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The Springfield Public Works Department is responsible for maintaining andimproving the city's infrastructure to ensure a safe, clean, and functional environment for residents and businesses. The department oversees a widerange of essential services, including:

  • Street Maintenance & Repair – Filling potholes, resurfacing roads, maintaining traffic signals, and ensuring safe travel throughout the city.
  • Waste & Recycling Services – Managing garbage collection, recycling programs, yard waste disposal, and seasonal leaf pickup.
  • Sidewalks & Public Spaces – Repairing sidewalks, managing city-owned trees, and enhancing public spaces for accessibility and safety.
  • Snow & Ice Removal – Clearing roads during winter storms to keep streets safe and accessible.
  • Infrastructure Projects – Overseeing major construction projects, bridge maintenance, and city beautification efforts.

Public Works plays a crucial role in keeping Springfield running smoothly by maintaining essential city services and responding to community needs. Residents can report issues such as potholes, streetlight outages, or storm debris for prompt assistance.



Fuchs


Dave Fuchs
Director of Public Works


About Us

The Office of Public Works is responsible for planning, permitting, construction, reconstruction, and repair, of Springfield’s infrastructure including streets, boulevards, alleys, sidewalks, bridges, viaducts and sewers. Public Works is comprised of the following divisions: Engineering, Traffic, Motor Vehicle Parking, Street, Sewer, Oak Ridge Cemetery, Building and Zoning, Housing, Facility Maintenance, and Waste and Recycling. The department also administers the subdivision and annexation ordinances and traffic regulations.

Our Divisions

Engineering Division

The Engineering Division oversees the planning, design, construction and maintenance of the City’s infrastructure. Whether it is in-house maintenance or new construction, the department ensures that engineering and construction specifications are met. The contracts for street resurfacing, sidewalk repairs and sewer improvements are the responsibility of the Engineering Department. The department reviews proposals for the subdivision and annexation petitions. Land use planning efforts include attention to drainage, sewer and transportation needs.

Traffic Division

The Traffic Division promotes the safe and orderly flow of traffic, operates the municipal parking system and enforces parking rules and regulations. The department installs and maintains control devices including signs, pavement markings and signals. The department also is responsible for transportation plans, specifications for construction of traffic signal improvements and street closing petitions.

Motor Vehicle Parking Division

The Motor Vehicle Parking Division reviews parking utilization and monitors revenues. Parking meters are maintained and relocated as necessary to reflect changes in sidewalks, driveways and development activities. The division manages the parking enforcement staff for downtown district meters and enforcement of parking permits. The division provides current needs assessment for downtown parking as well as parking ramp management for all City-owned structures.

Facility Maintenance Division

The Facility Maintenance Division is responsible for routine janitorial and maintenance activities of the Municipal Center Complex and provides repair and preventative maintenance advice for the City.

Streets Division

The Streets Division (Public Works Garage) maintains streets, alleys and sidewalks. The division also maintains and operates a fleet of trucks and heavy equipment for use in construction and repair work. Specialty crews within the division work in diverse areas such as forestry, sidewalk repair, backfill and street patching. The entire division is responsible for safety of City streets during inclement weather as they clear and monitor over 656 lane miles of City streets.

Sewer Division

The Sewer Division maintains the City sewer system including sanitary, combined and storm sewers and all manholes, catch basin and inlets. Specialized television equipment and flow monitoring equipment allow the division to monitor the conditions of the sewer system in order to prevent costly problems through early detection.

Oak Ridge Cemetery

Oak Ridge Cemetery, home of the Lincoln Tomb, is a national historic site. The first and second most visited cemeteries in the nation are Arlington National Cemetery and Oak Ridge Cemetery, respectively. In addition to being the final resting place of our 16th president, the site is home to the Illinois Vietnam Memorial, the Korean War Memorial and the World War II Memorial.

Building Division

The Building Division administers and enforces building, mechanical, plumbing and electrical regulations and provides inspection services for each of the codes. The division also issues all building permits and conducts plan reviews of permit applications.

Zoning Division

The Zoning Division administers and enforces zoning regulations and provides inspection services for each of the codes. The division conducts investigations of all zoning complaints. The division schedules public hearings for the Planning and Zoning Commission, dockets all cases and serves as technical advisor to the commission. The division maintains the City’s official zoning map and provides such information to the public.

Housing Division

The Housing Division is responsible for enforcing the city environmental housing codes and addressing unsafe and dangerous structures. This division is responsible for ensuring that safe and clean neighborhoods are maintained throughout the city. The division is also responsible for overseeing the city demolition of court ordered removal of unsafe and dangerous structures.

Waste and Recycling Division

The Waste and Recycling Division is responsible for planning, monitoring, and implementing a number of programs and services for city residents. Programs that are supported by the waste and recycling fee fund are the branch and yard waste disposal service, hazardous waste collection, electronic waste collection, and the large item pick up program. This division is responsible for promoting recycling and monitoring waste collection for the City of Springfield and is the proud host of the annual Earth Awareness Fair.

City Commissions

Public Works administers work and serves as technical adviser through its Zoning Division for the Springfield Planning & Zoning Commission.

Public Works also liaisons with several City Commissions including the Bicycle Advisory Council and the Urban Forestry Commission

For information on applying to these commissions as well as information on all City Boards and Commissions visit The Boards and Commissions page.


