inches (8") (203 mm), and it specifically excludes trees, shrubs and cultivated flowers and gardens. The definition sits inside the nuisance article of Chapter 23, so the height figure works through Section 23.1403. Item O makes it a nuisance to permit weeds on vacant lots or other property, along public sidewalks or the outer edge of any public street, or weeds in any other location that constitute a fire hazard. Item S adds dead, decayed, diseased, or hazardous trees, weeds, hedges, and overgrown or uncultivated vegetation that are in or create a hazardous condition, obstruct pedestrian or vehicular traffic, are conducive to crime, or are likely to harbor rats, vermin, or other pests. The list reaches conduct within the territorial jurisdiction of the village and within one-half (1/2) mile of the corporate limits.

Section 23.1401(B) makes it unlawful to maintain a nuisance. Section 23.1402 makes every obligation the joint and several liability of every owner and responsible party, a term that includes owners, tenants, occupiers, property managers and lessees. Section 23.1404 sets the abatement steps. The Village gives notice to the owner by regular mail and by posting at the front entrance to the structure or a similar location. The notice states the location and nature of the nuisance and allows fourteen (14) days to abate unless the code says otherwise or public health and safety require a shorter period. The owner's obligations are continuing for one year from the date of the notice.

If the owner does not abate in time, the Village can abate the nuisance as it deems appropriate and assess the cost against the land. Fees, costs and charges become a lien on the real property, superior to all subsequent liens and encumbrances, and the notice of lien is filed within two (2) years in the office of the Cook County recorder of deeds. The village manager can authorize immediate abatement of a nuisance that threatens the welfare and safety of the community.