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1. When is a building permit required?

A building permit is required for any commercial and residential construction projects that entail an addition or remodeling of the existing conditions. The following require a building permit:
- Fences Roofs
- Decks
- Porches
- Patios
- Garages
- Sheds

If in doubt please contact the Building Department at 847-719-7484.

You will not need a permit if you are making only cosmetic changes to your home. But if you are doing any electrical or plumbing work, a permit is required.

2. How do I obtain a building permit?

A permit can be obtained by visiting the Village Hall at 850 Waukegan Road or download an application for this website. 

General Permit Submission Information Form (PDF).

3. How much does a building permit cost?

The cost of the permit is generally based on the cost of the job; however there are other costs that may be included depending on the type of project which is planned. 

a list of fees.

4. How do I check on the status of a building permit application that I have submitted?

When you submit your building permit, you may be given an approximate plan review time. This review time will vary depending on the size of your project, the time of year, review of the drainage and grading plans by the Village Engineering Department as well as how many other permit applications are in line ahead of yours. Once plan review has begun on your permit application, the homeowner and contractor will be contacted if the plan reviewer has any questions or problems, or any additional information is needed.

Once your plans and permits have been approved, the homeowner and/or contractor will be notified that they are ready to be picked up, and of the total permit cost due. Plans and permit fees may be paid at the Village Hall. You may call the Building Department and ask what the status of your permit review is, but please keep in mind the approximate plan review time you were told when you submitted your plans was only an estimate on the departments work load at the time and unforeseen projects throughout the Village of Deerfield may have taken priority. Please keep in mind that the homeowner and the contractor will be called if there are questions or problems and will be called when the plans and permit are ready for pick up.

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1. What is the CivicReady service?

The CivicReady service allows authorized Village officials to create and rapidly disseminate time-sensitive messages to every landline, cellphone, and email address stored in the notification database. With the service, authorized users can contact thousands of residents and businesses in minutes. Only authorized officials are allowed access to the system.

2. How does the service work?

Authorized officials record or compose a voice message that is then delivered quickly to individual phones in the notification database.

3. What types of messages will be sent using the service?

Only emergency messages regarding the safety or welfare of our community would be disseminated using the CivicReady service. Examples may include severe weather warnings, hazardous road conditions, a boil water order. inside the Village or any other situation that could impact the safety, property, or welfare of residents.

4. Does the service replace other systems that have been used to provide time-sensitive information to residents?

This system is an enhancement to existing means of communication and is supplemental to, not a replacement for, systems such as the Village's outdoor siren system.

5. What precautions are being taken to protect personal information?

Privacy concerns are paramount. The Village and CivicReady will never sell, trade, lease or loan any data about its clients to any third party. From a technical perspective, CivicReady utilizes multiple physical and virtual layers of firewalls to maintain data security.

6. Will there be a way to positively identify incoming calls which are made by the Village using the system?

The caller-ID number for calls generated by the CivicReady service will be from a phone number with area code 224. In addition, messages will begin with a Village identifier For example: "Hello, this is a message from the Village of Deerfield with important safety information". The message content will follow this standard introduction.

7. My primary phone or my second listing is a cell phone with a non-local area code. Will the service call numbers outside the area?

Yes. The area code does not impact whether or not a call is made.

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1. How is coal tar regulated by the Village?

On April 2, 2018, the Village Board passed an ordinance banning the use and sale of coal tar pavement sealants and regulating the licensing of pavement sealant professionals.

2. What is the purpose of the ban?

The purpose of the ban is to regulate the use and sale of coal tar pavement sealants and licensing of pavement sealant professionals.

3. Who does the ban affect?

This ban affects pavement sealant professionals who work in Deerfield, businesses that could potentially sell coal tar based sealants and anyone paving or sealing a driveway or parking lot in the Village of Deerfield.

4. When does the ban take effect?

May 1, 2018

5. What is coal tar?

Coal tar is a thick, black or brown liquid that is a byproduct of the carbonization of coal for the steel industry or the gasification of coal to make coal gas. Coal tar is a byproduct of the coking of coal for the steel industry and coal-tar pitch is the residue remaining after the distillation of coal tar. Coal-tar pitch is 50 percent or more Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) by weight and are a potential concern for human health and aquatic life.

6. What are PAHs?

PAHs are a group of chemical compounds that form whenever anything with a carbon base is burned, from wood and gasoline to cigarettes and meat. PAHs also are in objects and materials, such as automobile tires and coal tar, the production of which involves the heating of carbon-based materials. PAHs are of environmental concern because several are toxic, carcinogenic, mutagenic, and/or teratogenic (causing birth defects) to aquatic life, and seven are probable human carcinogens. Exposure to PAHs, especially early in childhood, has been linked by health professionals to an increased risk of lung, skin, bladder and respiratory cancers.

7. What is coal tar used for?

Coal tar is used in certain pavement sealants. These type of sealants are no longer sold in local area home improvement stores (e.g. Home Depot) and are prohibited in the Village of Deerfield.

8. What’s the problem with coal tar sealants?

Coal-tar-based sealcoat products typically are 20 to 35 percent coal-tar pitch. Product analyses indicate that coal-tar-based sealcoat products contain about 1,000 times more PAHs than sealcoat products with an asphalt base.

9. What can I use instead of coal tar sealants?

Asphalt based sealants are a readily available alternative with less potential health concerns. Asphalt based sealants have been primarily used west of the Continental Divide for decades.

10. What if I want to pave my driveway myself and not hire a pavement sealant professional?

Homeowners that choose to sealcoat their driveway on their own and do not hire a pavement sealant professional do not need to obtain a license.

11. How do I know if a paver uses coal tar sealants?

Pavement sealant professionals working in Deerfield must possess a license with the Village and display a decal on the windshield of their vehicles. You may also ask a pavement sealant professional or contact the Village’s Community Development Department at 847.719.7484.

12. Do I need to be licensed to professionally pave driveways in the Village of Deerfield?

Yes. All pavement sealant professionals working in the Village of Deerfield must obtain a license from the Village prior to conducting any pavement sealing work.

13. How do I get a pavement sealant professional license?

Fill out an online pavement sealant professional license application form.  Once approved, you will receive a license.

14. How much does a pavement sealant professional license cost?

There is a $100 annual fee. Your license must be renewed each year.

15. What is the penalty for violating the ordinance?

Any person found guilty of violating the ordinance will face a daily fine of $50-$1,000. Pavement sealant professionals may also have their license revoked.

16. Who can I contact if I have questions?

Please contact the Community Development Department at 847.719.7484 with questions. You may also stop by in person at Village Hall (850 Waukegan Road).

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1. How do I know what size containers and level of service I need?

A Lakeshore representative will consult with you and your business to determine the most cost effective combination of container size and pick up frequency as well as the potential cost savings associated with recycling.

2. Can I select my container size and pick up frequency?

Yes. Each business is able to select the container size and pick up frequency that best meets their individual needs. Business are able to change their level of service, including changing the size of the collection containers and/or frequency of service, at no charge.

3. What if I need a new container?

Lakeshore will coordinate the delivery of containers for garbage and recycling service. If your container is deficient is someway due to regular wear and tear, contact Lakeshore Recycling Systems at 773-685-8811 or visit http://www.lrsrecycles.com/for-municipal/village-of-deerfield/

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1. Will I save money?

It is estimated that over 90% of the businesses saved money with the new rates, especially those that take advantage of the recycling option. The goal of the franchise is to support businesses through “economies of scale” to lower the rates.

2. Will I still have a service contract?

The terms of the contract including the rates, services offered (garbage/recycling/organics), recycling containers and customer service standards are established under the franchise. If necessary, Lakeshore will provide businesses with a service agreement as well.

3. Who will bill me for service?

Lakeshore Recycling Systems will bill you monthly for garbage and recycling services. Your bill will not include any additional fees or taxes from the Village of Deerfield.

4. What are the billing terms?

Lakeshore Recycling Systems standard billing terms are net 30 days. Please contact Lakeshore at 773-685-8811 to discuss alternate billing terms. Lakeshore reserves the right to assess a late penalty of 1.5% per month on accounts that are over 45 days past due, and suspend service to accounts with a past due balance of 60 days. If garbage is no longer being picked up you may receive a code enforcement violation from the Village of Deerfield as well.

5. Who do I call with service problems?

You will call Lakeshore at 773-685-8811 to report any service problems, request an additional pick up, or modify your garbage and recycling service including container size and/or pick up frequency.

6. What are rates for garbage service under the franchise?

Current rates are $8.04 per dwelling for once a week residential service collection. For condominium or townhouse containerized service, current rates are $2.32 per month, per unit.

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1. What is a franchise?

A franchise is an exclusive contract awarded to a private company to provide service. In this case, the franchise will apply to garbage and recycling services for all commercial accounts in the Village. The Village of Deerfield has the authority to issue a franchise by state statute and is utilizing this ability to provide “economies of scale” in pricing for businesses.

2. When did the franchise begin?

The franchise began on May 1, 2015. In accordance with state statute (65 ILCS 5/19 - 11 - 1) the Village and the service provider exercised a 15 month waiting period between the award of the franchise and the start of the franchise service.

3. Who is the Village's service provider and what is the term of the franchise?

The contractor is Lakeshore Recycling Systems, Inc. and the term of the franchise is 5 years (2015 - 2020).

4. Who is included in the franchise?

All businesses are included in the franchise with the exception of home-based businesses, which are currently included in the Village’s residential franchise. The Village has incorporated an exemption process into its municipal code that allows businesses to be exempted due to specialized service needs the franchise hauler is unable to provide or if the business is part of a national contract for waste management services.