Permits and Forms


  1. COMING SOON! New Online Plan & Permit Application Portal
  2. Submit and track all permits online for building, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, outdoor dining, parklets block parties and more!
PDF Forms
Building Permits
  1. Building Permit Application
  2. Registration Application for Vacant Buildings
  3. Typical Parking Layout
  4. Application for Electrical Permit
  5. Application for Mechanical Permit
  6. Application for Plumbing Permit
  7. Plumbing Modification Reimbursement Application Form
Right of Way Permits
  1. Overview: Conditions for Permitting Excavation within the Public Right-of-Way
  2. Application Permit for Public Right of Way
  3. Sketch: Open Cut Permit Document
General Forms
  1. Accessibility Ramp Notification
  2. Codes used by the City of Springfield
  3. Cross Section (for one and two family residences only)
  4. Deck Plan
  5. Demolation Notice - 04/14/25
  6. Inspection Tips: Commercial
  7. Inspection Tips: Residential
  8. Notice Regarding Detached Garages
  9. Notice Regarding Duplex and Condos
  10. Notice Regarding Patio Assembly Areas
  11. Notice Regarding Roofing Work
  12. Notice Regarding Signs in Easements
  13. Notice Regarding Swimming Pool Installations - 07/07/17
  14. Notice Regarding New Water Services for Existing Buildings
  15. Purchased Permit Applications - 09/15/21
  16. Requirements for Mobile and Modular Homes
  17. Requirements for Mobile Food Service Units
  18. Requirements for Tents to be placed for less than 180 days - 01/09/19
  19. Residential Notices (Energy, Fire Sprinkler Awareness, Radon Resistant Construction) - 08/06/19
  20. Scope of Work (required when drawings are not submitted)
  21. Site Plan
Electrical Contractors Exam & Registration
  1. Exam Cover Sheet
  2. Application for New Registrations
  3. Applications for Renewals
  4. Application for Springfield License
ICC Mechanical Tests & Licenses
  1. Exam Cover Sheet
  2. Application for Mechanical License
  3. Mechanical Contractors Registration
Outdoor Dining and Parklet Information
  1. Application for Outdoor Dining
  2. Downtown Springfield Parklet Guidelines
  3. Sample of Parklets
Neighborhood Block Parties
  1. Block Party Event Notification Application
  2. Block Party Guidelines Ordinance
  3. Code Section ARTICLE XXXVII - SPECIAL EVENTS
Gas Piping
  1. Solid Fuel/Vented Decorative Appliance Application
  2. Solid Fuel/Vented Device Examination Application
  3. Mobile Home & Gas Piping Examination Application

Bicycle Advisory Council (BAC)

Welcome!

Welcome to the City of Springfield’s Bicycle Advisory Council information page. Here you will find highlights about our volunteer efforts to make Springfield a more bike-friendly community. This page contains helpful information for you, your neighborhood, and workplace related to cycling in the City of Springfield. If you are as passionate about the topic as we are, you can also find our meeting schedule located at the bottom of the page. All meetings are open to the public. If you have questions about the Bicycle Advisory Council, please contact the City’s Office of Public Works at 217.789.2255.


Missions & Responsibilities
  1. Advise the Mayor and the Office of Public Works on bicycle issues
  2. Analyze routing operation and safety of utilizing bicycles for transportation purposes
  3. Evaluate and make recommendations for the development of a master plan for bicycling including on-street and off-street paths and lanes; signed shared roadways; bicycle racks; and signage and signalization.
  4. Develop education and public outreach programs on bicycle issues
  5. Work with the City to develop strategies that help make routes safer for children to bicycle to school and increase the number of children who choose to bicycle
  6. Assist the city in the development of bicycle infrastructure within the community
  7. Assist the city to coordinate routs and trails as appropriate through the Springfield Area Transportation Study (SATS) and other cooperative efforts

Upcoming Events
Earth Awareness Fair on April 26th, 2025

Visit the SBAC at the Earth Awareness Fair on Saturday April 26 to tell us what you would like to see done to make Springfield more bike friendly. Pick up a free Springfield bike map, stickers, and free safety lights. Review updates for long-range bike infrastructure plans and learn how to load a bike on an SMTD bus. The Earth Fair will be held from 11 a.m. To 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 26, in Union Square Park.


Earth Fair 2025


Past Events
Springfield's Earth Awareness Fair

In April of 2024, the Bike Advisory Council participated in the City of Springfield’s Earth Awareness Fair. Highlights from this year’s event included temporary bike lanes to make biking to the event more comfortable, and a bike valet station so riders could safely lock up their bikes and enjoy all that the Earth Awareness Fair had to offer. We filled the valet station and overall it was a terrific event. Check out some of the photos and we hope to see you at the next upcoming event!





