Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely! If space is available, residents and pass holders are welcome to register for a time slot online or in-person after it has begun. As a reminder, at this time everyone is limited to one open swim time slot visit per day.

Our team understands that summer plans and arrangements can change. Please reach out to our team to let us know if there are questions that we can answer to help you determine how to proceed with your summer aquatic center pass. Season pass refunds may be requested and processed up until the aquatic center opens for the season on May 29, 2021.

Yes, the concession stand will be open for the 2021 summer season. The Parks and Recreation Department is excited to welcome Freddies Inc. to the Aquatic Center this summer season! We are looking forward to an all new and delicious menu!

Snack and beverages (other than water) may be packed in a lunch-sized, soft-sided cooler and are allowed in the concession area only. Bulk, commercially packaged, or delivered foods are not allowed in the Aquatic Center. They may be consumed outside of the Aquatic Center, at picnic tables located near the Aquatic Center in Proesel Park.

Weather closures will be posted on the Parks and Recreation Department page. Guests are welcome to call the aquatic center at 847-673-6870 for facility closure updates and information.

Yes, but be sure to make sure that the other person knows that you have picked up their packet to avoid confusion. See our packet pickup schedule.

Yes, this can be a real time saver, but please let us know you'd like to do this a couple of days ahead of time to give us the time to put your order together.

While we make every effort to order enough shirts so that everyone receives their preferred size, the earlier you pick up your race packet, the better the chance that you'll get the size you prefer.

You may be able to swap out your shirt for a different size the week following the race at our office, depending on the sizes we have left. Since we order shirts based on the sizes people have registered for, we can't guarantee that we'll have the size you're looking for, but we'll do our best.

Runners and walkers will receive their Turkey Trot finisher medal when they cross the finish line. Medals will only be given to those who finish their event.

No, like the United States Postal Service (USPS) we go on rain or shine (or freezing temps). Per our policy, we do not allow refunds.

If lightning or severe weather is imminent before or during the event, all persons shall seek shelter either in their vehicles, the community center, or the fire department. Once inside shelter, emergency personnel will communicate further instructions.

Please check the forecast and dress warmly. We highly suggest multiple layers, hats, gloves and a neck gaiter.

Yes, you can safely check your gear in the Gear Check Tent.

Yes, you are welcome to stop at the BP station on Pratt & Cicero on the 10K course the race.

We do not give out medals on race day. Race winners, based on chip-time, will be contacted after the race to let them know how they can receive their medal. The overall male and female winners of each race, based on gun-time, will be announced after the race.

Yes, you can run or walk with a baby jogger or stroller as long as you start at the back of the pack.

Yes, you can operate a wheelchair or push another registered racer in a wheelchair as long as you start at the back of the pack. The Turkey Trot does not currently have a racing wheelchair division. Please contact the race director at 847-677-9740 or email the Parks and Recreation Department if you are interested in developing this division.

For safety reasons, bicycles, skates, scooters, and other wheeled personal vehicles (other than wheel chairs) are not allowed on the racing course.

No, for safety reasons, we can't allow animals on the course. Please leave your pets (including turkeys) at home.

Absolutely! Dressing up is definitely a fun part of this race. Participants are HIGHLY encouraged to dress up. Of course, you're not limited to turkeys - we welcome all crazy outfits.

Please call us at 847-677-9740 or email the race director.

The Village allows complaints to be submitted anonymously. However, this can make it difficult for code enforcement staff to seek additional information about a complaint and to provide you with status updates regarding efforts to gain compliance.

It is preferred that contact information be provided with a complaint for the reasons noted above. The Village's policy is not to disclose the identity of a complainant to a violating property owner. However, it is important to note that a complainant's identity can become known through a request for documentation regarding a case through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).

Potential code violations can be reported in a number of ways:

• Submitting a service request here
• Contacting the Code Enforcement Officer by phone at 847-745-4811, or by emailing the Code Enforcement Officer.
• Complaints that require an immediate response after business hours can be reported to the Police Department non-emergency number at 847-673-2167

Once a complaint is received, the code enforcement staff will investigate the complaint, determine what code violations exist (if any), and work with the violating property owner to gain compliance.

A Violation Notice is issued if code enforcement staff observes or is made aware of a potential code violation. The notice should indicate the nature of the potential violation and the staff contact person. Cooperating with code enforcement staff is the best way to determine if there is a violation, and what needs to be done to gain compliance.

