Question: Who should I contact to report the accumulation of trash and debris on a property?

Answer: It is considered a public nuisance to accumulate on any premises or upon any public street or alley any waste, refuse, trash, or garbage. To report the accumulation of waste or garbage on a property within the City, please contact the Building and Safety Department at (217) 732-6318 or at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Upon receipt of a report of the accumulation of waste and garbage on a property the Building and Safety Office performs an inspection of the property and sends a letter to the owner of the property directing them to clear the property of the accumulated waste or garbage.

Question: Where is the proper location for the storage of waste containers and bags of garbage when not being placed out for collection?

Answer:It is unlawful to store any garbage or refuse containers in the front yard of any residential property located in the City. This restriction does not apply to garbage or refuse in a container placed in the front yard of residential property on the day of collection. When not placed out for collection, garbage and refuse containers must be stored to the side or rear of the home and not at the front of the home in the front yard. It is also recommended that all garbage be stored in waste containers with lids to prevent animals from ripping open the bags and scattering the garbage about the property.