Illinois Homeowners Warned About Dangerous Lawn Mistake

If you've driven through an Illinois neighborhood lately, you've probably noticed it too... grass clippings all over the street.

I've mowed a lawn before, so I get it, some grass will fall in the street, BUT here's what I've seen way too often lately: Someone finishes mowing their lawn, grabs the leaf blower, and sends every stray grass clipping straight into the street. On purpose!

Friends, blowing grass into the street is not only bad etiquette and lazy, it's a serious safety hazard and illegal in Illinois!

Dangers of Blowing Grass Into the Street

I know some people are rolling their eyes and thinking a few grass clippings on the road aren't a big deal, but I'm not talking about a few grass clippings here. I'm talking about something like this:

For motorcyclists and bicyclists, grass clippings in the road, especially if they are wet, can be as slick as ice, causing tires to lose traction and increasing the risk of a serious crash. They can also be dangerous for drivers in cars and clog storm drains which leads to flooding.

Illinois Litter Control Act

Many residents like to complain that Illinois has too many laws, but when it comes to laws that keep us safe, you'll never hear an ill peep out of me.

The Illinois Litter Control Act prohibits people from dumping or improperly disposing of litter on public property (including streets, roadways, and bodies of water) and grass clippings are specifically listed as "litter" in the law.

Closeup of mower cutting the grass — saiva

If you're caught violating Illinois' Litter Control Act, beware, the penalties can add up quickly. A first offense is considered a Class B misdemeanor, and can land you a fine of $50 up to $1,500. Courts can also order offenders to clean up the mess they created, and repeat violations carry steeper criminal penalties with larger fines.

The next time you fire up the lawnmower, please remember that the street isn't your grass catcher. Aim your mower's discharge point toward your yard, bag the clippings if necessary, or simply blow them back onto your lawn when you're finished. This simple task will save you a lot of hassle and money, plus you'll help keep other community members safe on Illinois roads.