The goal of code enforcement is to ensure that all properties are maintained and operated at an appropriate standard, as established by the Village Code. When properties are not maintained at an appropriate standard, it can have a detrimental impact on the quality of life of neighboring residents and businesses, property values, and the community’s overall character

• Building materials must be stored entirely within the property where construction activity is taking place, and cannot be stored in the public right-of-way.
• Building materials cannot be stored on a property unless active construction is taking place.
• Depending on the nature of an improvement, a Building Permit may be required. Please contact the Community Development Department if you have any questions about what types of work require a Building Permit.
• Section 14-15-10 of the Village Code includes standards related to the management of project sites during the duration of construction.
• Construction is permitted during the following hours, with the exception of federal holidays, when construction activity is prohibited:

Monday through Friday: 7:00 am to 6:00 ppm
Saturday: 7:00 am to Noon
Sunday: Construction prohibited

• All commercial operations, including the storage of materials, must take place in an enclosed structure unless otherwise authorized by the Village through a Special Use permit or zoning variation.
• Advertising signs cannot be placed in the public right-of-way.

• Construction waste and electronics will not be collected/disposed of by the Village or Groot.
• Refuse stored outside of dwelling, garage, or utility building must be placed in a clean garbage container with a tight-fitting lid and stored in the rear or side yard of the prime dwelling structure.
• Containers may be placed at the curb in front of each dwelling according to the following schedule:
  • Containers may be placed at the curb no earlier than 3:00 p.m. on the day prior to the scheduled Garbage Pickup.
  • Containers must be returned to the storage location by 8:00 a.m. on the day after collection.

Short-term rentals (i.e. Air B n B, VRBO, etc.) are permitted, but property can only be rented as a short-term rental one time per calendar year. (Any stay less than 30 days is considered one short-term rental.)

• Personal belongings cannot be stored outside of a principal or accessory structure, or in a manner that causes a nuisance to other properties.
• Inoperable or unlicensed vehicles on residential property must be stored in an enclosed structure.
• Grass and weeds cannot exceed 6 inches in height.

Plowing generally begins when snow becomes more than two-inches deep and when freezing temperatures indicate that no melting will occur. If there is a light snowfall and the afternoon sun is melting the fallen snow, it will be left to Mother Nature to remove the snow.

Parking is prohibited along Pratt Avenue when two inches or more of snow accumulates. Cars parked on Pratt Avenue will be ticketed and towed. See additional alternate side parking restrictions above. Receive notifications when alternate side parking is in effect by signing up. 

Salting is necessary to prevent melting snow from turning to ice. Once ice forms and becomes bonded to the pavement, it is very difficult to remove. Salting is typically done when the snow depth is one inch or less or if an icing condition occurs. Salting begins once the snow subsides and the salt will have time to take effect. The Public Works Department strives to use salt wisely and judiciously during any snow removal effort. Snow removal conditions will be rated using the following system:

Condition 1 More Than Two Inches of Snow Is Expected

Main streets, bridges, parking lots, and other hazardous areas mentioned by the Police Department or resident complaints must be salted. The whole town will be salted only in the case of freezing rain.

Condition 2 Less Than Two Inches of Snow or an Icy Storm Is Expected

Main streets, bridges, parking lots, and other hazardous areas mentioned by the Police Department or resident complaints will be salted. The whole town will be salted only in the case of freezing rain.

Condition 3 No Snow Is Expected

Main streets, bridges, and hazardous areas will be salted. Intersections will be salted after the snow stops, depending on weather conditions.

Snow that gathers at street corners often needs to be pushed back onto the parkway so plows can fully clear the intersection and maintain a safe turning radius for vehicles. When a plow enters an intersection, the driver pushes snow in the direction of travel, which can result in one corner receiving more snow than another. This is a normal part of snow operations. Because of the size of the equipment and the need to keep routes moving efficiently during a storm, it is not practical or safe for plow drivers to maneuver through the intersection in a way that evenly distributes snow to all corners.

Snow piles at corners can occasionally create challenges near school bus stops. If snow has accumulated in an area where children wait, they may need to stand slightly up the street to safely board the bus. Please remind children not to climb or play on snow piles, as visibility is reduced and plow trucks may return for additional passes.

If snow at a particular corner is creating a visibility issue or blocking sightlines at an intersection, please contact the Public Works Department. Crews will evaluate the location and remove snow as time and conditions permit.

The Village maintains many miles of roadway, and snow operations are structured to clear streets in an organized, efficient sequence. During each winter event, plow operators work through their assigned routes in sections, beginning with the roads that carry the most traffic.