Scheduled Board Meetings
Meeting Date Location Attachments
4/14/2025 at 4:30 PM 300 S. 7th St, Room 203
3/10/2025 at 4:30 PM 300 S. 7th St, Room 203
2/10/2025 at 4:30 PM 300 S. 7th St, Room 203
1/13/2025 at 4:30 PM 300 S. 7th St, Room 203
12/9/2024 at 4:30 PM 300 S. 7th St, Room 203
10/14/2024 at 4:30 PM 300 S. 7th St, Room 203
9/9/2024 at 4:30 PM 300 S. 7th St, Room 203
8/12/2024 at 4:30 PM 300 S. 7th St, Room 203
7/8/2024 at 4:30 PM 300 S. 7th St, Room 203
6/10/2024 at 4:30 PM 300 S. 7th St, Room 203
5/13/2024 at 4:30 PM 300 S 7th room 203
4/8/2024 at 4:30 PM 300 S. 7th St, Room 203
3/11/2024 at 4:30 PM 300 S. 7th St, Room 203
2/12/2024 at 4:30 PM 300 S. 7th St, Room 203
1/8/2024 at 4:30 PM 300 S. 7th St, Room 203
12/11/2023 at 4:30 PM 300 S 7th, Room 301
11/13/2023 at 4:30 PM 300 S 7th, Room 301
10/9/2023 at 4:30 PM
9/11/2023 at 4:30 PM 300 S 7th, Room 301
8/14/2023 at 4:30 PM 300 S 7th, Room 301
7/10/2023 at 4:30 PM 300 S. 7th, 3rd Flr, City Council Conference Room
6/12/2023 at 4:30 PM City Council Chambers 300 S 7th St., 3rd Flr
5/8/2023 at 4:30 PM 300 S. 7th St., 3rd Flr, Council Conference Room
4/10/2023 at 4:30 PM 300 S. 7th St., 3rd Flr, Council Conference Room
3/13/2023 at 4:30 PM 300 S. 7th, Room 305 Conference Room
2/13/2023 at 4:30 PM Cancelled due to City Observed Holiday
1/9/2023 at 4:30 PM 300 S. 7th, Room 305 Conference Room
12/12/2022 at 4:30 PM 300 S. 7th, Room 305 Conference Room
11/14/2022 at 4:30 PM 300 S. 7th, Room 305 Conference Rom
10/10/2022 at 4:30 PM 300 S. 7th, Room 305 Conference Room
9/12/2022 at 4:30 PM 300 S. 7th, Room 305 Conference Room
8/8/2022 at 4:30 PM 300 S. 7th, Room 305 Conference Room
7/11/2022 at 4:30 PM 300 S. 7th, Room 305 Conference Room
6/13/2022 at 4:30 PM 300 S. 7th, Room 305 Conference Room
5/9/2022 at 4:30 PM 300 S. 7th, Room 305 Conference Room
4/11/2022 at 4:30 PM 300 S. 7th, Room 305 Conference Room
3/14/2022 at 4:30 PM 300 S. 7th, Room 305 Conference Room
2/14/2022 at 4:30 PM 300 S. 7th, Room 305 Conference Room
1/10/2022 at 4:30 PM 300 S. 7th, Room 305 Conference Room
12/13/2021 at 4:30 PM 300 S. 7th, Room 305 Conference Room
11/8/2021 at 4:30 PM 300 S. 7th, Room 305 Conference Room
10/11/2021 at 4:30 PM 300 S. 7th, Room 305 Conference Room
9/13/2021 at 4:30 PM 300 S. 7th, Room 305 Conference Room
8/9/2021 at 4:30 PM Maldaners Restaurant
7/12/2021 at 4:30 PM 300 S. 7th, Room 210
6/14/2021 at 4:30 PM Via Zoom see Agenda
5/10/2021 at 4:30 PM Via Zoom see Agenda
4/12/2021 at 4:30 PM Via Zoom see Agenda
3/8/2021 at 4:30 PM Via Zoom see Agenda for Info
2/8/2021 at 4:30 PM Via Zoom see Agenda for Info.
1/11/2021 at 4:30 PM Via Zoom see Agenda for information
12/14/2020 at 4:30 PM Via Zoom see Agenda for information

FAQs

Sump Pump

Question | Can I outlet my sump pump to the street?

Answer

No, sump pump discharges are not allowed to be discharged onto the street, sidewalk or curb. This can create icing situations during freezing weather and be a danger to pedestrians and motorists. Residents discharging to the street are in violation of City Ordinance Section 51.02 (m) and may open themselves up to liability from pedestrians and motorists if an injury occurs as a result of the violation.

Question | Can I outlet my sump pump to my sanitary sewer lateral?

Answer

No, connecting a sump pump to your sanitary sewer lateral is termed a “cross connection”. This is prohibited by City Ordinance Section 51.02 (k). The sewer fees paid are based on metered water usage. Sump pump water is unmetered water being transported and treated by the treatment facility which has not been paid for. In addition, sump pump water being added to the sanitary sewer system contributes to high flow rates in the collection and treatment system and can cause Sanitary Sewer Overflows (SSO) and basement backups.

Question | Can I outlet my sump pump to the storm sewer system?

Often times this is the preferred solution. The Office of Public Works reviews these requests on an individual basis. In order to connect to the storm sewer system you will need approval by the Office of Public Works and if the storm sewer is located in the right of way, you may need a street opening permit to perform work.

Question | Where else can I discharge my sump pump?

Answer

The most common sump pump discharge location is within a rear yard drainage easement. The Final Plat for your subdivision will show the location of all drainage easements. See the FAQ on rear yard drainage easements for more information.

Question | What is a community sump drain?

Answer

Many newer subdivisions install underground pipes in the rear yard drainage easements for the purpose of connecting the sump pump drains. These pipes eventually drain to the storm sewer system. These community sump drains are not considered a public improvement and are not maintained by the City of Springfield. Maintenance of these community sump drains is the responsibility of either the individual homeowners or the homeowners association.

Question | Can I install a community sump drain?

Answer

Yes. Often times either individual lot owners or homeowners associations install underground pipes in the rear yard drainage easements to allow residents to connect sump pump drains. This is a private line installed and maintained by the homeowners.

Question | Are there other options for discharging sump pump water?

Answer

Yes, residents without rear yard easements or storm sewer pipes can manage sump pump effluent within their property. Often times this involves discharging the water within your property. The Office of Public Works recommends the discharge point be located in a non-paved area a minimum for 15 feet from the public right of way or half way between your home and the public right of way or neighboring properties.

Question | Are there any other suggestions to residents?

