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Aurora, IL Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Obstruction Rules (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified August 2026

Key Facts

Clearance required
10 feet above sidewalk
Vines/shrubs on walk
Prohibited outright
Violation class
Misdemeanor
Applies
Citywide, all 4 counties

Summary

Aurora, Illinois bans letting tree branches, shrubs, or vines hang lower than ten feet over a public sidewalk or obstruct its free use.

It shall be unlawful for any person to cause, suffer or permit the branches or parts of any tree, or any shrub or part thereof, hanging or being over any such sidewalk to be nearer thereto than ten (10) feet above the same, or to suffer or permit any vines, shrubbery or plants to grow or be on any such sidewalk or obstruct the free use thereof.

Full Breakdown

Aurora, Illinois Code § 42-52 makes it unlawful for anyone to cause, suffer, or permit tree branches or shrub parts hanging over a public sidewalk to hang lower than ten feet above it, or to let vines, shrubbery, or plants grow on a sidewalk or obstruct its free use. A related provision, § 42-49, separately bars using a public sidewalk to store goods, wares, or merchandise, or leaving items like a barrel, box, or crate on a sidewalk for more than one hour. Both apply citywide across Aurora's four counties (Kane, DuPage, Will, Kendall).

Violations & Fines

Violating the overhang or obstruction clearance is a misdemeanor; the division of streets and electricity may abate the obstruction, and separately storing goods on a sidewalk over one hour is also a misdemeanor with city removal at the owner's expense under § 42-49.

Frequently Asked Questions

How high must tree branches be over an Aurora, IL sidewalk?
At least ten feet, per Aurora Code § 42-52; lower branches, vines, or shrubs obstructing the walk are unlawful.
Can I store boxes or crates on the sidewalk in Aurora?
No. Separately, § 42-49 bars using a public sidewalk for storage of goods and sets a one-hour limit before removal.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Aurora

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Obstruction Rules in Nearby Cities

How other cities in this county handle obstruction rules.

Elgin, IL
Significant Restrictions