Lombard Code Enforcement Team Assists in Neighbor Relations

“Take a look around your property, including behind your garage or shed, to see what your neighbor sees,” said Joan Rogers, Code Enforcement Coordinator. “Common problems are grass/weeds, litter, and inactive vehicles,” she added.

Municipalities pass laws to establish minimum standards. While we all have varying abilities to maintain property and we all need to be tolerant of differences, there is a point at which unsightly becomes illegal, according to Rogers.

Grass and weeds become illegal when they exceed eight inches in height. Rogers advises to “cut the grass regularly and remove weeds the mower cannot reach. If you are going to be away for an extended period, make arrangements to have the grass cut. An occasional lapse in mowing, while unsightly, is not illegal until the eight inch standard is exceeded,” she said.

Discarded items stored behind a shed often generate calls to Code Enforcement. Most often, the owners have forgotten about the items which are hidden from their view, but are causing a nuisance to neighbors. “Walk around the property occasionally and remove accumulated items such as newspapers and debris before they become a problem,” Rogers said. “Keeping waste containers covered at all times also helps prevent debris from being scattered by animals or by the wind. Toys, while sometimes scattered about, are not considered litter,” she added.

Inactive vehicles (any vehicle that is not street ready by reason of expired license plates, mechanical failure, or flat tires) are not permitted in public view in Lombard.

A resident with an inactive vehicle he or she wishes to keep is asked to store them in a garage. “If you don't want to keep it, consider donating it to get a full market value tax benefit,” Rogers suggested. Residents may check online or in newspapers to find charitable organizations in need of donated vehicles. “If you want a car towed, but do not have the title, call a towing company with a relocator's license,” she added.

Being a good neighbor goes beyond minimum standards. It requires that everyone is respectful of each other. It is usually best for neighbors to talk to each other about these problems, but if the services of the Code Enforcement Division are needed, call

(630) 620-5749.