5. What services are included in the franchise?

The franchise includes garbage and recycling services as well as an organic material (food scrap) collection option. All businesses receive a 4 cubic yard recycling container serviced once a week, at no charge.

6. Does the commercial franchise affect the current residential franchise?

The rates for residential garbage and recycling services are not affected by the commercial garbage and recycling franchise. The current residential rates are with Waste Management and are covered under an existing residential franchise agreement.

7. What does the Village receive for the franchise?

The Village receives no fees or revenue from the commercial franchise. Lakeshore has agreed to recycling education with measurable goals throughout the contract. Lakeshore will distribute educational brochures to the community and plans to dedicate time to providing community outreach that will educate local schools on the benefits of recycling and sustainability. Additionally, Lakeshore has agreed to service downtown recycling containers and offer 1 free residential paper shredding event per year, at no charge.

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1. Is recycling included in the cost?

Yes. A 4 cubic yard recycling container picked up once a week is included in the garbage rate at no additional charge. Additional recycling containers and/or pickups are available at an additional cost similar to current opportunities.

2. Why should I recycle?

Recycling is good for the environment and a good business practice that customers appreciate, but it can also save you money! Recycling reduces the amount of material you throw in your garbage container. Less garbage may allow you to reduce your container size and/or pick up frequency. The result is lower cost. For example, if you do not recycle, 2 cycles at 2 times a week, will result in $74 per month. However, if you recycle, this will result in 1 cycle at 1 time a week, for $28 per month. This saves you $552 per year.

Additional recycling services beyond the free recycling container (4 cycles 1x/week) may further reduce your overall monthly costs. A representative from Lakeshore Recycling Systems will work with each business to determine the potential cost savings associated with recycling.

3. Who is Lakeshore Recycling Systems?

Lakeshore Recycling Systems was formed in 2012 from the merger of 2 Chicago based waste and recycling companies: Lakeshore Waste Services and Recycling Systems, Inc. Lakeshore Waste Services was started 11 years ago by a veteran of one of the largest waste companies in the country and provides a wide range of refuse, recycling and composting services to residents and businesses in the Chicagoland area. Through a grassroots effort, LWS grew from a 1 - truck 1 - route operation into a 60 - truck company.

Recycling Systems, Inc. was started in 1996 by veterans of the waste and recycling business in Forest Park, IL. In 2004, after running numerous transfer stations RSI built 2 of 25,000 - square - feet recycling and transfer buildings and established its home in Chicago.

Recycling Systems optimized the waste stream by finding outlets for recyclable materials that are sorted at their facility. They have proven success in exceeding U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED Certification points and compliant with the City of Chicago Recycling Ordinance. RSI’s 55 - fleet operation serves the Chicago land area residents, general contractors, and demolition and excavation companies. For more information Lakeshore Recycling Systems please visit its website.

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1. What is the role of the Community Development Department?

The Community Development Department is responsible for all aspects of planning, building, and zoning. The Department administers and enforces the Zoning Ordinance, Subdivision Ordinance, and Building Codes. The Department is responsible for providing staff assistance to a number of commissions.

The Department provides analysis and technical assistance of all items that come before the Plan Commission, the Board of Zoning Appeals, the Village Center Commission, the Appearance Review Commission, the Electrical Commission, the Board of Building Appeals, and various task forces, as well as coordinates the activities of these commissions. Building plan review, permit approval, inspection services, zoning compliance approvals for new businesses, and maintaining records of approved plans are also provided by the Department.

2. What is a Comprehensive Plan?

The Comprehensive Plan is Deerfield's road map for the future. It is an official public document that provides a long-range guide for land use, transportation, public facilities and natural resources. It serves as a guide for elected and appointed Village officials by providing a framework that can be used to evaluate development proposals and the document will direct the Village's growth in the context of a 20 to 25 year planning horizon.

The Comprehensive Plan allows residents and local decision-makers to identify and respond to changing community needs and desires in a proactive way rather than a reactive way. The current Comprehensive Plan was revised over an 18 month period and was approved in October 2004 by the Board of Trustees. View

the Comprehensive Plan.

3. What is a Special Use?

A Special Use is a use which is generally compatible with the other land uses permitted in a zoning district but which, because of its unique characteristics or potential impacts on the surrounding neighborhood and the Village as a whole, requires individual consideration of its location, design, configuration, and/or operation at the particular location proposed.

A Special Use can only be approved subject to the use meeting all of the standards and conditions imposed upon it by the Zoning Ordinance. Special Uses require a public hearing with the Plan Commission and must have final approval from the Board of Trustees. Article 13 in the Zoning Ordinance provides the standards for approval of a Special Use and the procedures for Special Use approval. See section 13.11 Special Uses, of Article 13 (PDF).

4. What is a Planned Unit Development (PUD)?

A Planned Unit Development (PUD) is an area of minimum size, as specified by the Zoning Ordinance, to be planned, developed, operated and maintained as a single entity under unified ownership or control, containing one or more principal buildings to accommodate one or more Permitted Uses or Special Uses as allowed by the underlying zoning district provisions.

5. What is a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District?

Tax Increment Financing (TIF) is a method for funding redevelopment activities or to renovate planning areas. The technique uses the increase in property tax revenue produced by a redevelopment project to finance the necessary public investment in that project area. The TIF allows a municipality to capture the increase in various local property taxes. It works in the following way: when a redevelopment plan is adopted, the existing total value of all taxable property in the project area is frozen at the current assessment.

Once this baseline is established, all future property tax revenues above the base generated by the redevelopment (which normally would be distributed to all taxing bodies having jurisdiction in the area) are allocated to the TIF redevelopment fund. Local taxing bodies (school districts, park district, fire protection district, etc.) continue to receive revenues generated from the current assessed valuation at the time the district is formed. Increases generated beyond this fixed amount (the increment) are paid to the TIF District. It is important to note that the tax base and not the tax revenue is frozen during the tax increment period.

As redevelopment proceeds in the TIF District, property owners pay more in taxes in correlation to the rise in their property values each year. But instead of distributing the additional property tax among the various local taxing bodies as usually done, the incremental growth in property taxes is reserved for improvements and expenses in the TIF District only. Deerfield's Village Center TIF has been a very useful tool to help revitalize the Village Center but it has now expired. The Lake Cook Road TIF expired in 2005.

6. What is the role of the Plan Commission?

The Plan Commission holds public hearings for Special Uses, Planned Unit Developments, Text Amendments, Subdivisions, Amendments to the Comprehensive Plan, and other land use issues. The Plan Commission is a seven member Commission which meets on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of each month at 7:30 p.m. at the Village Hall. The Plan Commission is a recommending body to the Board of Trustees.

When considering a request, the Plan Commission considers its standards, the Comprehensive Plan, the petitioner’s proposal, public input, and makes a recommendation to the Board of Trustees. The Board considers the Plan Commission’s recommendation and makes a final decision. The staff liaisons to the Plan Commission are Jeff Ryckaert, Principal Planner, who can be reached at 847-719-7482; and Dan Nakahara, Planner, who can be reached at 847-719-7480.

7. What is the role of the Appearance Review Commission?

The Appearance Review Commission (ARC) has jurisdiction within the Village Center boundaries and in the C-2 Outlying Commercial District. The ARC is a seven member Commission which meets the 4th Monday of each month at 7:30 p.m. at the Village Hall. Any exterior changes which would require a building permit or a deviation from an approved PUD need a certificate of approval issued by the ARC, including changes to building façades, sites, landscaping, and signs. The staff liaison to the ARC is Liz Delevitt, Planning and Design Specialist, who can be reached at 847-719-7483.

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1. What do I do if I want to seek a Special Use at a specific location in the Village?

The specifics of a proposed Special Use need to be discussed with Village staff. If you want to seek a Special Use please contact Jeff Ryckaert Principal Planner at 847-719-7482, or Kathy LeVeque Associate Planner at 847-719-7480 to discuss the proposed Special Use process. Find more information about the procedures for approval of a Special Use in this Special Use document (PDF).

2. How do I verify if my proposed use is a Permitted Use or a Special Use in the C-1 and C-2 commercial zoning districts?

A list of Permitted and Special Uses in the C-1 and C-2 commercial zoning districts is available. Once you have reviewed the list, please contact Planning Division staff at 847-719-7484 to proceed with approval of your use. See Article 5, Commercial Districts, of the Zoning Ord

3. What are the rules and zoning regulations for a home based business?

Home occupations are businesses or occupations which are compatible with the character of the residential districts of the Village. The rules and regulations for running a home based business can be found in Section 2.04-A, of Article 2 of the Deerfield Zoni

4. How do I register a business?

To register a business in Deerfield you will need to fill out a form. There is no cost to register a business. The completed business registration form must be submitted to the Police Department as they keep the database. Note: Before filling out a business registration form, please check with the Community Development Department to see if the zoning is appropriate for the proposed business location. Print the Business Registration Form (PDF).

5. What are the guidelines for the community banner poles?

You will need to contact Kylie Cerk, Communications Specialist, at (847) 719-7404, to have a banner placed on the community banner pole. The Village has 2 community banner poles, 1 located at the northwest corner of Deerfield Road and Robert York Avenue, and 1 at the northeast corner of Deerfield Road and Waukegan Road. Read the

banner pole guidelines (PDF).