Answer

Yes, often time homeowners can adjust the level of the sump pump in the pit to reduce the amount of water that is pumped out of the ground from below your home. Homeowner’s should contact their plumber or sump pump installer to investigate if this is an option for reducing the amount of water being discharged while still adequately protecting the home.

Rear Yard Drainage

Question | What is a rear yard drainage easement?

Answer

Rear yard drainage easements are generally located along the common rear yard property lines of adjacent properties. Most often there is a specified width of easement on both sides of the common property line. This easement is in place to allow upstream properties (higher properties) the right to drain water through downstream properties (lower properties).

Question | There is water standing in my rear yard easement, what do I do?

Answer

Rear yard drainage in the responsibility of the individual property owners. The City of Springfield does not maintain rear yard drainage easements. The Office of Public Works may be able to supply copies of the original construction documents showing how the rear yard was originally intended to drain. It is the responsibility of the homeowners to maintain or restore the rear yards to function as originally intended.

Question | My neighbor filled in the rear yard drainage easement on his property, what do I do?

Answer

Talk to your neighbor, many times people are unaware they have blocked the flow of drainage. Rear yard drainage issues are most often governed by homeowners associations. Most covenants speak to situations concerning the alteration of drainage in the subdivision. The Office of Public Works approves the original design of the rear yard drainage easement. Alterations to the approved design may need to be approved by the Office of Public Works if the alteration affects public infrastructure.

Question | Can I fill in the ditch behind my house??

Answer

It is not recommended, and may require approval from your homeowners association and/or affected adjacent properties. The rear yard drainage easement, typically located between properties, is usually the low point which will fill with storm runoff once the capacity of the storm sewer in that area is reached. By filling in this low area, there is potential for higher water levels to be forced onto adjacent properties which did not exist before filling in the easement. By altering the drainage patterns from the original design, owners may open themselves up to liability for damages to adjacent properties.


Planning and Zoning Meetings

Meetings are held at 5:30 p.m. on the third Wednesday of each month in City Council Chambers Third Floor, Municipal Center West unless notice is given otherwise.

For questions about the upcoming meeting, please call 217.789.2171.

You can find the meeting agendas below.


Road Improvement Projects

Bruns Lane

Residents were invited to attend a public open house on October 5, 2022, to learn more about proposed changes to Bruns Lane from Jefferson Street to North Grand Avenue. The exhibits that were presented that evening are now available below. Please scroll through each link since there are multiple pages for each phase. After viewing the proposed improvements, you may submit your comments and feedback to feedback@springfield.il.us. Comments will be accepted through Friday, October 14 at 5:00 p.m

This fall (2022), the City of Springfield’s Office of Public Works is performing an asphalt overlay on Bruns Lane from Jefferson Street to North Grand Avenue. In 2023, Public Works will complete an asphalt overlay from North Grand Avenue to Veterans Parkway.

The existing typical section is a four (4) lane section, with two lanes in each direction - north and south. In order to improve safety, the City is planning on performing a road diet as part of the improvements. The proposed road diet converts a road to a three (3) lane segment consisting of two (2) through lanes, a center, bidirectional turn lane, and bike lanes.

The type of accidents, as well as the overall Average Daily Traffic County (ADT) are similar to that of the Walnut Street Safety Improvements Project from South Grand Avenue to Capitol Avenue, therefore it should have a similar effect on Bruns Lane. The ADT is based on the traffic count located on the Illinois Department of Transportation website.

Road diets are a low cost solution resulting in traffic calming effects as well as inviting bicycle and pedestrian accommodations along the corridor.

The following are the proposed improvements for Bruns Lane. Please review and share your comments via email to feedback@springfield.il.us. Questions? Please contact the Office of Public Works at 217.789.2255.



Koke Mill Road

The City of Springfield held a public informational meeting concerning the proposed improvements along Koke Mill Road from Washington Street to Old Jacksonville Road. The following information was shared at the open house on April 4, 2022.

Residents may share their comments about the proposed improvements to feedback@springfield.il.us Questions? Contact Nate Bottom, Director of Public Works at 217.789.2255 or Kristin Timmons with Crawford, Murphy & Tilly at 217.787.8050.




Hedley Road

The City of Springfield is in the preliminary engineering phase of a study regarding the improvements to Hedley Road from Koke Mill Road to W. White Oaks Drive. The design phase of this project is scheduled to begin in 2022.

On August 2, 2021, the City of Springfield held an Open House for residents to review the information, ask questions, and provide their comments on the project. Feedback for this phase was accepted thru August 16, 2021.

As the project progresses, this webpage will be updated with announcements and information. If you have questions or other comments about the design phase of Hedley Road, please email: feedback@springfield.il.us.




MacArthur Boulevard

On August 11, 2021, the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) hosted a public information Open House for the Phase I preliminary engineering and environmental study to improve MacArthur Boulevard from Wabash/Stanford Avenue to South Grand. The purpose of the meeting was to introduce the project to the community, present a Project Purpose and Need Statement, review the existing conditions along the corridor, outline the anticipated project schedule, and gather public input.

IDOT has created a website dedicated to the project. To submit your written comments along with viewing updates from IDOT about MacArthur Boulevard, please visit their website, https://www.macarthurblvdspringfield.org/. Additional information about the project can be found below.


Project Documentation

Lawrence Avenue

The City of Springfield held a public informational meeting regarding the proposed safety improvements for Lawrence Avenue including the intersections for MacArthur Boulevard and Walnut Street, on August 24, 2022, at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 533 S. Walnut Street. This is the second meeting for this safety project where modified section designs will be shared with the community. The first hearing took place on December 6, 2021.

