Mount Prospect, IL Property Maintenance: Vacant Lot Maintenance (2026)

Section 23.1403 of the Mount Prospect Village Code lists conditions that are nuisances within the territorial jurisdiction of the village and within one-half (1/2) mile of the corporate limits. Two items target unimproved land by name. Item O covers permitting 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 P covers causing or allowing soil, litter, debris, plant trimmings, or trash to accumulate on vacant lots or other property. Section 23.1401 defines WEEDS as any noxious weed and all grasses, annual plants and vegetation in excess of eight inches (8") (203 mm), excluding trees, shrubs and cultivated flowers and gardens.

The owner is defined broadly. Section 23.1401 counts all owners of record, including the person or entity to whom the last tax bill was sent, all beneficial owners and all purchasers under articles of agreement or similar contract. The responsible party includes owners, tenants, occupiers, property managers and lessees, and Section 23.1402 makes each obligation the joint and several liability of every owner and responsible party.

Section 23.1404 sets the abatement procedure. The person to whom the last general tax bill was sent is presumed to be the owner, and notice by regular mail plus posting sufficiently notifies the owner and all other responsible parties. For land without a building, the notice can be a sign posted anywhere on the premises. The notice states the location and nature of the nuisance and gives fourteen (14) days to abate unless the code says otherwise or public health and safety require a shorter period. If the owner fails to act, the Village can abate the nuisance and assess the cost against the land. That cost is a lien on the real property, superior to all subsequent liens and encumbrances, enforceable by foreclosure as in mortgages or mechanic's liens, and released on payment. For a nuisance that threatens community welfare and safety, the village manager can order immediate abatement.