6. How do I determine the required setbacks from the property line for a property?

You must determine the zoning district for your property. To find out the zoning district in which your property is located, go to the Village's Zoning Map and locate your property on the color coded map. You should call the Community Development Department at 847-719-7484 and ask a staff member for the setbacks on a property as setbacks and building lines vary by zoning district. View the map (PDF).

7. What are the current public hearing fees?

The public hearing fee is $175 plus the cost of publishing the legal notice in the newspaper and any county recording fees for ordinances and other documents.

8. How do I find out if my property is in a flood plain or flood zone?

To find out if your property is located in a flood plain or flood zone go to http://www.fema.gov/hazard/map/flood.shtm, click “find a flood map online.” Go to “product search by address,” select “public flood map,” type in your address, and click “product search.” Click “view” to view the flood map of your area. You can also contact the Village’s Engineering Department with flood plain questions.

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1. What is the Village of Deerfield’s electricity aggregation program?

Since 2009, Illinois state law allows municipalities to arrange for the provision of electricity to residential and small commercial retail customers by alternative electric suppliers (i.e. suppliers other than ComEd). This process is known as electricity load aggregation. Electricity is still delivered by ComEd, which remains responsible for customer service, such as billing and outage response. 

Deerfield approved an electricity aggregation program by referendum in March 2012. The  Village joined with other municipalities in the North Shore Electricity Aggregation Consortium to operate the program from 2012 through 2017 and provide lower electricity rates to residents. In 2017, the Village paused its aggregation program when it could no longer guarantee residents would save money compared to ComEd’s default rate. Aggregation did not become economical again until recently, and mc²  was selected by the Consortium in early 2021 through a competitive bidding process open to all Illinois electricity suppliers.

2. What is the price/rate for electricity through the aggregation program?

mc² guarantees that eligible customers participating in the program will pay the exact same rate as the ComEd default rate, which fluctuates monthly. More information about the ComEd default rate is available here.

3. Is there an enrollment or switching fee?

No. There are no enrollment or switching fees.

4. Is there an early termination fee?

No. There is no termination fee; you are only obligated to pay for services rendered under the contract until your service is terminated. You may cancel at any time by calling mc² at (855) 697-0286, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

5. Will someone else now bill me for my electricity usage?

No. You will continue to receive a single bill from ComEd each month. “MC Squared Energy Services” will be designated as your supplier in the “Supply” section of your ComEd bill. ComEd will continue to bill you for distribution services and taxes. Payments should still be sent to ComEd at the address provided and how you pay your bill will not change. There is no impact to ComEd services such as Budget Billing, Peak Time Savings and/or financial assistance.

6. Who should I contact regarding problems with my electric service?

ComEd will continue to be responsible for the delivery of service to you, power outages and all emergencies, regardless of your electric supplier. Residential customers should contact ComEd at (800) 334-7661 for assistance with meter readings, outages, voltage or other delivery-related concerns.

7. What happens at the end of the program term?

If the Village of Deerfield decides to end the program at the end of the contract term (in three years), all accounts served by mc² will be returned to ComEd service or the Village may select a different supplier to administer the program.

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1. I received a letter from mc2. What does it mean?

mc² is required by law to send letters to all eligible participants to notify them of the new agreement terms and to provide them with the option to “opt out” or "opt in" before Deerfield enrollments become effective in October. If you take no action, you will be enrolled in the energy supply arrangement (whether through mc² or ComEd) that is most advantageous to our electricity aggregation program.

2. What do I do if I receive a letter saying I am remaining on ComEd service?

This is normal and part of the program. If you received this letter, it is either because:

• You participate in a program such as hourly pricing, net metering (for solar panels), or community solar where your pricing or participation may change if you move to mc²; or,
• mc² does not believe it can supply energy for your account more efficiently than ComEd.

You are still supporting our electricity aggregation program even if you remain on ComEd service.

3. How do I opt in?

Unless you act to the contrary, mc² will automatically enroll you in the type of service that is most advantageous to our electricity aggregation program. No action is necessary. If you were not moved to mc² service but you wish to explicitly opt-in to have mc² serve as your electric provider, you must take action to enroll. Visit www.mc2energyservices.com/special (enter promo code Deerfield) or call (855) 697-0286, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. If you wish to enroll, you will never pay more than the ComEd rate. There are no enrollment or early termination fees.

4. How do I opt out?

Unless you act to the contrary, mc² will automatically enroll you in the type of service that is most advantageous to our electricity aggregation program. No action is necessary. If you received an opt-out letter but do not wish to have mc² serve as your electric provider, you must take action. You received a postage-prepaid reply card with your opt-out letter that you can return to mc². You may also call (855) 697-0286, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or e-mail deerfield@mc2energyservices.com. The deadline to opt out is August 31, 2021. However, if at any time you wish to return to ComEd service, there is no termination fee.

5. How do I know if this is a real letter from the aggregation program?

You can view sample copies of the opt-in and opt-out letters. There are many different reasons why you may receive an opt-in letter, and so the exact language will vary to match your situation.

6. Someone came to my door or called me asking me to switch power suppliers.

MC Squared Energy Services, LLC (mc²) is the only vendor endorsed by the Village of Deerfield. Any solicitor who comes to your door or calls asking you to switch to a new supplier is not associated with Deerfield’s Electric Aggregation Program, mc² or ComEd.

Marketers may visit your home or call you with the goal of switching you to a different electricity supplier. Some of these marketers may be aggressive and may misrepresent themselves to you, offering a “utility rebate program” that could result in your electricity supply being priced much higher than the ComEd rate after a short-term “teaser” rate. The Illinois Attorney General recently negotiated a $2.65 million settlement with a retail energy marketing company based in part on allegations of aggressive marketing claims.

Here are some simple steps that you can take to avoid becoming a victim of an energy scam:

• Do not give your ComEd bill to anyone at your door.
• Do not tell anyone your ComEd account number at the door or by phone.
• Don’t say “yes” to a marketer calling, even if they ask you if this is your name or any other similar question.
• Call the police if you think someone is trying to scam you.
• Do not be pressured. Just shut the door or hang up!

Place a “No Solicitors Invited” sign on your door. 

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1. Is the energy provided by mc2 renewable?

Both ComEd and mc² purchase all of their energy wholesale from PJM Interconnection, which is a regional power grid that serves all or part of fourteen states in the northeastern United States. Both companies report the same mix of energy sources including the use of renewable and nuclear energy. The Village of Deerfield will use all of the Civic Contribution generated by your participation to purchase renewable energy certificates (RECs) that represent increased usage of renewable resources in Deerfield’s electricity consumption.

2. What are Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs)?

The Village of Deerfield may use some or all of the Civic Contribution generated by your participation to purchase RECs on behalf of the community. A REC represents the environmental benefit of 1 megawatt hour (MWh) of renewable energy that can be paired with electricity. The RECs will be from a renewable generation location located within the Midwest, including: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota or Wisconsin.

3. Is Community Solar also part of the aggregation program?

No, Community Solar and Aggregation are two separate Village programs; however, they are both operated by mc². Deerfield also has a Community Solar program that allows participants to save 20% on their energy supply costs through net metering credits. You can learn more at www.northshorecommunitysolar.com. Community Solar participants need to stay on ComEd’s default supply to receive the best savings and will not be enrolled in the aggregation program.

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1. What is the Finance Department's phone number?

Residents may contact the Finance Department by calling 847-945-5000.

2. What is the sales tax rate in Deerfield?

Sales tax rates vary depending on the county. Determine the current sales tax rates by using the Illinois Department of Revenue’s Tax Rate Finder.

3. What rates do I pay for water and sewer?

Water and sewer customers pay the following rates for 2023:

Water: $6.21 per hundred cubic feet (1 unit)

Sewer: $4.01 per hundred cubic feet (1 unit)

4. What is 1 unit?

748 gallons.

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1. Why was my payment considered late?

We have found there are several factors that effect how quickly we receive payment. Be sure to allow 7-10 days for mailing. If you utilize auto bill pay through your bank, be mindful that the day the funds come out of the account is not the day we receive the payment, so please allow time for mailing.

2. Why is the late fee on my bill so high?

Late fees are calculated at 10% of the bill. This is set by Village Ordinance, and has not changed since 1981. Call the Finance Department at 847-945-5000 before the due date to avoid paying a penalty if you have questions about your bill.

3. What is the quickest way to deliver a payment?

Direct debit, or automated bill pay, is a great way to ensure your bill is received by the Village in a timely manner. Credit cards may be used through the Village’s online payment website, Munis Self Service, or in person at the Village Hall Finance Department front desk. Additionally, there is a drop box located at Village Hall that is available 24 hours a day. It is collected every business day at 8 a.m. It is located in the median on Jewett Park Drive between the Village Hall and the Presbyterian Church.

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1. Does the Village reimburse motorists for damage caused by potholes?

Most potholes develop during the freeze/thaw cycles during the winter and early spring months. Potholes can also be caused by a weakened road base from moisture and heavy vehicle traffic. Motorists who see a pothole should immediately to report its location to the Deerfield Public Works Department at 847-317-7245 or to the Police Department at 847-945-8636 so it can be repaired.

Please be advised that the Village of Deerfield, like many communities, does not reimburse motorists for damages that may be caused by a pothole unless the Village has been notified of the pothole and has not acted to secure or repair the site within 48 hours of being notified. Any motorist that strikes a pothole should call the Police Department to make an accident report. An accident report from the Deerfield Police Department will aid in substantiating an insurance claim, and it will serve as notice to the Public Works Department which can then send a crew to either barricade the hole or immediately patch it.

