Permitted Hours of Operation

Landscaping equipment, whether gas or electric powered, may only be operated legally between the hours of:

 Landscape ContractorsResidents Maintaining Own Property
Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 8 a.m. to dusk
Weekends and Holidays 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. 9 a.m. to dusk

These limitations do not apply to snow removal activities; public property and golf course maintenance; and cleanup after severe storms. 

To report a violation of these rules, contact the Lake Bluff Police Department at (847) 234-8760, extension 2. Please know that, unfortunately, the Village cannot act on delayed reports of violations.

Watering Hours

Water may not be used for irrigation (e.g. watering lawns) between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. between May 15 and September 15.

Gas vs. Electric Landscaping Equipment

The Village encourages residents to reduce their use of gas-powered landscaping equipment. Electric-powered landscaping equipment is quieter and reduces pollution generated by comparatively inefficient gasoline engines. The quality and battery life of electric equipment continues to improve and is now more than adequate for professional firms as well as homeowners. The Village is beginning to require its own contractors to use electric equipment and hopes you will consider making the same choice.

Landscape Contractor Tips

Here are some tips when selecting a landscape contractor:

  • The Village does not license landscape contractors, so these companies will not have a local license.
  • Ensure your landscape contractor carries adequate general liability, automobile liability, and workman’s compensation insurance for job related injuries or health risks.
  • Request the landscape contractor conduct a hazards assessment of your property prior to starting any work.  A hazards assessment should include identifying, for example, safety issues such as: uneven terrain; fall hazards; overhead wires; and legal and appropriate places to park trucks and related equipment.
  • Understand the training that a contractor requires of their employees, as well as the company’s drug and alcohol policy.
  • Avoid having work performed when it’s raining or wet outside.
  • Consider the reputation of the landscape contractor and speak to friends and neighbors or search the internet for references on past performance.
  • Ask if the landscape contractor belongs to any professional organization for landscape companies.