How Plowing Is Prioritized

1. Main and Collector Streets
   Plowing begins on major streets within each subdivision to ensure that primary travel routes remain open for residents, emergency vehicles, and school buses. These streets receive the first attention during every storm.

2. Secondary Residential Streets
   Once the main roads are cleared and safe, trucks move into the surrounding residential streets. Route layouts are planned to minimize backtracking, conserve fuel and salt, and create consistent, predictable progress throughout the Village.

3. Cul-de-Sacs and Dead Ends
   These areas require more maneuvering and take additional time.

   • Dead-end streets typically take about 10 minutes to clear.

   • Cul-de-sacs with a center island take about 20 minutes.

   • Cul-de-sacs without islands may take up to 30 minutes, as trucks have limited space to turn.

4. Alleys (where applicable)
   After primary and residential streets are addressed, crews follow up in alleys to ensure consistent access throughout each neighborhood.

The Village is only responsible for maintaining streets that fall within its jurisdiction. Several major roadways in Lincolnwood are maintained by other agencies, not by the Village.

• Lincoln Avenue, Cicero Avenue, Touhy Avenue, Devon Avenue, and McCormick Boulevard are maintained by the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT).

• Crawford Avenue is maintained by Cook County.

Because these roads are not under Village control, Lincolnwood does not plow, salt, or perform maintenance on them. Please contact the appropriate agency for concerns related to these routes.

Unfortunately, this is one of the consequences of owning a home in northern Illinois. Despite popular opinion, crews do not place snow in driveways on purpose. There is no practical way for the snow plow operator to cut off the windrow of snow when crossing a driveway. This problem is especially acute in cul-de-sacs because this is a very confined space. Cul-de-sacs require that all of the snow that is on the roadway within that confined space be placed along the outside of the circle. The problem is compounded by the fact that each homeowner then must clear their driveway, which places large piles on the corners of the drives.

In a cul-de-sac, it is extremely difficult to have the truck push snow onto a center island. Trucks are not built to be articulated into an angle that would allow placing a portion of the snow on the island, and centrifugal force causes the snow to move off of the plow toward the outside of the circle. Public Work's goal in clearing all streets is to maintain as much of the normal pavement width as possible, while at the same time, allowing acceptable access to the mailboxes by the postal carriers.

One thing you can do to reduce the amount of snow that is plowed in front of your driveway is to place as much of the snow as possible to the right side of your drive, as you face the street. This reduces the chance of snow previously removed from the driveway being pushed back onto your drive. This suggestion, however, may not work in cul-de-sacs that have driveway openings placed close together.

One major problem that works against snow removal operations is people shoveling or blowing snow back onto the street after it has been plowed and salted. Snow that has been deposited onto the street could refreeze and cause a hazardous condition for you or your neighbors. Please place the snow that you shovel off of your driveway and sidewalk onto the adjacent parkway and not back onto the street. When it starts to snow, park your vehicle off of the street. This protects the car from being splashed with slush and salt, prevents the car from being plowed in, or from receiving a ticket and being towed. Check that your mailbox and post are in good repair and that they are behind the curb, not leaning out over the street. If there is a fire hydrant in front of your home, please try to clear the snow around the hydrant. It is there for your protection and that of your neighbors. If you have any questions regarding our snow removal efforts, please call the Public Works at 847-675-0888. If a snow-related emergency occurs after 3:30 pm, you can call the non-emergency Police Department number at 847-673-2167.

When two inches or more of snowfall has accumulated, residents must follow alternate side street parking regulations:

• Even-numbered calendar days (M–F, 8:30 AM–3:30 PM):
   Park on the side of the street with even-numbered addresses.
• If you live at 6900 N Lincoln Avenue, you (and all your neighbors) would park on your side of the street on December 2nd and park on the other side on December 3rd.
• Odd-numbered calendar days (M–F, 8:30 AM–3:30 PM):
   Park on the side with odd-numbered addresses
• If you live at 7001 N Lawndale, you (and all your neighbors) would park on your side of the street on December 1st, and on the other side the next day.

Considerations:

• Alternate side parking is not in effect after 3:30 pm,  on weekends, or major holidays.
• Pratt Avenue is a designated snow emergency route after 2 inches of snowfall; no parking is permitted. 
• The goal of Public Works is to plow curb to curb, and following alternate side parking allows the plows to find the curb and clear the snow. This prevents snow and ice buildup both on the street and in the parking zones. 