For those who were unable to attend the open house, information is available below. Comments may be submitted via email to feedback@springfield.il.us or via U.S. Mail to the Office of Public Works, Attn: T.J. Heavisides, 300 S. 7th Street, 2nd Floor, Springfield, IL 62701. All comments must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 7, 2022.


Public Input for Historic Property - De Minimis Impact

Archer Elevator & Franklin's Ground Squirrel
About Franklin's Ground Squirrel

The Franklin’s ground squirrel (Spermophilus franklinii) is a state-threatened species protected by the Illinois Endangered Species Act that lives along the Sangamon Valley Trail. This colony is the largest concentration of Franklin’s ground squirrels known to exist in the state.

The City of Springfield will be implementing measures along Archer Elevator Road, from Wabash Avenue to Greenbriar Drive, to conserve and protect the ground squirrels before, during and after construction. But to ensure the squirrel’s continued survival in Springfield, we need your help! Download our information packet here.


Why Care?

The populations of Franklin’s ground squirrel have dwindled approaching levels of concern. Sangamon County, the Springfield Park District, Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Friends of the Sangamon Valley, and the University of Illinois Springfield have done conservation work along the Sangamon Valley Trail and Centennial Park. To support their investment and limit the impact to the ground squirrel as a result of the project, the City will carry out various mitigation and conservation measures.

Franklin’s ground squirrels disperse the seeds of many plant species, and as a prey animal they have an impact on predator populations, including the red-tailed hawk, red fox, badger, coyote, striped skunk, and long-tailed weasel. It is remarkable that the Franklin’s ground squirrel has been able to survive in a rapidly developing part of Springfield. Let’s help our special neighbors!


How You Can Help

How can you help conserve the Franklin’s ground squirrel in Southwest Springfield? Here are a few helpful tips.

  • Look out and slow down - When you are commuting along Archer Elevator Road, be sure to keep an eye out for Franklin’s ground squirrels. Adhering to the posted speed limit will decrease the likelihood of collision with ground squirrels (and other wildlife) and will in turn increase the ground squirrel’s chance of survival. These ground squirrels are most active during bright sunny days.
  • Spread the word - Educate your family, friends and neighbors about the presence of our state-threatened Franklin’s ground squirrel in southwest Springfield and how they can help protect the species.
  • Provide Support – Support local habitat conservation projects by the Springfield Park District.


Martin Luther King Junior Drive Safety Improvement Project

The City of Springfield is proposing to make improvements to Martin Luther King Jr Dr. between South Grand Avenue and up to the existing intersection of Clear Lake Avenue. The project includes lane reconfigurations to reduce four existing traffic lanes to a proposed three traffic lanes and two bike lanes. The project includes improvements to the intersection of South Grand Ave including signal upgrades. Signal upgrades will also be made at Cook Street. The project will resurface the roadway from South Grand Ave to Adams St. and restripe the roadway up to Clear Lake Ave. The improvements will include resident and business commercial entrance consolidations for safety and ADA sidewalk improvement at intersections.



Carpenter Street at the Intersections with 5th and 6th Streets

Residents were invited to attend a public open house on March 7th, 2024, to learn more about safety improvement project on Carpenter Street at the intersections with 5th and 6th Streets. The exhibits that were presented that evening are now available below.

As the project progresses, this webpage will be updated with announcements and information. If you have questions or other comments about updates to Carpenter Street Improvements 5th Street and 6th Street Intersections, please email: feedback@springfield.il.us.



Sewer Division

The City of Springfield, Office of Public Works, Sewer Division operates and maintains the sanitary sewer collection system within the City of Springfield. The collection system consists of approximately 140 miles of Combined Sewers and 355 miles of Separate Sanitary Sewers. Flows from the collection system are transported to wastewater treatment facilities operated and maintained by the Springfield Metro Sanitary District.


Northeast Area Pilot Sewer Investigation

This program provides financial assistance to eligible public or private applicants for the design and construction of a wide variety of projects that protect or improve the quality of Illinois’ water resources. The IEPA assist applicants with projects that address human health and failing water infrastructure. Eligible projects include new drinking water or wastewater infrastructure construction; upgrading or rehabilitating existing infrastructure; storm water-related projects that benefit water quality; and a variety of other projects that protect or improve the quality of Illinois’s rivers, streams, and lakes. The IEPA historical list of borrowers includes the state’s largest city, as well as, many small communities and water districts with populations less than 1,000 people.”

Current Project(s):

Sanitary Sewer Emergency

IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING A SANITARY SEWER PROBLEM CONTACT THE CITY FIRST BEFORE CALLING A PLUMBER OR PLUMBING SERVICE.

Monday - Friday 7 am - 3 pm: 217.789.2244
All Other Times: 217.789.2246

Report that you are experiencing a sanitary sewer emergency. Back up sewer lines, line breaks, sewage odors and overflowing manholes are considered an emergency.

A sewer maintenance crew will be dispatched to investigate the cause of the sewer problem. If the cause of the problem is determined to be within the private lateral and not within the City sewer main, you will be instructed to contact a plumber or sewer cleaning service. The City does not have the ability to clean private lateral lines.

Public Notification

The City of Springfield is required through the USEPA Administrative Order to post information concerning Sanitary Sewer Overflows (SSO's). SSO's are defined as when sewage leaves the sanitary sewer system due to a problem or failure of the city owned sewer main. Basement backups caused by problems in private laterals are not considered SSO's. Residents in affected areas are cautioned to avoid contact with untreated sewage.


