The Illinois Native Homeowner's Landscaping Act — Complete Guide
Last Updated: January 2025 | Reading Time: 9 minutes
What the Act Does
The Illinois Native Homeowner's Landscaping Act prohibits homeowners associations and municipalities from banning native plant landscaping on residential property. The Act recognizes that native plants provide ecological benefits — stormwater management, pollinator habitat, and reduced chemical use — that outweigh aesthetic preferences for conventional turf.
Under the Act, an HOA cannot deny approval for native landscaping solely on aesthetic grounds when the plants are Illinois native species and the homeowner follows the notification process.
The Notification Process — Step by Step
- Prepare your plant list. Identify each species by common and scientific name. Confirm each is an Illinois native species using Illinois Wildflowers or the Illinois Native Plant Society.
- Write your maintenance plan. Document how you will maintain the garden — see our Maintenance Plan guide for a template.
- Submit written notification to your HOA before installation. Include the plant list, maintenance plan, a site description, and a statement that all species are Illinois natives. Send by certified mail or email with delivery confirmation.
- Retain proof of delivery. Your protection under the Act is strongest when you can prove the HOA was notified in advance.
- Respond to any HOA questions in writing. Keep all correspondence.
What HOAs Can Still Require in Illinois
- Reasonable maintenance standards — your garden must be actively managed, not abandoned
- Setback or border requirements — defined edges between your garden and neighboring property or sidewalks
- Invasive species exclusion — the Act protects native plants, not invasive species
What to Do if Your HOA Violates the Act
- Respond in writing citing the Native Homeowner's Landscaping Act by name
- Include a copy of your original notification and proof of delivery
- Request that any fine or violation notice be withdrawn in writing within 30 days
- If the HOA persists, consult an Illinois real estate attorney — HOA enforcement contrary to state law exposes the association to liability
Sample Notification Letter
[Date]
To: [HOA Board / Architectural Review Committee]
Re: Notification of Native Landscaping Installation Under the Illinois Native Homeowner's Landscaping Act
This letter provides notification, pursuant to the Illinois Native Homeowner's Landscaping Act, of my intent to install native plant landscaping at [address].
All species to be planted are Illinois native species (list attached). A written maintenance plan is also attached. The garden will be bordered by [edging description] and maintained on the attached schedule.
Under the Act, this landscaping may not be prohibited or denied solely on aesthetic grounds. I welcome any questions and am happy to discuss the installation with the board.
Sincerely,
[Name, address, contact]
For more on Illinois state law, see our full Illinois state guide.