 Unfortunately, our plow operators are not able to direct snow away from specific driveways or garages. Plows are designed to push snow to the curb line to keep the roadway safe and passable, which can naturally result in some snow accumulating at driveway openings. 

Here are a few tips that may help reduce the amount of snow build-up at the end of your driveway:

• Shovel a pocket on the right side of your driveway (the side the plow approaches from). This gives snow from the plow a place to drop before it reaches your driveway opening. It's generally recommended to have a 5-8 foot pocket to reduce snow flow onto driveway aprons. 

• Clear the area near the curb after each plow pass, if conditions allow. This helps prevent buildup as the plow makes additional passes during the storm.

• Keep snow on your property, rather than pushing it back into the street. This helps us maintain clear roadways and maintain the roads with predictability. Snow being shoveled back on to plowed and treated streets creates opportunity for unknown icy patches. 

• Shovel early and often during long-duration storms so snow doesn’t compact or freeze at the driveway. 

Based on images captured by the automated traffic enforcement system, your vehicle was determined to have been used to commit a violation of the red light at the intersection of Touhy Avenue and Lincoln Avenue.

To view the images and video data, log on to Violation Info and enter the Violation Number and Personal Identification Number (PIN) located at the right of your Notice of Violation. If you do not have access to the internet at home, computers are available, at no cost, at the Lincolnwood Public Library.

If you live in Lincolnwood, you may have your appeal heard at an Administrative Hearing. Administrative Hearings are on the fourth Thursday of each month, at the Lincolnwood Village Hall, 6900 N. Lincoln Avenue, Lincolnwood, IL. A Hearing Request Form is included with the Notice of Violation. If you do not live in Lincolnwood, you may complete the attached Non-Resident Contes (PDF) by Mail form. Each completed form will be reviewed by the Administrative Hearing Officer.

The Village of Lincolnwood takes traffic safety very seriously. The fine is $100 for each violation

Violation of the Village Automated Traffic Enforcement System is a civil matter and is treated like a parking citation. The violation is not reported to the Illinois Secretary of State.

To see if you need a permit for an upcoming project, please view our required permit lists for commercial or residential projects. 

Permits Required List - Commercial

Permits Required List - Residential

If all proper documentation has been submitted at the time of application submittal it will take 7-10 business days for a general building permit.

Email the Community Development email address, commdev@lwd.org.

• 2021 International Building Code, as amended
• 2021 International Existing Building Code, as amended
• 2021 International Residential Code, as amended
• 2021 International Fire Code, as amended
• 2021 International Mechanical Code, as amended
• 2021 International Fuel Gas Code, as amended
• 2021 International Property Maintenance Code, as amended
• 2021 International (Private) Swimming Pool and Spa Code, as amended
• 2014 Illinois Plumbing Code, as amended
• 2024 Illinois Energy Conservation Code
• 2018 Illinois Accessibility Code
• 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design
• 2021 NFPA 101 Life Safety Code
• 2021 NFPA 70 - National Electric Code

The Village may have historical documents on your property. However, the best way to get a Plat of Survey is to hire a private surveyor.

Please complete an Application for Certificate of Payment for the Sale of a Property. The application is available online and at the Finance Department in Village Hall, Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Please come in person to the Finance Department in Village Hall, Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Water bills can be paid online, by mail to the Village of Lincolnwood, Finance Department, 6900 N. Lincoln Avenue, Lincolnwood, IL 60712, at the drop box outside of Village Hall, and in person in Finance Department at Village Hall.

Parking tickets can be paid online, by mail to the Village of Lincolnwood, Finance Department, 6900 N. Lincoln Avenue, Lincolnwood, IL 60712, at drop box outside of Village Hall, and in person in Finance Department at Village Hall.

Please come in person to the Finance Department in Village Hall, Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Please come in person to the Finance Department in Village Hall, Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Please contact the Finance Department at (847) 673-1540.

Roads naturally degrade over time due to traffic, weather, and environmental conditions. Repaving restores the road surface, ensuring safer and smoother travel.

Public Works selects roads for repaving based on pavement conditions, visual inspections, traffic volume analysis, budget constraints, and long-term planning goals.

Repaving typically takes about two weeks, one week involving preparation, concrete curb and sidewalk work, and another week for milling, inspections, repaving, and marking. Weather conditions may influence the timeline.