Overflow Reports for this Year



2025
2024
2023
2022
2021
2020
2019
2018
2017
2016


City of Springfield MS4 Permit



As part of the City of Springfield’s MS4 Permit, several best management practices include public outreach and education. To promote the City’s efforts in maintaining compliance with the requirements of the NPDES permit, the EPA has recommended utilizing the City’s web content to post the Notice of Intent, Storm Water Management Plan, and Annual MS4 Reports. A PDF link to each items is include within this section. In addition to the recommended content, also included is a link to Illinois EPA’s website which lists all Notice of Intent applications for Construction Activities with regards to Storm Water Permitting.

Annual MS4 Reports

Annual Reports

Annual Reports


Contractor Pre-Qualification

The City of Springfield has implemented a prequalification procedure for contractors to bid on sewer work. We ask that all prospective bidders complete the required information.

Pre-qualification Documents

These documents should be completed and returned to:


City of Springfield
Office of Public Works
Room 203 Municipal Center West
300 South Seventh Street
Springfield, IL 62701
Attention: Sewer Engineer


In order for bids to be opened on any sewer project, the contractor must have approved pre-qualification status with the Office of Public Works. Pre-qualification status must be updated on an annual basis. These documents are confidential and will be kept as such. Subsequent to approval of the pre-qualification documents by the Office of Public Works, you will be notified of your eligibility to do work with the City, along with a renewal date for pre-qualification.

If you have any questions regarding the pre-qualification procedure, please feel free to call our office at 217.789.2260.

City of Springfield Sanitary Sewer Reimbursement Programs

The City of Springfield currently offers a reimbursement to residents who wish to retrofit the plumbing in their houses to reduce the possibility of basement backups. The current program provides for a reimbursement of 75% or up to $3500 of the cost to modify the plumbing. This typically involves installing a sewage ejection pit in the basement to pump sewer flows from the basement level up to about three feet below the ground level outside of the house. More details concerning this program can be found in the program packet below.

Overhead Sewer Program Packet - 07/31/23



This document describes the Service Sewer Reimbursement Program of structural breaks within the City right of way managed by the Office of Public Works in accordance with the Springfield, Illinois, Code of Ordinances >> TITLE V: - PUBLIC WORKS >> CHAPTER 51. – SEWERS >> ARTICLE III. SEWER SERVICE CONNECTION Section 51.23

Service Sewer Reimbursement Program Packet - 11/18/2024


Snow Removal

City of Springfield Snow & Ice Removal

The Office of Public Works monitors over 600 miles of roads throughout Springfield focusing on primary roads, followed by secondary roads and trouble spots. Side streets in neighborhoods and subdivisions are tended to as weather and time permits. Primary streets are defined as main thoroughfares that connect the different quadrants of the city. Secondary streets are thoroughly traveled but serve as main routes to the primary streets.

The following information outlines the snow and ice removal procedure for the City of Springfield.




Snow Removal Inspection Progress    

Several areas may be plowed by contractors and those trucks with trucks and equipment that are not equipped with AVL tracking units. As such, those area may not be reflected on the map. Areas that may have plowing done by a contractor include: Ash Grove; Buckley Estates; Cider Mill; Constitution Plaza; Deerfield; Fallingbrook West; Forest Green; Grant's Ridge; Harrison Park; International Pkwy; Irisdale; Koke Mill East; Koke Mill West; Kreston Place; Lake Forest; Mill Creek; Monroe Park West; Oak Park; Olde Bradfordton Place; Palisades; Panther Creek; Parkway Pointe; Piper Glen; Plateau Drive; Rising Moon Bunker Hill; Salem Estates; Savannah Point; Spring Crest Pine Creek; The Bluffs; The Reserve; Timberlane; Wabash West Business Park; West Road Park.




Streets and Sidewalks

There are many factors that go into assessing the needs and upgrades for City infrastructure. Public Works staff conducts objective condition ratings of all the streets and alleys in the City every two years. Sidewalk programs are assembled based on objective investigation and evaluation of resident requests (called in and emailed), compiled in Cityworks – the City’s project management system - throughout the year, as well as targeted areas from the City’s Pedestrian Accommodation Plan. Recommendations made to public officials are based upon these inspections and condition assessments.

Below is the plan for the City of Springfield’s Fiscal Year 2023 infrastructure improvements which is March 1, 2022 – February 28, 2023. These plans are staggered over the fiscal year and are dependent on weather and resources. If you have questions about this year’s program, please contact Public Works at 217.789.2255 or email public.works@springfield.il.us.



Adopt A Street

The Adopt-A-Street program recognizes the commitment of volunteers to keep our City’s roadways free from litter and debris. Individuals, community groups, business owners, schools, churches, and service clubs are invited to participate.



Urban Forestry Commission

Mission & Responsibilities

WELCOME!

Welcome to the City of Springfield Urban Forestry Commission's (UFC) website. At the Commission, we love trees and hope you do too. Trees provide many benefits to individuals and communities, including cleaning air, contributing to our health, adding value to homes, reducing neighborhood temperatures, reducing storm water run-off, saving energy, and improving business. Each dollar invested in tree planting returns four to five dollars to the community. These are some of the reasons Springfield plants several hundred trees a year. Unfortunately, the City has to remove several hundred dying and dead trees a year. Providing input to the City on issues relating to trees is the Urban Forestry Commission's primary mission.

Visit this site to learn more about our activities, participate in educational offerings, and get answers to your tree-related questions. We would love to hear from you.