If a vehicle sustains damage, the motorist may also want to contact their insurance carrier. For insurance purposes, take photos of the damage and get multiple estimates of any needed repairs.

2. Do I need to register my vehicle with the Village?

Yes. Each vehicle garaged or registered with the Village must have a valid vehicle sticker displayed in the windshield at all times. Stickers expire July 1 of each year. The annual fee for the vehicle sticker is $30.

3. I did not receive a renewal form for my vehicle sticker. What do I do?

If you did not receive a renewal form by mail, contact the Finance Department before July 1 and make arrangements to fill out a new form. Stickers purchased, for any reason, after July 1 are subject to a 50% penalty. Renewals are sent out mid May every year.

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1. Which type of businesses must collect and pay the Food and Beverage Tax?

All premises within the Village of Deerfield where prepared food (including drinks) is sold at retail for immediate consumption on and/or off premises of the facility. Examples of prepared food facilities include but are not limited to:
Restaurants, bakeries, buffets, cafeterias, cafes, lunch counters, fast food outlets, catering services, coffee shops, diners, sandwich shops, soda fountains, taverns, bars, cocktail lounges, ice cream parlors, delicatessens, movie theaters, hotels and motels.

2. On what sales must I collect and pay the Food and Beverage Tax?

You must collect and pay the Food and Beverage Tax if you make retail sales of prepared food and non-alcoholic drinks that have been prepared for immediate consumption, whether on or off the premises. The tax will also be collected on alcoholic beverages that have been prepared for immediate consumption at restaurants but not packed liquor for consumption off premises. Examples of taxable sales include but are not limited to:
• All products served in restaurants
• All restaurant style products sold by a grocery store or other places of eating, such as prepared chicken, ice cream cones or hot soup.
• All restaurant style products at convenience stores, such as food items selected under a heat lamp.
• A can or bottle of beer, a mixed drink, or a dispensed soft drink served to a diner in a restaurant or to a patron in a bar/tavern.
• Brewed coffee, fountain drinks or other beverages prepared for immediate consumption on or off premises in a grocery store or convenience store.

3. What transactions are exempt from the Food and Beverage Tax?

Products that are prepared off-site in packages ready for retail sale and not for immediate consumption. Examples of products that are exempt from the Food and Beverage Tax include, but are not limited to:
• Pre-packed pizzas or other frozen food products sold in a grocery store or convenience store.
• A can of soda or a six-pack of beer from a cooler or convenience store.
• General grocery items such as bread, milk, and eggs that are in their original packaging and not prepared for immediate consumption.

4. What is the tax rate?

The Food and Beverage Tax rate is 1 percent (.01) of gross receipts. For example, if a prepared lunch meal was purchased for $10.00 the tax would equal 10 cents.

5. Do I have to register my business as a prepared food facility subject to the tax?

Yes. Every owner and operator of any prepared food facility must register as a retailer before opening for business. This is a one-time registration that will remain effective unless there are changes of business ownership, management or location.

6. How do I show this tax on my retail receipts?

You may either separately state this tax, or state this tax in combination with other taxes on the receipts you give your customers.

7. What form must I use to report the Food and Beverage Tax?

To pay this tax, the owner and the operator of each prepared food facility must file a sworn Food and Beverage Tax Return with the Finance Director of the Village on forms prescribed by the Village.

8. Where do I file my return?

You should mail or deliver your sworn Food and Beverage Tax Return and payment to:

Village of Deerfield
Food and Beverage Tax Returns
850 Waukegan Road
Deerfield, Illinois 60015

9. When is my monthly Food and Beverage Tax Return and tax payment due?

The returns and tax payments are due by the 20th day of each month, at the same time intervals and frequencies as the retailer occupation tax return, Form ST-1, is due to the Illinois Department Revenue for the prepared food facility. The sworn food and beverage tax returns must also be accompanied with a copy of the Form ST-1 filed with the Illinois Department of Revenue covering the same reporting period.

10. How do I file if I have more than one site?

If you make retail sales from more than one site you must file a separate Food and Beverage Tax Return for each site.

11. Must I file the Food and Beverage Tax Return even if I have no sales to report?

Yes. You must file a signed return form for each monthly reporting period regardless of whether or not there are receipts to report. You may file a “zero” return.

12. What if I do not file and pay by the due date?

If you do not file your return and pay the tax by the due date, you will be assessed for any tax due plus a late payment penalty equal to two percent (2%) of the unpaid tax.

13. Who is liable for payment?

The ultimate incidence and liability for payment of the tax is borne by the purchaser of prepared food at a prepared food facility. However, the owner and operator of each prepared food facility has the duty to collect, secure and account for the tax at the time of purchase. Any prepared food facility found to be violating or refusing to comply with the tax is subject to penalties and will not be released from the payment of the tax.

14. What other communities impose a Food and Beverage Tax?

Numerous communities throughout the State of Illinois impose a Food and Beverage Tax, typically at a rate between 1-2%. Communities proximate to the Village of Deerfield with a Food and Beverage Tax include: Arlington Heights (1.25%), Bannockburn (1%), Buffalo Grove (1%), Des Plaines (1%), Highland Park (1%), Lake Bluff (1%), Lincolnwood (1%), Morton Grove (1%), Niles (1%), Park Ridge (1%), Skokie (2%) and Wheeling (1%).

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1. When do I need inspections and who do I call?

Chances are if you have a permit you will need something inspected, the permit application has a list of when inspections should be call for and prior to certain stages of the project items need to be checked for code compliance. To schedule an inspection with a building inspector or plumbing inspector, call the Building Department at 847-719-7484. Engineering and site development inspections and inspections that take place within the right-of-way are scheduled through the Engineering Department at 847-719-2490. Fire Department inspections are scheduled through the appropriate fire protection district.

2. What hours is construction is allowed?

There are hours during which construction may occur are: Monday through Friday - 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday - 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. No construction is allowed to take place on Sundays or on the following holidays: New Year’s Day (January 1), the day on which Memorial Day is observed, the Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day (December 25). If construction is taking place outside the permitted times, call the Deerfield Police non-emergency phone number at 847-945-8636.

3. How can I obtain a copy of my plat of survey?

The Community Development Department keeps files on every address in Deerfield. We have plats of survey for some properties, but not all of them. You may call the Community Development Department at 847-719-7484 and ask a staff member to look in your home’s file. If we have a plat of survey on file, the homeowner may have a copy at no charge. We can only release copies of plats of survey to a homeowner – not to a real estate agent, potential buyer, contractor or anyone else.

4. How do I determine zoning on a property?

To find out the zoning district in which your property is located, go to the Zoning Map and locate your property on the color coded map (PDF).

5. How do I determine the required setbacks from the property line for a certain property?

You must determine the zoning district for your property. To find out the zoning district in which your property is located, go to the Zoning Map and locate your property on the color coded map. You should call the Community Development Department at 847-719-7484 and ask a staff member for the setbacks on a property as setbacks and building lines vary by zoning district. View the map (PDF).

6. How can I determine if I can build a new house or add on to my existing house?

Due to the unique nature of the many and varied zoning restrictions applicable in all the listed Zoning Districts, the question as to whether an addition or expansion of an existing home or development of any existing property is possible should be discussed with Community Development staff before entering into any contractual commitment. Find additional information in the Bulk Regulations for Single Family Homes (PDF).

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1. How are massage establishments regulated by the Village?

On May 7, 2018, the Village Board passed an ordinance allowing the regulation and licensing of massage establishments in the Village of Deerfield.

2. What is the purpose of the ordinance?

The purpose of the ordinance is to regulate and license for the protection of the public health, morals and welfare of the residents of the Village of Deerfield including, but not limited to, the prevention of such establishments from being used for the purposes of prostitution and the spread of disease through unsanitary practices and facilities.

3. Who does the ordinance affect?

The ordinance affects any business in the Village of Deerfield with a licensed massage therapist offering massage services.

4. When does the ordinance take effect?

August 1, 2018

5. What is considered a massage establishment?

A massage establishment is the premises where any person, business, firm, partnership, association, corporation or limited liability company engages in or carries on or permits to be engaged in or carried on any massage services.

6. How do I get a massage establishment business license?

You can fill out a massage establishment license form at www.deerfield.il.us or in person at Village Hall (850 Waukegan Road). You may return the form and the $100 non-refundable application fee (cash or check) to Andrew Lichterman, Assistant Village Manager, in person at Village Hall or by mail.

7. What additional materials do I need to include with my application?

In addition to the completed application, you must submit the $100 non-refundable application fee; the $35 annual business license fee; a complete set of fingerprints (contact the Deerfield Police Department at 847.945.8636); and a copy of your lease for leased premises only.

8. How much does a massage establishment business license cost?

There is a $100 non-refundable fee for the application and a $35 annual fee for the license. Your license must be renewed each year by December 31. The fee may be paid by cash or check. There is also an additional fee associated with supplying a complete set of fingerprints – please contact the Deerfield Police Department at 847.945.8636 to arrange.

9. What should I do with my massage establishment business license?

The business license must be displayed in an open and conspicuous space on the premises.

10. How is the ordinance enforced?

The Chief of Police, any duly authorized police officer or a building and code enforcement officer of the Village shall have the right to enter the premises for the purpose of inspecting the premises. Books and records shall be available at all times for inspection by the Chief of Police or his authorized representative.

11. What is the penalty for violating the ordinance?

Any person found guilty of violating the ordinance will face a daily fine of $250-$1,000. Licensed massage therapists may also have their license revoked.