Water Main Work: 4-7 weeks

• Saw cutting the pavement: 1 day
• Excavation and Installation: 1 week for excavation, 1-3 weeks for new water main and valves installation
• Pressure Testing and Chlorination: Approximately 1 week
• New Water Services Installation: 1-2 weeks
• Abandonment of Old Water Mains: 1-2 days

Concrete Work: 7-10 days

• Saw Cutting the Concrete: 1 day
• Concrete Removal: 1-2 days
• Framing Sidewalks and Curbs: 1-2 days
• Pouring Concrete: 1 day
• Concrete Curing Process: 5 days

Road Resurfacing: 1-2 weeks

• Milling, Patching, Binder, Surface Course: Approximately 1-2 weeks

Site Restoration:

• Sod Installation: Approximately 1 week (Sod can only be placed after September when the daily temperatures drop below 80 degrees)

Note: Construction timelines may be delayed due to weather.

A water main is the principal pipeline that conveys clean, potable water from the pump house throughout the Village, connecting individual properties via smaller service lines. The Village maintains over 65 miles of water mains throughout the Village. 

Water mains are replaced based on age and condition. Over time, they can deteriorate, leading to structural weaknesses. Increased water demand may also require upgrading to larger pipes.

Water shutdowns occur when the new water main is being connected to the water system or when your service is switched from the old main to the new one.

Water shutdowns are anticipated to last no more than 6 hours, typically only a few hours. They usually occur between 9 am to 3 pm but can be extended for complicated installations. Shutdowns generally happen Monday through Thursday, except during emergencies. Service reconnections typically involve a 1-2 hour shutoff.

Yes, a member of the Village construction team will hand-deliver shutdown notices 24-48 hours in advance. However, there are instances where a water main breaks and an emergency shutdown is required. The Village does its best to notify the affected homes as soon as possible during a main break.

Water valves are critical in water distribution systems for:

• Control and Management: Valves allow precise control of water flow, enabling the isolation of specific sections for maintenance or emergencies without affecting the entire system.
• Maintenance and Repairs: Valves facilitate efficient repairs, minimizing service interruptions for residents.
• System Integrity: They help maintain water pressure and prevent leaks, ensuring consistent water flow to your home.

Concrete work is essential for repairing any damage caused by recent infrastructure projects. This includes fixing curbs, driveways, and sidewalks to ensure safety, functionality, and aesthetics.

Curbs are vital for safety and aesthetics. They direct stormwater to inlets, aid in drainage, guide snowplows, and enhance pedestrian safety by elevating walkways.

If your street is part of the yearly infrastructure program, the contractors may be preparing for work, such as saw-cutting pavement, which requires the street to be clear of cars. It is possible that the contractors may be using staging areas where heavy equipment, machinery, and materials are stored.

If your street is not on the yearly infrastructure program, it could mean that the Public Works Department needs greater access to the area.  Public Works may be preparing to trim or remove trees in the area or flush hydrants.  

There might be periods when you don't see workers on-site due to various factors, such as:

• Preparation/Testing Work: Some phases of construction, like material curing or waiting for tests to pass, don't require active labor.
• Weather Delays: Inclement weather can delay outdoor work, causing temporary pauses.
• Scheduling: Contractors may be coordinating with other crews or waiting for materials or equipment to arrive.
• Work Shifts: The construction schedule may include work during specific hours or days, so you might not see workers if they're not scheduled at that time.

If you ever have any questions about a project’s status, please call Public Works at 847-675-0888. 

Hydrant flushing is a routine process where fire hydrants are opened to allow water to flow through the pipes at a high speed. This helps clean out any build-up of minerals, rust, or sediment from the water system.

Hydrant flushing is essential for maintaining the quality and safety of our drinking water. Over time, particles can collect in the pipes, and flushing ensures that clean water continues to flow. It also allows the Village to check/exercise that hydrants are working properly, which is crucial for firefighting efforts.

Yes, it can temporarily cause your water to appear cloudy or discolored. This happens because the fast-moving water stirs up harmless minerals and sediments. While it may look unappealing, the water is still safe to use. However, it is recommended to let the water run until it clears before drinking, cooking, or laundry. This is best done through a garden hose or large fixture.

Flushing typically occurs in the spring and fall, when temperatures are moderate, and we can inspect hydrants without the risk of freezing pipes.

Each hydrant is flushed for several minutes to ensure the water is clear and the hydrant is working. The entire process for the Village may take a few weeks, but we try to minimize disruptions.

Yes, signage is posted at the intersections of each block and information is put out through Lincolnwood Local and the Village Website. 

If your water looks discolored after flushing, run the cold water tap or garden hose for a few minutes until it clears. It is recommended to wait to do laundry until the water runs clear to avoid any staining of clothes.