2022-2023 UFC Commission
Jan Von Qualen, Chair

  1. amendments to the Springfield tree ordinance, Arboricultural Specifications Manual, and the urban forestry plan;
  2. policy concerning selections, planting, maintenance, and removal of trees, shrubs, and other plants on city-owned property;
  3. allocation of funds, grants or gifts to the City of Springfield intended for use by the city arborist, and all expenditures of said funds by the city arborist;
  4. establishment or presentation of educational and/or informational horticultural programs for the City of Springfield;
  5. development of policies regarding the arborist's duties;
  6. issuance of permits or licenses required by the City Code in accordance with the Code or procedures, Rules, or regulations approved by the Commission; and
  7. development of procedures, rules, or regulations pursuant to City Code.

Greening up Harvard Park Elementary School: Urban Forestry Commission Shares Trees with the School

balloons

 

 

Dr. Hayes, Harvard Park Elementary School Principal, has a green vision for his school grounds and students. He has the idea that trees’ shade facilitate outdoor activities that reduce stress in young people, which in turn, according to research, may improve school performance. What principal could argue with that? So Principal Hayes reached out to the Springfield Urban Forestry Commission, and the Chair Jan Von Qualen and member Susan Allen visited the school to determine how it could be ‘greened’ up at no school expense. Within a month, Susan brought the school four trees donated by Springfield Audubon Society (who got them from Sangamon County tree lover Kevin Veara). More greening up to come, and the sky’s the limit for Harvard Park Elementary school students. Are there other principals in Springfield interested in the free green school improvement program?

  Tree Inventory 2022

The City of Springfield is pleased to announce the work done towards completion of a grant from the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service through the direction of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. This work includes updating the City tree ordinance, inventory the trees on City property, and develop a new urban forest management plan. These efforts ensure the proper management and protection of the city’s urban forest, a green asset worth several millions of dollars, as determined by Great Lakes Urban Forestry Management Company, the company completing the tree inventory.

The tree inventory of a portion of the northeast quadrant has been completed. Click here to view the Partial Tree Inventory report done by the UFC. The Tree Protection Ordinance was passed by the Springfield City Council on July 5, 2022.

NEW! View the online Tree Inventory here.

  UFC Announcements

2023 Tree Planting Grant

The City of Springfield together with the UFC announced it was awarded a U.S. Forest Service/Illinois Department of Natural Resources tree planting grant in the amount of $25,000. These funds will be matched by the City of Springfield and fund approximately 130 new trees. The trees will be planted in the northeast quadrant of the City over the next two years. This is the same area where the 2022 Tree Inventory took place.

City of Springfield Receives National Recognition

The City received national recognition in the Arbor Day Foundation’s publication Arbor Day (March/April 2023), for its work in supporting the urban forest. The newsletter reports that Springfield has a thriving urban forest, received Tree City USA status, and won six growth awards from the Arbor Day Foundation. The publication quotes Mike Brunk, urban forestry administrator for the Illinois Department of Natural Resources as saying the City’s standout accomplishments over the years include the creation of an Urban Forestry Commission, winning grant funding for tree inventory work, recycling of all leaf and wood debris from municipal tree care, and a net gain in trees planted over trees removed. These accomplishments are the result of the efforts of the Mayor, City Council, the Public Works Department, and Urban Forestry Commission.

plant a tree

 

 

 

May 2022 Tree Planting by UFC

The Urban Forestry Commission and volunteers got together May 1, 2022, to plant trees in the Harvard Park area of Springfield. Each Sunday in May, except for Mother’s Day, tree planting continued around town, thanks to the UFC. In April and continuing in May, the UFC is gave away trees across the City to add to the urban forestry canopy and to beautify Springfield. If you need assistance planting a tree, contact UFC chair, at janvonq@gmail.com.

April’s 2022 Virtual Discussion

On April 7, the UFC hosted a virtual discussion on Oak Tree Research and the Advantage of Native Plants. Amy McEuen, Association Professor and Chair of the UIS Biology Department and Lucia Vazquez, Professor of Biology and UIS Associate Vice Chancellor of Research and Innovation, led the discussion. This recording of this discussion is available online.

Springfield Named Tree City USA®

The Arbor Day Foundation announced that Springfield, Illinois was named a 2020 Tree City USA in honor of its commitment to effective urban forest management. The city also received a Tree City, USA Growth Award for demonstrating environmental improvement and higher level of tree care.

Springfield achieved Tree City USA recognition by meeting the program's four requirements: a tree board or department, a tree-care ordinance, an annual community forestry budget of at least $2 per capita, and an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.

The Tree City USA program is sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service, and the National Association of State Foresters.

2022 Tree Inventory

The City of Springfield, in partnership with the UFC, was awarded a $20,000 grant through the Morton Arboretum to conduct a Tree Inventory. The inventory began in January 2022 in the northeast quadrant of the city and done by the Great Lakes Urban Forestry Management. The inventory focused in the area bounded by Camp Sangamon Road on the north; Walnut Street on the west; South Grand Avenue on the south and the City limits, east of I-55, on the east. Trees on City-owned property and right-of-ways were inventoried and completed around the end of January.

Ask an Expert

Q. What are the best trees to plant in Springfield?

A. That's a good question and the best answer is, it depends on the location. Some nice small trees that would do well in Springfield are: Red Bud, Japanese Maple, and Autumn Brilliance Service Berry. Some recommendations for medium sized trees are: Magnolia, American Hornbeam, and Ironwood. Larger tree recommendations are: Bur Oak, Silver Linden, and Horse Chestnut. Remember that diversity of trees planted is wise, so that disease or insect predators, such as Dutch Elm Disease or the emerald ash borer, don't decimate tree populations across the city.


