Waukegan committee backs voluntary ‘No Mow May’ concept, asks counsel to draft ordinance

Committee members on the Environmental & Sustainability Committee discussed a voluntary ‘No Mow May’ policy that would permit residents who elect to participate to avoid code citations for taller grass during May if they display a designated sign.

A committee member explained that the movement allows homeowners who opt in to delay mowing so native pollinators — especially ground‑nesting bees and early butterflies — can access early spring flowers. Participation would be voluntary; participants would display a sign (the committee noted signs are inexpensive) so code enforcement can readily distinguish intentional participation from neglect.

Alderman Felix asked whether the change would be an ordinance or a resolution; he said he preferred an ordinance that would explicitly prevent code enforcement actions for sign‑displaying participants and asked corporate counsel to draft that language. Committee members generally expressed support and directed staff to pursue a draft ordinance for future review rather than adopting immediate policy on the floor.