Yes. Flushing helps maintain the health of the water system by keeping water fresh and ensuring hydrants are ready in case of an emergency. It’s a small inconvenience that helps guarantee safe, reliable water for everyone in the community.

No Mow 'til Mother’s Day is a voluntary initiative encouraging residents to delay mowing their lawns until Mother’s Day to support pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Allowing grass and early-blooming flowers to grow provides vital early-season habitats and food sources for pollinators emerging from winter. If you are interested in participating, please fill out the registration form. 

Mother's Day is the second Sunday in May. In 2025 it is May 11. 

Delaying mowing allows early-season flowers and ground cover plants—such as clover and violets—to bloom, providing vital nectar and pollen for bees and other pollinators emerging from winter dormancy.

No, participation is completely voluntary. Residents are encouraged, not mandated, to delay mowing as part of a broader effort to support urban biodiversity and pollinator health.

Yes, but there is no cost to participate. Registering assists Public Works and Community Development in ensuring that no unnecessary violations will be issued and that the location will not interfere with Public Works programming. 

The Village will relax enforcement of lawn height ordinances for registered participants during the No Mow ‘til Mother’s Day period for participating residents. 

However, no mow does not mean no maintenance; lawns should still be maintained to avoid creating nuisance conditions (e.g., removing excessive weeds, standing water, or debris).

Absolutely. Some residents choose to mow pathways or border areas while leaving portions of their yard natural. This helps support pollinators while still maintaining a tidy appearance. Residents can do their full yards, parts of the yard, or a small patch to experiment. 

Plants like dandelions, clover, violets, and other flowering ground covers are important early food sources for pollinators. Native wildflowers and unmowed grasses also offer shelter.

Yes! The Village encourages residents to proudly display participation signs. For the first year these will be flyers hung within windows. These can help educate neighbors and spark conversations about supporting pollinators. Printable signs will be available on the Village website.

After Mother’s Day, residents are encouraged to resume lawn maintenance. At that point, the Village will resume normal enforcement of lawn height regulations. Grass must be maintained at a height of no more than 6 inches. 

It’s best to avoid using herbicides and pesticides during this time, as they can harm pollinators. If you choose to fertilize, consider using eco-friendly, pollinator-safe products.

Participating in No Mow 'til Mother's Day offers several environmental benefits that go beyond just helping pollinators. First, reducing mowing frequency lowers the use of gas-powered lawn equipment, which decreases carbon emissions and air pollution. This contributes to cleaner air and helps mitigate climate change.

Second, longer grass has deeper root systems, which improves soil health by reducing erosion and increasing the soil's ability to retain moisture. This means your lawn may require less watering, conserving a valuable natural resource.

Third, allowing native plants and flowering ground covers to grow provides food and shelter for pollinators and other beneficial insects at a critical time in the year. This supports biodiversity and strengthens the local ecosystem.

Overall, it's a simple but impactful action that promotes a more resilient, sustainable, and pollinator-friendly environment—right in your own yard. 

There are many ways to create a welcoming environment for pollinators beyond the No Mow 'til Mother's Day period. One of the most effective steps you can take is to plant native flowers, grasses, and shrubs. Native plants are adapted to our local climate and soil, and they provide the best food and habitat for native bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other beneficial insects.

Reducing or eliminating the use of pesticides and herbicides also helps protect pollinators from harmful chemicals. Instead, consider organic or integrated pest management approaches when addressing garden issues.

Installing bee houses or creating small brush piles and bare patches of soil can offer nesting sites for solitary native bees. You can also create a dedicated pollinator garden—a space filled with diverse, flowering plants that bloom from early spring through late fall to provide consistent food sources.

For tips on selecting native plants and designing pollinator-friendly landscapes, visit the Illinois Department of Natural Resources Native Gardening Guide. This resource provides plant lists, garden designs, and maintenance tips to help you get started.

Creating a pollinator-friendly yard not only supports vital species but also adds natural beauty to your property and contributes to a healthier ecosystem for everyone.

Lead is a naturally occurring element found in small amounts in the earth’s crust. While it has some beneficial uses, like its pliability and resistance to leaks which were useful in plumbing, it can be toxic to humans and animals. Lead may also be found in paint, dust, soil, drinking water, and consumer products. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates up to 20% or more of a person’s total exposure to lead comes from drinking water. Formula fed infants can receive 40 percent to 60 percent of their exposure to lead from drinking water.

