Villa law promotes native plant species

SPRINGFIELD – A new law led by State Senator Karina Villa will allow a higher volume of native plant species to be grown, enhancing the state’s native landscape.

“The biodiversity of our state, including our pollinators, birds and soil, depends heavily on native plants,” said Villa (D-West Chicago). “Providing opportunities for individuals to embrace the native landscape of our state will serve to preserve our state’s natural ecosystems and agriculture.”

The new law allows residents living in a community with a homeowners’ association to grow native plant species in their yards as long as the area is maintained. Homeowners’ associations will be prohibited from imposing height restrictions or impairing proper maintenance of native landscapes.

About 30% of homes in Illinois belong to a homeowners’ association. This law will allow native landscapes to be planted in an additional 1.5 million homes across the state.

“Preserving the unique beauty of Illinois’ native plant life is an essential piece of the fabric of our community’s culture,” said State Representative Laura Faver Dias (D-Grayslake). “I’ll always prioritize protecting the natural world around us, both for the sake of the memories I have experiencing the parks and gardens and greenery that Illinois has to offer, and for the sake of our kids who deserve the same opportunities.”

House Bill 5296 was signed into law Friday and is effective immediately.

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