12. Who can I contact if I have questions?

Please contact the Andrew Lichterman, Assistant Village Manager, with questions at 847.719.7403. or by email at alichterman@deerfield.il.us. You may also stop by in person at Village Hall.

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1. How do I obtain plans for my house?

The Community Development Department keeps files on every address in Deerfield. We may have plans for some houses, but not all of them. You may call the Community Development Department at 847-719-7484 and ask a staff member to look in your home’s file. If we have paper house plans on file, the homeowner may request a copy at their expense. The Village does not have a large format copier and the plans will have to be sent out for copying at the homeowner’s expense. A note on floor plans: for security reasons we can only release copies of floor plans to a homeowner – not to a real estate agent, potential buyer, contractor or anyone else.

Sometimes we have house plans on microfiche. At this time, we are not able to make copies of plans on microfiche. Most companies no longer make copies from microfiche because the technology is outdated, and for the companies that still make these copies they are often expensive and the quality is very poor.

2. What if there is construction happening in my neighborhood and I have questions and concerns?

Construction can bring about many questions and concerns. Read about some common concerns in this Neighborhood Construction document (PDF).

3. What if my neighbor is doing construction, and I don’t think they have a permit?

When a building permit is issued, the contractor and the homeowner are informed they need to display the building permit in the home’s front window, on the construction fencing, or someplace visible from the street. The building permit is a yellow card that states “Building Permit” and contains the address, permit number and date of issue. The permit is good for one year from the date of issue. If you believe someone is working without a permit, you can call the Building Department at 847-719-7484 to report it and an inspector look into the situation. Please keep in mind that no permit is needed for cosmetic work.

4. What if I need a dumpster?

Dumpsters do not require a special permit. Dumpsters must be placed on private property, preferably in the driveway. Dumpsters may not be placed in the street or in the right-of-way.

5. What is the right-of-way?

The right-of-way is Village owned area that is also known as the parkway. Right-of-way extends 15 feet from the curb line on either side of the street. In order to dig in the right-of-way a deposit must be paid to the Village. The deposit ensures that the right-of-way will be restored.

6. Where can residential open house and for sale signs be placed and when are they allowed?

Open house signs and Real Estate signs are permitted, however the open house signs are only allowed on Wednesdays between the hours of 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Sundays between the hours of noon to 6 p.m.

7. Where can political signs be placed and when are they allowed?

Political signs are only allowed to be placed on private property. Time limits for political signs are requested to be no more than 30 days prior to an election and removed 7 days following an election.

8. Can I install a free little library on my property?

Yes, but please follow the below guidelines.

Placement

1. Structures must be on private property and not in the public right-of-way
2. Sight lines and movement of vehicles, bicyclists and pedestrians must not be obstructed 

Size and Condition

1. Structures must be no larger than four feet tall and three feet wide (when mounted)
2. Structures must be kept in good repair

Limit

1. Properties are limited to one library structure only

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1. Where do I get a permit to park at the Deerfield Train Station?

To obtain a parking permit for the train station please call Village Hall at 847-945-5000. You must have a permit to park in the permit only areas of the train station, and you must pay $2 to park at the station if you are parking in a daily fee spot. A map showing all the available parking at the train station is also available at Village Hall.

2. Can I park on the streets overnight in Deerfield?

No cars are allowed to park on the street between the hours of 2 a.m. to 6 a.m. If you are having work done to your driveway or are having guests with more cars then your driveway can accommodate please call our non-emergency number 847-945-8636. We will need to know what day the car will be parked and license plates of the cars that will be parked on the street overnight.

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1. What time is curfew?

Curfew applies to those that are 17 years old and under. Sunday - Thursday curfew is 11 p.m.; Friday and Saturday it's midnight. For new drivers, under 18, curfew is reduced by an hour; so it is 10 p.m. and 11 p.m. respectively.

2. When do I stop for a school bus loading or unloading children?

When a school bus is traveling on a 2-lane roadway and is stopped to pick up or drop off pupils, the vehicles in all lanes of traffic must stop. Vehicles should stop at least 20 feet before reaching the school bus to allow pupils to cross the roadway safely.
When a school bus is traveling on a 4-lane roadway with at least two lanes of traffic traveling in the opposite direction, only those lanes of traffic traveling in the same direction as the school bus must stop. Pupils shall not be required to cross four or more lanes of traffic to reach their residence.
Learn more from the School Bus Safety Guide (PDF).

3. Where can I park to use the Deerfield Train Station?

Certain lots are designated only for residents or those with a paid parking permit. A map showing all the available parking at the train station is available at Village Hall and online with the Deerfield Station Commuter Parking legend (PDF).

4. How can I access a parking permit for the Deerfield Train Station?

To obtain a parking permit for the Deerfield Station, please call the Village Hall at 847-945-5000. If parking in a daily fee spot, you must pay $2 to park in cash or via the Passport Parking mobile app.

5. Can I get a temporary handicapped permit?

Yes, we do give out temporary handicapped permits to people who will be having surgery or for situations where a medical professional recommends handicapped parking for a period of time. Our handicapped permits are only for temporary circumstances and therefore are only good for three months. If you will require a permit to last more than 3 months then that permit must be obtained through the Secretary of State. To receive a handicapped permit your medical professional must sign our Persons with Disabilities Certification for Parking Placard/License Plates form.

6. Are vehicle stickers required in Deerfield?

Yes. Each vehicle garaged or registered within the Village must have a valid vehicle sticker displayed in the windshield at all times. Stickers expire July 1 of each year. The annual fee for the vehicle sticker is $30. To receive a village sticker stop by Village Hall before July 1. Stickers purchased, for any reason, after July 1 are subject to a 50% penalty.
If you should purchase a new car after already putting a sticker on your old car a replacement sticker will be issued for $1. Any vehicle found without a current village sticker will be subject to a $40 fine each day until the car has a sticker properly affixed.

7. What are the hours for construction noise?

Contractors working on homes can begin at 7:30 a.m. and work until 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and on Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. No construction noise can occur on Sundays. If a contractor is beginning work before these hours or continuing after these hours, please call our non-emergency number 847-945-8636. This does not include a homeowner working on their own home.

8. When do the parks in Deerfield close?

All parks close at 10 p.m. each night.

9. When can I sprinkle my lawn?

Restricted sprinkling begins on May 15 and goes until September 15 each year. During the restricted sprinkling even numbered addresses can water on even numbered days and odd numbered address can water on odd numbered days. On the designated sprinkling day you can sprinkle from midnight to noon, and then from 6 p.m. to midnight. There is no sprinkling allowed from noon to 6 p.m. Any violation of sprinkling will result in a $25 fine for residential addresses, and a $100 fine for businesses.

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1. Can I use my electronic or cellular device while driving in Deerfield?

A statewide law that went into effect on January 1, 2014 makes it illegal to use an electronic communication device while driving. An “electronic communication device” means an electronic device; including but not limited to a wireless telephone, personal digital assistant, portable or mobile computer – but does not include a global positioning system or navigation system. Cell phones and electronic devices are permitted only if using a hands-free device or Bluetooth technology.

The law is in addition to the existing statewide ban on electronic messaging. An “electronic message” is defined as a self-contained piece of digital communication transmitted between physical devices. This includes but is not limited to electronic mail, a text message, an instant message, a photograph, a video, or a command or request to access an Internet site. To learn more, view a press release from the Deerfield Police Department (PDF).

2. Where can I get information on Graduated Driver License laws?

Learn more about the Graduated Driver License Program in Illinois and view teen driver safety links via the CyberDriveIllinois.com website.

3. Can I park on the streets overnight in Deerfield?

No cars are allowed to park on the street between the hours of 2 a.m. and 6 a.m. If you are having work done to your driveway or are having guests with more cars than your driveway can accommodate, please call our non-emergency number 847-945-8636. We will need to know what day the car will be parked and license plates of the cars that will be parked on the street overnight.

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1. When should I call 9-1-1?

Call 9-1-1 for all medical emergencies, fires, or emergencies. Call 9-1-1 to report a crime in progress that you are aware, if you observe a crime happening, a crime is committed against you, or you just witnessed a crime.

2. What should I do if I hear the tornado siren?

Unless you have an emergency that requires assistance, please do not call 9-1-1 or the non-emergency number to inquire about the sirens. If you hear the sirens, then seek proper shelter and listen to your television or radio for updates. If you have any weather related questions call the National Weather Service from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at 815-834-1435 or visit the National Weather Service

3. What should I do if the Lightning Prediction System sounds?

Unless you have an emergency that requires assistance, please do not call 9-1-1 or the non-emergency number to inquire why the siren has been activated. If you should hear the siren, take shelter in a building or vehicle. When you hear 3 short horn blasts, it is safe to return to the outdoors.

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1. How can I pay my parking ticket?

Payments for parking tickets are accepted online by MasterCard, American Express, Discover Card, and eCheck. Payments are also accepted at 850 Waukegan Road, Deerfield, Illinois 60015 by mail or in person 24 hours a day. Please note that if paying by mail or in person we accept cash or check only. If paying by cash, we will not always be able to make change so be prepared to pay in exact dollars. Please visit E-Pay Illinois.

2. What if I want to dispute my parking ticket?

If you have questions concerning a parking ticket, then stop by the Police Department in person and speak with the Watch Commander on duty (available 24 hours a day). If you wish to dispute a parking ticket, you must arrange for a court date. To do so, stop by the Police Department. You will be issued a traffic ticket and will sign the ticket as bond. You then must appear at Park City Branch Court in Park City, Illinois, on the assigned court date to contest the charge before a judge.