Lead can enter drinking water when plumbing materials that contain lead corrode or wear away. This chemical reaction depends on the water’s chemistry. Lead enters drinking water through your home’s plumbing. Water service lines are pipes that connect homes to the Village’s water main. In homes with lead service lines, the most common exposure to lead in water is those pipes. In homes without lead service lines, the most common exposure to lead is with chrome-plated brass faucets and plumbing with lead solder.

Lead is harmful to human health even at low exposure levels. Babies and young children are most vulnerable to the harmful effects of lead at low levels. There is no safe exposure to lead, especially for children. While everyone can be affected by lead, children under 6 and pregnant women are most vulnerable. Lead affects the health of children, pregnant women, and adults differently. For more information about the health effects of lead in drinking water, visit www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water/basic-information-about-lead-drinking-water#health/. 

The Village of Lincolnwood is required to notify customers whenever water mains, service lines, or water meters are repaired or replaced. Residents who have a water service line that is a lead pipe will be notified annually.  The Village has implemented an outreach program and will notify consumers with known or suspected lead service lines and begin targeted outreach to encourage participation in the lead service line inventory and replacement program. If a property owner chooses to replace the private side of their lead service, the Village will replace the public portion of the lead service line as well. 

Yes, the Village of Lincolnwood performs regular testing for lead throughout the distribution system, as required by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA). The results are posted within the Village’s Annual Water Quality report. You can review the Village of Lincolnwood’s 2022 Water Quality Reports at:

 https://www.lincolnwoodil.org/DocumentCenter/View/829/Water-Report-PDF?bidId=

However, the Village does not offer testing at individual homes. If you want to test your water, test kits are available at hardware stores. The IEPA maintains a list of Certified Labs for Analysis of Lead in Drinking Water, which can be found at https://epa.illinois.gov/general-information/in-your-home/resources-on-lead.html. 

Lead can be harmful even at very low levels and can accumulate in our bodies over time. No exposure to lead is considered “safe.” The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has established a blood lead “reference value” of 3.5 micrograms per deciliter, equivalent to 35 parts per billion – the same concentration as a golf ball in a swimming pool. This value represents the top 2.5% of children under 5 with the highest blood lead levels.  For more information, visit the CDC at www.cdc.gov/nceh/lead/. 

The EPA has created a lead action level of 15 parts per billion, which is the same concentration as one ounce in an Olympic swimming pool. All water systems must publish annual drinking water quality reports; find your local Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) at Consumer Confidence Reports (CCR) (epa.gov) or you can visit the Village’s website to see the Village’s Annual Water Quality Reports from past years: https://www.lincolnwoodil.org/DocumentCenter/View/829/Water-Report-PDF?bidId=. 

The Village of Lincolnwood is required by the State of Illinois to routinely monitor for lead which has not, and is not, currently found within the drinking water supply. The Village receives treated drinking water from the City of Evanston. To prevent lead from dissolving into water from lead service lines or home plumbing, Evanston adds a very small amount of phosphate, a mineral found in many foods, to prevent lead from leaching into water, a process known as corrosion control. Although corrosion control can reduce the risk of exposure to lead, the best way to assure your home is safe from lead exposure through water is to remove the potential sources of lead. 

Starting in 1986, the Safe Drinking Water Act prohibited the use of lead in pipes or connecting fixtures, like flux or solder, in public water systems and indoor plumbing. Lead service lines are more likely to be found in older cities and homes built before 1986. In Illinois, the Lead Service Line Replacement and Notification Act (LSLRNA) went into effect January of 2022. The LSLRNA requires all communities to identify all lead service lines by April 2024 and replace them by 2042. The Village is committed to meeting the requirements of the LSLRNA and currently is in process of completing their water service line material inventory. If you have determined your service line material, please contact the Public Works Department at 847-675-0888 from 8:00AM to 4:00PM, Monday – Friday or by visiting https://wsrp.cbbel.com/village-of-lincolnwood/

No. Lead in drinking water generally represents only about 20% of total exposure, according to the CDC. The most common exposure to lead is swallowing and breathing in lead paint chips and dust. However, drinking water can account for more than half of lead exposure in children. Additionally, since no level of lead is considered safe, eliminating potential sources of lead is recommended.

