Landscaping Practices

On March 13, 2023, the Village Board took action that will impact lawn maintenance and landscaping practices in Oak Park moving forward.

As of June 1, 2025, no gasoline-powered leaf blower may be operated in Oak Park at any time. There are limited exemptions for Police and Fire personnel responding to an emergency or to clear fallen trees and provide emergency clearance for public safety. The use of portable generators to power electric leaf blowers, or to recharge batteries, will also be prohibited.

All landscaping/lawn maintenance company working within the Village must register as a contractor. To learn more about contractor registration, please contact the Permit Division at permits@oak-park.us. Any contractor owning or operating any lawn maintenance or landscaping business within the Village must obtain a license to do so. Information about obtaining a lawn maintenance license will be available and shared with local landscaping companies. To learn more about the business licensing process, lawn maintenance or landscape business operators are encouraged to contact the Village’s Development Customer Services department at business@oak-park.us.

Currently, gas-powered leaf blowers may be operated only between October 1-May 31. Electric leaf blowers may be used year-round. The operation of all equipment is allowed Monday-Friday between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. and on Saturday and Sunday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. These hours differ and are more restrictive than those listed in the Village Code’s noise ordinance, which applies between the hours of 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. The use of any leaf blower in excess of more than 65 decibels, as rated by manufacturer’s specifications, is also prohibited at any time under the current Village Code.

The actions taken by the Board in March aim to further help the community achieve its goals set forth in the Climate Ready Oak Park plan of improving community health and environmental quality. More information about the plan is available at www.oak-park.us/climateready.