3. Who should I call to answer questions about my traffic ticket?

If you have questions about a traffic ticket that the Deerfield Police Department issued, please call the Park City Branch Court at 847-377-3500.

4. Who should I call if I have questions about a court date?

If you have questions about your court date please call the Park City Branch Court at 847-377-3500.

5. What can I use as bond for my traffic ticket?

As of January 1, 2015 Illinois is a sign and drive state. This means that for most traffic tickets you will be able to sign the ticket instead of posting bond. In the event that another form of bond is required you may post a bond card or cash. If you will be posting cash it needs to be the exact amount that is due. Officers do not carry change in the squad cars, and change cannot be made at the Police Department. Do not mail checks to the Deerfield Police Department. Once you are issued a traffic ticket, then any correspondence you have should be directed to the Lake County Court. If you are mailing payment to the Lake County Courthouse by money order or certified check, make it payable to Clerk of the Circuit Court and mail to 301 Greenleaf Street, Park City, Illinois 60085.

6. Where is the court located?

The address for the Park City Branch Court is 301 Greenleaf Street, Park City, IL 60085. This is the address that traffic tickets should be mailed to, or to go to if you have a traffic court date.

7. What do I get when I receive a traffic ticket?

If you receive a ticket then two copies will be issued to you. The violator’s copy is red and it serves as your receipt and explains the violation. The blue copy is called the Court Communication Copy and the back of this ticket must be filled out with either your guilty or not guilty plea and then mailed back to the court at Park City Branch Court 301 Greenleaf Street, Park City, IL 60085. If you have any questions please call the Court at 847-377-3500.

8. What are my options when I receive a traffic ticket?

There are 3 options should you receive a ticket:

- Plead Guilty - Send in the blue copy of your ticket marked guilty along with your payment (if you did not post cash with your ticket) and the ticket will be on your record.
- Plead Not Guilty - Send in the blue copy of your ticket requesting a court date.
- Traffic School/Court Supervision - This option is only open if you have not had a traffic ticket within the past year. Fill out the driver’s safety school application and mail it along with a cashier's check or money order ($220 for the internet course for most violations, $240 for the internet course if the violation is speeding over 21 miles per hour over the limit) to the Clerk of the Circuit Court. The court will supply you with the information for the class and once the class is completed the ticket will not show on your record.

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1. How can I pay my false alarm invoice?

Payments for false alarm invoices are accepted online by MasterCard, American Express, Discover Card, and eCheck. Payments are also accepted at 850 Waukegan Road, Deerfield, Illinois 60015 by mail or in person 24 hours a day. Please note that if paying by mail or in person we accept cash or check only. If paying by cash, we will not always be able to make change so be prepared to pay in exact dollars.
Please visit E-Pay Illinois.

2. What should I do if I want to install an alarm in my home?

Per Village ordinance every alarm in Deerfield must have a permit. If you have just moved to Deerfield, or are putting in a home alarm system please stop by the Police Department and fill out an Alarm Permit Application. Alarm Permit Applications cannot be submitted by fax or over the internet. There is a one time $25 fee to register your alarm which is due at the same time as your Alarm Permit Application. Failure to obtain an Alarm Permit can result in a fine up to $500 (each day of violation shall constitute a separate offense).

3. Can my false alarm fee be waived?

By ordinance, only false alarms caused by hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes or other catastrophic events, are subject to appeal. Alarms activated by electrical storms, thunder, hail, or sudden changes in temperature do not meet the standards for waiver of false alarm fees. Alarms activated by accidental but legal entry to the property (children returning home, guests, neighbors looking after your home while you are on vacation) do not meet the standard for waiver.
Loss of electrical power supplied by the utility company is also not a viable reason for waiver. You must provide an alternate source of power in order to prevent false alarm due to loss of electrical power, we suggest battery power as an alternate.

4. Can I test my alarm without receiving a false alarm fee?

Yes, you can test your alarm. If you would like to do so please call our non-emergency number at 847-945-8636 and let us know that you will be testing your alarm. An officer will still respond to your home to verify that it is in fact a test, and there will be no fine for this type of police response.

5. What happens if I forget to pay my false alarm fee?

The first month that there is a false alarm you will receive an invoice from the Deerfield Police Department informing you of the fee. This fee is to be paid immediately. Per Village ordinance, if the invoice is unpaid more than 2 months later, you will receive a reminder invoice. If the invoice remains unpaid for 3 months then a warning will be sent. After 4 months of unpaid status, the alarm is revoked and the invoice is turned over to our collections agency.
Revoked alarms are subject to being fined up to $500 (each day in revoked status counting as a separate offense). Avoid trouble by paying invoices upon receiving them.

6. What do I do if my alarm is revoked?

If you receive a letter from the Deerfield Police Department stating that your alarm has been revoked then payment needs to be made to our collections agency for your false alarm fee. You must then re-apply for your alarm permit with the Deerfield Police Department and pay a $25 alarm permit fee to be reinstated.

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1. What hours can someone solicit door-to-door?

Solicitation can take place from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. If you would like a no soliciting sign to place on your front door, please stop by the Police Department or Village Hall between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and we will be happy to provide you with one.

2. Can I solicit door-to-door?

Anyone interested in door-to-door solicitation must first fill out an application at Village Hall and receive approval to solicit. Anyone soliciting door-to-door without a Solicitors Permit will be ticketed and fined. Depending on the type of solicitation there may be a charge for a Solicitors Permit. If you have any questions please call Village Hall at 847-945-5000.

3. Who should I call if my electricity goes out?

Unless you have an emergency that requires assistance, please do not call 9-1-1 if your electricity goes out and do not call the non-emergency number to report or inquire about the power outage - the Police Department cannot answer questions about the duration of the power outage. If you have questions during a power outage call ComEd at 800-334-7661.

4. Who should I call if there is water in my basement?

Unless you have an emergency that requires assistance, please do not call 9-1-1 or the non-emergency number. Call a plumber or, if you believe the flooding is due to a water main call the Deerfield Public Works Department at 847-317-7245.

5. What if I have other questions for the Police Department?

Please call our non-emergency number 847-945-8636 for any other questions.

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1. What can I do to minimize cost for this utility (sewage)?

Do not place home footing drains/sump pumps and roof drains to the sanitary sewers. When rain events occur in Deerfield, dramatic increases in flow occur at the treatment plant. This water which did not need to be treated is pumped, aerated and disinfected at significant expense to the Village for electricity and chemicals.

2. Who should I contact if I have questions about my water bill?

Any questions about your water bill should be directed to the Finance Department at 847-945-5000.

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1. Why do I have sprinkling restrictions and when are they?

The Illinois Division of Water Resources requires that municipalities using Lake Michigan water restrict lawn sprinkling between May 15th and September 15th. Accordingly Deerfield's restrictions during this period are as follows: Even numbered addresses may sprinkle on even numbered days from midnight to noon and from 6 p.m. to midnight. Odd numbered addresses may sprinkle on odd numbered days from midnight to noon and from 6 p.m. to midnight.

Sprinkling is not allowed for anyone between the hours of noon to 6 p.m. Fines for violators are $25 per occurrence for residential properties, and $100 for non-residential properties. These restrictions apply only to lawn sprinkling. Newly sodded areas of lawns may be watered at any time on any day for the 2 week period following the installation of such sod.

2. Does the Village reimburse motorists for damage caused by potholes?

Most potholes develop during the freeze/thaw cycles during the winter and early spring months. Potholes can also be caused by a weakened road base from moisture and heavy vehicle traffic. Motorists who see a pothole should immediately to report its location to the Deerfield Public Works Department at 847-317-7245 or to the Police Department at 847-945-8636 so it can be repaired.

Please be advised that the Village of Deerfield, like many communities, does not reimburse motorists for damages that may be caused by a pothole unless the Village has been notified of the pothole and has not acted to secure or repair the site within 48 hours of being notified. Any motorist that strikes a pothole should call the Police Department to make an accident report. An accident report from the Deerfield Police Department will aid in substantiating an insurance claim, and it will serve as notice to the Public Works Department which can then send a crew to either barricade the hole or immediately patch it.

If a vehicle sustains damage, the motorist may also want to contact their insurance carrier. For insurance purposes, take photos of the damage and get multiple estimates of any needed repairs.

3. What causes potholes?

Most potholes develop during the freeze/thaw cycles during the winter and early spring months. Potholes can also be caused by a weakened road base from moisture and heavy vehicle traffic.

4. What material does Public Works use to repair potholes?

Public Works uses high performance asphalt which can be used at any time of year to repair potholes. Street openings, such as sewer repairs or water main repairs, are repaired using hot mix asphalt which is not available during the colder weather.

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1. What type of sewers does the Village have?

The Village has storm sewers and sanitary sewer systems.

2. What function do storm sewers provide?

Storm sewers are designed to collect and direct storm water to storage areas or to creeks. Storm water is not treated. You should never pour unwanted chemicals or other foreign substances in the storm sewer.

3. What function do sanitary sewers provide?

Sanitary Sewers provide direct waste pumping stations that pump to the treatment plant for treatment and discharge to the West Fork of the North Branch of the Chicago River.

4. Who is responsible for the sanitary services?

Section 16-7 of the Municipal Code states that all repairs and maintenance of the services lines from the public sewer, including the connection to the public sewer, to the premises served and in the sanitary sewer system of the building served shall be made by and at the expense of the owners of the premises served.