You may be able to determine on your own if your service line is made of lead. Service lines typically enter the home in the basement or crawl space. If the pipe is lead, it will have a dull finish that shines brightly when scratched with a key or coin. Using a magnet can also help you identify a lead pipe, because even a strong magnet will not cling to lead. If you have determined your service line material, please fill out the Service Line Inventory Survey at https://wsrp.cbbel.com/village-of-lincolnwood/ 

Starting in 1986, the Safe Drinking Water Act prohibited the use of any lead pipe, flux, or solder in public water systems or indoor plumbing up to a certain percentage. At the time, the “lead-free” was defined as solder and flux with no more than 0.2% lead and plumbing products (pipes, pipe fittings, plumbing fittings, and fixtures) with no more than 8%. As of 2014, lead-free plumbing products must contain less than 0.25% lead. Therefore, older fixtures, like faucets and aerators, could leach lead into your water.

The best way to reduce lead exposure from your drinking water is to remove all sources of lead. But there are also steps you can take right away to reduce lead levels in your water.

1. Filter the Water – Many home water filters are effective at removing lead. If you purchase a filter, make sure it is certified to NSF/ANSI 53 and NSF/ANSI 42 for lead reduction and that you maintain it properly. Find out more on filter certification at www.nsf.org/consumer-resources/articles/contaminant-reduction-claims-guide.
2. Run the Tap Before Use – Lead levels are likely at their highest when water has been sitting in a lead pipe for several hours. Clear this water from your pipes by running the cold water for 3-5 minutes before using. This allows you to draw fresh water from the Village’s water main. In efforts to conserve water, you can use this water on house plants or to flush toilets.
3. Use Cold Water for Cooking and Drinking – Always cook and prepare baby formula with cold water, because hot water dissolves lead more quickly, resulting in higher levels in water.
4. Clean Aerators – Aerators are small attachments at the tips of faucets which regulate the flow of water. They can accumulate small particles of lead in their screens. It is a good idea to remove your aerators at least monthly and clean them out.

Households with pregnant women, infants, or young children should be especially aware of the potential for lead exposure through drinking water.

If you suspect there may be lead in your home plumbing, consider having your water tested. The Village regularly tests for lead in the drinking water at a selected number of service locations. If lead is detected, consider purchasing a filter certified for lead removal or using an alternate source of water until the problem is corrected. Babies and young children are most vulnerable to the harmful effects of lead at low levels. 

No. If you purchase a water filter or home treatment device, make sure it is independently certified for lead removal and that you maintain it properly. Find out more on filter certification at www.nsf.org/consumer-resources/articles/contaminant-reduction-claims-guide.

Lead can impact animals the same way it does humans. The best way to protect people and pets from lead is to remove all sources of lead in your home.

Lead is not absorbed through the skin, therefore bathing or showering in water containing lead is not considered a health risk. 

In the Village of Lincolnwood, service lines are owned by the Village from the main up to the first shut-off. The remainder of the water service into the building is owned and maintained by the property owner. Replacing the entire lead service line is therefore a shared responsibility between the Village and each property owner. 

• For information on lead in drinking water and steps you can take to minimize exposure, call the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791 or visit: www.epa.gov/safewater/lead.
• For more information regarding sources of lead and health effects of lead exposure, visit the CDC at: https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/lead/. 
• For local water quality information, visit the Village of Lincolnwood’s Annual Water Quality Report posted at:

https://www.lincolnwoodil.org/DocumentCenter/View/829/Water-Report-PDF?bidId=. If you would like to discuss the issue with a local contact, call the Public Works Department at 847-675-0888 from 8:00AM to 4:00PM, Monday – Friday.

The Village encourages mall tenants to work with the new mall owner to figure out timing and next steps with the mall. We are not aware of the new mall owner having a ‘closing date’ for Lincolnwood Town Center, but if we do have news to share, we will place it on this website.

The Lincolnwood Town Center mall has been a treasured place for our residents and the region; however, it is a private-property and it has been declining for several years. If the new owner chooses to close the mall, then they are allowed to do so on their own accord. Should there be any news shared with the Village about the mall closing, we will place it on this website.

Staff in Community Development can assist Lincolnwood businesses in finding new space within the Village. If there is interest in relocating a business within Lincolnwood, please call 847-745-4796.

Yes, any new development will require a public hearing process and approval from the Village Board. All notice requirements for the public hearings will be made so that public input can be obtained during the approval process.

At this time, the Village has not received any redevelopment plans from the new mall property owner. However, the redevelopment plans presented at future meetings will have information on the proposed uses (e.g. retail, restaurants, etc.).

The Village has not received any timeline from the new mall owner, but when there is news received we will place it on this website.

Please contact Acting Director of Community Development Rati Akash at (847) 745-4796 or via email at rakash@lwd.org.