The purpose of enforcing code compliance is
to protect the health and safety of the entire community. It is the
responsibility of the Code Enforcement Division to work in partnership with
property owners, community organizations and other government agencies to
maintain a desirable living environment in Will County.
What Codes are Enforced?
The Code Enforcement Division is responsible
for enforcing compliance with the International Property Maintenance
Code, the Will County Building Ordinance, other
adopted codes and standards, as well as rules and regulations required by
State law.
Common Code Violations
The following list includes some common code
violations:
- Substandard or dangerous building
conditions
- Dilapidated accessory structures,
including fences
- Accumulations of junk and debris
- Abandoned/inoperable vehicles
- Demolitions
- Building without a permit
What to Do When Violations Occur
The Code Enforcement Division responds to
complaints received from residents of Will County. Complaints may be
An inspector will investigate every complaint
received. If a violation is observed, the inspector will attempt to
obtain the cooperation of the property owner and/or tenant where the
violation is occurring. A letter detailing the violation will be sent
that provides a limited time to bring the property into compliance.
Most of the time, this is all that is necessary to ensure compliance.
If the cooperation of the owner/tenant cannot be
obtained in a satisfactory manner, the violation is forwarded to the Will
County State’s Attorney for prosecution. This process is time
consuming and can result in substantial fines and legal fees for the
violator, therefore voluntary compliance is always preferable.
Important Phone Numbers
Below is a list of important phone numbers residents
may call if they have questions or concerns about possible code violations:
Will County Offices
Land Use Department
- Code Enforcement Division: 815-774-3327
- Building Division: 815-727-8634
- Planning Division: 815-727-8430
- Subdivision Engineering Division: 815-727-8476
- Waste Services Division: 815-727-8834
- Zoning Division: 815-727-8850
Sheriff (emergency): 911
Sheriff (non-emergency): 815-727-8895
Animal Control: 815-462-5633
State’s Attorney: 815-727-8453
Health Department: 815-727-8480
Human Service Dept.: 815-740-5350
State of Illinois Offices
Dept. of Children & Family Services (Chicago
office): 312-814-6800
Environmental Protection Agency (Des Plaines
office): 847-294-4000
Frequently Asked Questions
My landlord will not fix a plumbing problem.
What can I do?
All plumbing facilities must be in good working
condition. If your landlord will not fix the problem, contact the Code
Enforcement Division. We will work with the landlord to fix the
problem.
My neighbor’s sanitary system empties
directly onto the surface of the ground. Is this legal?
No, sanitary systems must discharge to a septic
system or municipal sewer. Contact the Will County Health
Department, Environmental Health Division at 815-727-8671 to report this
violation.
Can a stove be used for space heating?
No, cooking appliances of any kind may not be used
for interior space heating.
Someone is living in a “red tagged” house.
What should I do?
Contact the Code Enforcement Division (code@willcountylanduse.com
or 815-774-3327) to make sure the house is secured and all occupants are
prevented from entering.