5. Who do I contact if there is a sewer back up in my home?

Always contact the Public Works Department first at 847-317-7245 (Monday - Friday, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.). After 3:30, call the non-emergency number for the Deerfield Police Department at 847-945-8636 and they will direct your call to the Sewer Department.

6. Why is there an odor coming from my floor drain?

Usually this occurs in the winter time as the trap in the floor drain dries out, allowing the sewer odor to enter the house. To fix the problem, add water to the floor drain and the smell should go away. If this method doesn't work, contact the Public Works Sewer Department at 847-317-7245 for further assistance.

7. What happens to sewage after we flush?

Sewage is pumped to the Deerfield Wastewater Reclamation facility. The sewage is treated and disinfected and discharged into the West Fork North Branch of the Chicago River. In many cases, the discharged water is cleaner than the water in the river.

8. What should not be flushed?

The following should not be flushed:
- Oil
- Hazardous Material
- Medications
- Plastics
- Elastic Material
- Towels/Clothing
- Large Amounts of Grease

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1. Where should I place my mailbox?

The face of your mailbox should be at least 1 foot behind the curb.

2. How often does the Village sweep the streets?

Public works has 1 street sweeper to sweep approximately 180 miles of streets. It takes approximately 9 to 14 days to sweep all the streets in the Village. During the sweeping season, which is generally March through November, every attempt is made to sweep every residential street at least once.

3. Who do I contact if my street sign needs to be replaced?

If you are aware of a sign that needs to be replaced, please contact Public Works at 847-317-7245.

4. Who should I contact if I notice a burned out or damaged light pole?

Streetlights on wooden poles are owned by ComEd and should be reported to ComEd at 800-344-7661 or 800-EDISON 1. Public Works will report the request if you call 847-317-7245. Lights on concrete poles are generally the responsibility of Public Works and should be reported to Public Works at 847-317-7245.

When a street light outage is not a burned out bulb, it might be an underground fault. Public Works may have to dig, which may lengthen the amount of time to make proper repairs.

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1. What facilities are at the Treatment Plant?

The Deerfield Wastewater Treatment Plant consists of grit handling, primary settling, trickling filters, activated sludge, secondary clarifiers and disinfection facilities. In addition, for sludge handling, we have anaerobic digesters, aerobic digesters and sludge drying beds. We also have excess flow facilities, which include settling basins, disinfection and a storage lagoon. This facility is located on a ten acre site.

2. What does the Village do with treated sludge?

After sludge digestion and drying on our sludge drying beds, sludge is stockpiled on site. Once a year, the Village contracts with a licensed sludge hauler, who finds farm fields for land application of the sewage sludge. This is why it is important to flush only human waste to the treatment plant.

3. Is the treatment plant regulated?

Yes. The Village has permits to treat and discharge to the waters of the State of Illinois. This federal program is called the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System and is administered by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA). Our treatment plant and 3 bypass storm treatment facilities have separate permits. The IEPA has the right to inspect our facilities and sample at any time.

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1. Is it alright to prune my parkway tree?

Homeowners should not attempt to prune parkway trees. As parkway trees are in the Village right-of-way, they are the responsibility of Public Works. These trees are trimmed to specific specifications. The Village has contractors who trim trees as well as our in-house staff. If a homeowner would like his/her professional to trim their parkway tree at their expense they must contact Public Works at 847-317-7245 for permission.

2. Who should I contact if my parkway tree looks sick or dead?

Contact Public Works at 847-317-7245 to have the Village to check out any problems with parkway trees and perform any remedy required.

3. Can I put too much mulch around my tree?

Yes, any more than 2 to 3 inches prevents water from getting to the roots of the tree. Also, do not mound the mulch or dirt around the trunk of the tree. This can make the tree vulnerable to diseases and insects. An alternative is to saucer the mulch or dirt around the tree to help capture water.

4. When is leaf removal?

Leaf removal is performed during the 4 weeks prior to the week of Thanksgiving. The dates are available on the Village's website and in the September/October edition of the Village newsletter, D-Tales.

5. How do I dispose of my leaves?

Leaves can be disposed of in a number of ways. Rake the leaves to the curb in a long neat pile, approximately 4 feet wide, for Public Works vacuum machines to collect. Please do not place the leaves in the street or on carriage walks or sidewalks. Do not rake grass clippings, sticks, rocks, branches or mud to the curb with your leaves.

These materials clog and damage the equipment used for collecting leaves. If these items are found, the leaves will not be removed. You can also place the leaves in paper yard waste bags for Waste Management to collect with the weekly yard waste pickup. A landscape waste sticker must be affixed or else the bags will not be collected. You may also have your landscaper take the leaves away to a waste site.

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1. When should I water?

Generally speaking, trees require one inch of water per week when in leaf, either from rain or homeowner. Set a hose to trickle over the area within the drip line and move the hose periodically to cover as much of the root zone as possible. Care must be taken not to over water trees, as too much water can kill the tree as well.

2. Where does my drinking water come from?

The Village of Deerfield purchases its water from the City of Highland Park, whose water treatment facility collects and processes from Lake Michigan. Processed water is then pumped to 1 of 4 places; 1 of 3 reservoirs or 1 elevated tank. From there, it is pumped into the water distribution system.

3. How safe is my drinking water?

The water supplied to the Village of Deerfield is very safe as it must meet the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's standards for safe drinking water.

4. Should I buy bottled water?

You don't need to buy bottled water for health reasons; Deerfield's drinking water meets all of the Federal and State drinking water standards. Bottled water may have a slightly different taste than tap water, but it costs up to 1,000 times more than municipal drinking water. In emergencies, bottled water can be a vital source of drinking water if water service is lost. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires bottled water quality standards to be equal to those of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for tap water, but the quality of the finished product is not government-monitored.

5. Can I test my own water at home?

You can, but not in a meaningful way. Simple kits are available to test for hardness and some chemicals like chlorine and lead, but a thorough analysis is not possible. The Water Department provides information on water quality, published in our annual drinking water quality report. (May/June issue of the Village's newsletter) Any questions about water quality should be directed to the Water Department at 847-317-7245.

6. What is the hardness of the water?

On average the water hardness is approximately 7 to 8 grains or 134 parts per million.

7. Periodically, my water tastes and smells funny. Why does this occur?

The most common reasons for taste and odor problems with drinking water include chlorine that is added to the water to kill bacteria; Non-toxic algae, bacteria, and tiny fungi grow in surface water sources and give off non toxic, smelly chemicals that cause unpleasant tastes in drinking water. Different algae cause different tastes and odors, for example a grassy, swampy taste. The tiny fungi can cause an earthy musty taste; and Metallic tastes can come from iron rust in iron pipes. Odor poses no health impact and is strictly aesthetic.

8. What can I do about these water taste and odor problems?

In-home water filtration systems that employ activated carbon can help reduce or eliminate these tastes and odors. If you purchase such a unit, please remember that it is very important to follow the manufacturer's instructions with respect to maintenance. In addition, cooling water in your refrigerator can help.

9. Who should I contact if I have questions about my water?

Any questions about water or water quality should be directed to the Water Department at 847-317-7245.

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1. What is the Village's first step in snow removal?

Public works utilizes over 20 pieces of equipment during the winter for snow removal. When the snow starts to fall our salt trucks are the first to respond.

2. When does Public Works use salt trucks?

If less than 2 or 3 inches fall the salt trucks alone are used for snow removal and control. We use 3000 to 4000 tons of salt every year to help keep the streets safe.

3. Where does Public Works distribute salt?

Public Works distributes salt on all major streets and feeder streets. The rest of the streets receive salt at intersections, stop signs, curves and hills.

4. How does Public Works determine where snow removal equipment will be utilized?

When approximately 2-3 inches of snow has fallen the remainder of the snow equipment is called out and put into service. The Village does not have enough equipment to make sure every street is kept clear of snow during the duration of the storm though through careful planning and with dedicated staff, snow operations will continue until every street has been cleared. We have 1 sidewalk plow which is used to clear sidewalks around schools and along Deerfield and Waukegan Roads.

5. What is the best way to clear snow from my driveway?

Shovel as much of the snow from your driveway as possible to the right side as you look out to the street. Snow on the left side could be pushed back into the driveway by Public Works snow plows. Be a good neighbor, if you have a plow service make sure they know where to push the snow so it won't end up in your neighbor's yard or driveway.

6. During Winter when may I park my vehicle on the street?

By Village ordinance you cannot park your vehicle on the street for 24 hours after 2 inches of snow has fallen or deposit snow from your property on the street or sidewalk.

7. How and when does Public Works repair snow plow damage?

Public works repairs snow plow damage with black dirt and seed. This is generally performed in early spring when the threat of snow is less likely. Contact Public Works if damage was caused by Village plows. After dirt and seed is put down, homeowner is responsible for maintenance.

8. How can I keep my mailbox from being damaged as a result of the winter weather?

Mailboxes are the responsibility of homeowners to maintain in good condition and in the right location. A mailbox knocked down in a snow storm it is almost always from the weight of the snow and not from the plow making contact with it. Make sure your support posts are not rotting or rusting away and that they are securely fastened.

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1. What is the benefit to my city for performing a Smoke Test?

The Sewer Division has performed hundreds of sewer system evaluations. Smoke Testing is one technique utilized to identify sections of sewers which may exhibit inflow during heavy rainfall.
Smoke Testing is best used to detect inflow sources such as:
- Roof Leaders
- Cellar
- Yard and Area Drains
- Foundation Drains
- Abandoned Building Sewers
- Faulty Connections
- Illegal Connections
- Storm Water Drainage System Cross Connections

It can also detect structural damages and leaking joints in sewer pipes and overflow points in sewer systems.

2. What exactly is a Smoke Test?

A 2-man or 3-man crew from the Sewer Division will use a high capacity blower smoke technique to test each sewer line. Smoke blowers are placed on manholes and smoke is blown through the sewer system. Anywhere the smoke exits, there is potential for stormwater to enter the sewer system.

3. How will my residents know when Smoke Testing will be performed in their neighborhoods?

Prior to beginning the smoke testing, the Sewer Division will place door hangers on the front door of every building on the streets to be smoke tested at least 24 to 48 hours in advance. Notices will be distributed by 2 people from the smoke testing field crew. If requested by the city, the Sewer Division will post the smoke testing schedule on the Village of Deerfield website.

4. How are Sewer Division crews recognizable in the field?

The Sewer Division’s personnel are uniformed and carry identification badges. Crew members operate from vehicles with Village of Deerfield signage.

5. Is the smoke that you use hazardous?

No. The smoke that comes out of the vent stacks on houses or holes in the ground is non-toxic, harmless, and has no odor. It does not create a fire hazard.

6. Do my city's residents have to do anything to prepare their homes for Smoke Testing?

Drain traps should always be filled with water to prevent sewer gases from entering the building. About 3 cups of water should be poured in floor and sink drains, filling the traps to prevent smoke from entering the home. If smoke does enter, the resident should consult a licensed plumber. If harmless smoke can enter through faulty plumbing, the potential exists for dangerous sewer gases to also enter the home. Should smoke enter your building or structure, contact a member of the smoke testing crew working in the area.

7. What if smoke comes out of a resident's yard or driveway?

This could mean that there a drain on the property which is connected to the house lateral instead of the storm system. It could also mean that there is not direct connection, but that the lateral has breaks or cracks in the pipe that drain runoff after it has percolated into the soil.

8. If there is smoke in the resident's yard, does that mean the cause of the leak needs to be dug up?

In a worst-case scenario, yes, but there are many other solutions, such as disconnecting the drain or lining a portion of the house lateral without an excavation.

9. Does the resident need to be home when the Smoke Testing is performed?

Homeowners do not need to be home and at no time will field crews need to enter the residence. Field inspectors will be noticeable documenting the testing, taking photos and measuring distances so that the defects may be found at a later date and repaired.

10. What if a test yields no smoke defects?

Obviously, if the sanitary sewer line and the lateral are in good condition, and there are no drainage facilities connected to them, the smoke has no place to go other than up the house vent stack, as it is supposed to. However, sometimes the smoke doesn't appear at all even though there is a defect. The Sewer Division crews are trained to identify these "suspect" situations and performed a dye test to conclusively determine whether the suspect is positive or negative. But this is a subject for its own set of QAs.

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1. What is required to complete the work?

A permit and scope of work from the contractor are required.

2. What do I do after my plumber completes the work?

A final plumbing inspection by the Village of Deerfield is required to verify correction of the cross-connection. 

3. Are there any fees waived?

All permitting fees are waived excluding the $80 Village of Deerfield plumbing inspection.

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1. Who's eligible?

The Village’s Taxi Subsidy Program is open to Deerfield residents aged 65 and older and to those with documented disabilities. This service is provided at no cost for our residents.

2. How does the program work?

Registered participants are provided with up to 50 one-way-tickets each month for taxi rides beginning and/or ending in Deerfield. Please note that a ticket does not constitute a tip.
- Rides Beginning and Ending Within Village Limits: A rider submits 1 ticket plus $1. The total cost of the trip is $1.
- Rides Beginning or Ending Outside Village Limits: A rider submits 1 ticket and $5 is taken off the metered fare.
- Caregivers: Caregivers can ride with the registered rider for a cost of $1.

3. Are airport trips covered by the Taxi Subsidy Program?

No. Trips to/from the airport are no longer eligible for the Taxi Subsidy Program.

4. What if there is more than 1 registered rider using the same taxi?

If there are two registered riders, each rider submits 1 coupon plus $0.50. If there are 3 registered riders, each rider submits 1 coupon plus $0.25.

5. Which taxi companies can we call?

You may call American Taxi at 847-566-3131 or 303 Taxi at 847-405-0303.

6. How do I sign up?

Fill out a registration form provided at Village Hall and return it to: Village Hall, 850 Waukegan Road, Deerfield, IL 60015. For more information or to register, contact Management Analyst David Fitzgerald-Sullivan at 847-719-7400.

7. How do I report complaints?

If you experience any problems with taxi drivers while using a Taxi Subsidy Program ticket, please do the following:

1. Record the day and time of the trip 2. Record the Taxi Company and Taxi Number 3. Call David Fitzgerald-Sullivan at the Deerfield Village Manager's Office at 847-719-7400

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1. Do I need to register my vehicle with the Village?

Yes. Each vehicle garaged or registered with the Village must have a valid vehicle sticker displayed in the windshield at all times. Stickers expire July 1 of each year. The annual fee for the vehicle sticker is $30.

2. I did not receive a renewal form for my vehicle sticker. What do I do?

If you did not receive a renewal form by mail, contact the Finance Department at 847.945.5000 before July 1 and make arrangements to fill out a new form. You may also add a vehicle online here and purchase your sticker online. Stickers purchased, for any reason, after July 1 are subject to a 50% penalty. Renewals are sent out mid-May every year.

3. I purchased my sticker(s) online. When and how will I receive them?

Stickers purchased online will be mailed to you directly. Customers typically receive their stickers within 3 to 5 business days of purchase.

4. I sold my car and bought a new vehicle. Can I re-use my current sticker?

If you are able to transfer the sticker, you may do so. Please contact the Finance Department at 847.945.5000 to inform us of updated vehicle information. If you are unable to transfer your sticker, a replacement sticker can be obtained for $1 from the Village Hall (850 Waukegan Road) between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Replacement stickers cannot be purchased online.

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1. What do I do if my refuse, recycling or yard waste is missed?

Call Lakeshore Recycling at 844.NEED.LRS (844.633.3577) to report misses or problems.

2. How do I determine the date of my refuse collection?

The Village is split up into three sections. 

3. How can I dispose of construction debris?

Construction debris must be placed at the curb and amounts are limited. Individual pieces are limited to 50 pounds for collection at the curb.

4. How can I dispose of larger household items?

Items like furniture, carpeting, etc. are picked up free of charge at the curb but must be broken down to 50 pounds if possible, and can be no longer than 4 foot in length and 18 inches in diameter. One item is allowed per week free of charge. "White goods" collections must be requested by calling Lakeshore Recycling at 844.NEED.LRS (844.633.3577).

5. What are 'holidays' for refuse collections?

Holiday refuse collection occurs when a holiday falls on or before your regularly scheduled collection day. Collection will be 1 day later that week. New Years Day, Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas are the holidays that affect the collection schedule.

6. Where are recyclables collected?

Recyclables should be placed on the curb in the container provided by the waste hauler.

7. What materials may be recycled?

Acceptable items are:
- Newspapers
- Magazines
- Plastic Bottles
- Containers Number 1 Through Number 5
- Glass Bottles
- Jars
- Aluminum
- Tin
- Steel Cans

Items not accepted are:
- Pizza Boxes
- Plastic Bags
- Packing Peanuts

8. When are yard waste collections?

Yard waste is collected once per week from April 1st until December 15th. Items should be in a 35 gallon paper bag & have a sticker affixed to the bag. Yard waste may also be placed in your compost container at no additional cost.

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1. How much do yard waste stickers cost?

Yard waste stickers are $3.11 each.

2. What requires a yard waste sticker?

The Village requires that all grass, leaves, brush and other organic garden and yard waste be placed in a bag with a sticker. Bundled branches also require a yard waste sticker.

3. Where can I purchase a yard waste sticker?

Stickers may be purchased at the following locations:

- Village Hall, 850 Waukegan Rd

- Deerbrook Jewel, 16 Waukegan Rd

- Craftwood Lumber and Hardware, 1590 Old Deerfield Rd, Highland Park

- Highland Park Jewel Osco, 1600 Deerfield Rd, Highland Park

- Heinen's, 2503 Waukegan Rd, Bannockburn

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1. How do I find out if my property is in a flood plain or flood zone?

To find out if your property is located in a flood plain or flood zone go to FEMA's website, click “find a flood map online.” Go to “product search by address,” select “public flood map,” type in your address, and click “product search.” Click “view” to view the flood map of your area. You can also contact the Village’s Engineering Department with flood plain questions. Visit FEMA's website.

2. What is the role of the Board of Zoning Appeals?

The Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) holds public hearings on requests for variations and modifications to the Zoning Ordinance, which include variations from minimum lot requirements; bulk regulations; off-street parking and loading requirements; nonconformities; and modifications for fences and signs. The BZA has certain criteria that need to be met before a variation or modification can be granted. The BZA is a seven member Commission which meets on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of each month at 7:30 p.m. at the Village Hall. The Board of Trustees considers the BZA’s recommendation and makes a final decision. The staff liaison for the BZA is Clint Case, Code Enforcement Supervisor, who can be reached at 847-719-7472.

3. What are the current public hearing fees?

The public hearing fee is $175 plus the cost of publishing the legal notice in the newspaper and any county recording fees for ordinances and other documents.