General Trash

Effective July 1, 2016, waste haulers in the City of Springfield are limited to charging customers no more than $15 per month for one container of refuse of at least 35 gallons during weekly garbage pickup and no more than $18 per month for two containers of refuse (or one container of 75 gallons or greater), for weekly pickup service. No external fees or charges (e.g., bin, fuel, environmental, administrative, etc.) can be applied to refuse collection service.

Waste haulers have also agreed to assist the city in alerting the Office of Public Works when they sight fly dumping on their daily routes. They are required to collect all garbage at their customer’s site and may charge an additional fee if it is in excess of the customer’s weekly pickup service. If you have any questions and/or issues regarding your trash service, please call your waste hauler first and then the Office of Public Works if you still have questions and/or issues.


Branch Pickup

2025 Branch Pick-up
Branch drop off is free for Springfield residents all year long.

From April 7 to May 3, Springfield residents can drop off yard wast bags for FREE at Evans Recycling. Evans Recycling is located at 2100 J. David Jones Parkway and is open Monday-Friday, 7:00 am–5:00 pm and Saturday, 7:00 am–12-noon. Evans Recycling’s contact number is 217.370.3780. Smaller branches may also be broken up and placed in yard waste bags or containers as part of the City's bi-weekly yard waste pick-up.

For questions, contact Evans Recycling at 217.370.3780 or the Springfield Public Works Department at 217.789.2255 or public.works@springfield.il.us.


2025 Pick-up Schedule

The Department of Public Works announces the 2025 dates for the Branch Pickup Program and Christmas Tree Pickup. This program, conducted in quadrants, takes place four times a year. Please note that this program is separate from the bi-weekly Leaf Pickup Program, which is contracted to Lake Area.

In January, Christmas trees and branches will be collected during the same week. After January, the next collection will occur in April. Residents are reminded to have branches curbside during their scheduled week for collection.

January 6 Northwest - The area north of South Grand Avenue and Old Jacksonville Road. West of Walnut Street/J David Jones Parkway.
January 13 Southwest - The area south of South Grand Avenue and Old Jacksonville Road. West of Walnut Street.
January 20 Southeast - The area south of South Grand Avenue and east of Walnut Street, including the properties around Lake Springfield.
January 27 Northeast - The area north of South Grand Avenue and east of Walnut/J. David Jones Parkway.

April 7 Northwest - The area north of South Grand Avenue and Old Jacksonville Road. West of Walnut Street/J David Jones Parkway.
April 14 Southwest - The area south of South Grand Avenue and Old Jacksonville Road. West of Walnut Street.
April 21 Southeast - The area south of South Grand Avenue and east of Walnut Street, including the properties around Lake Springfield.
April 28 Northeast - The area north of South Grand Avenue and east of Walnut/J. David Jones Parkway.

July 7 Northwest - The area north of South Grand Avenue and Old Jacksonville Road. West of Walnut Street/J David Jones Parkway.
July 14 Southwest - The area south of South Grand Avenue and Old Jacksonville Road. West of Walnut Street.
July 21 Southeast - The area south of South Grand Avenue and east of Walnut Street, including the properties around Lake Springfield.
July 28 Northeast - The area north of South Grand Avenue and east of Walnut/J. David Jones Parkway.

October 6 Northwest - The area north of South Grand Avenue and Old Jacksonville Road. West of Walnut Street/J David Jones Parkway.
October 13 Southwest - The area south of South Grand Avenue and Old Jacksonville Road. West of Walnut Street.
October 20 Southeast - The area south of South Grand Avenue and east of Walnut Street, including the properties around Lake Springfield.
October 27 Northeast - The area north of South Grand Avenue and east of Walnut/J. David Jones Parkway.


Be Mindful Where You Place Branches Curbside

The City’s Public Works crews utilize a grappling truck to collect a large quantity of branches at one time. Consequently, any structures around or underneath the pile may be damaged during collection. The City asks all residents to look out for and avoid placement of branches and/or yard waste on any of the following locations. This will help maintain the structural integrity and safety of our crews. Avoid placing branches and yard waste on:

  • Manholes
  • Handholes
  • Junction Boxes
  • Meter Pits
  • Standpipes
  • Sprinkler heads
  • Inlets
  • Drains
  • Poles/Posts
  • Guy Wires
  • General Equipment or Structures
  • Sidewalks
  • Bike Lanes
  • Boulevards

Resident Instructions

The City of Springfield will pick-up branch piles from residents:

  • No larger than 3 feet in height, 4 feet in depth, and 10 feet in length;
  • Piles larger than a small pick-up load will not be picked up by the city;
  • The program is for branches only, no firewood or precut logs will be accepted;
  • Branches/limbs trimmed by a commercial contractor will NOT be picked up;
  • Branches must be placed on the curb not obstructing the street or sidewalk;
  • Branches must be placed curbside by 7:00 a.m. on Monday of the area’s pick-up week;
  • Small branches may be broken up and put into yard waste bags for bi-weekly curbside pick-up; and
  • Branches are NOT allowed on center boulevards.


Residential Drop Off

As a reminder, branch drop off is free to City residents, with ID, all year long. This service is for City residents only and not for commercial contractors. Evans Recycling is located at 2100 J. David Jones Parkway and is open Monday-Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and Saturday, 7:00 a.m. – 12-noon. Evans Recycling’s contact number is 217.370.3780.


Branch Piles are NOT Considered Yard Waste

As a reminder, the city's branch pick-up is a DIFFERENT program from the city’s bi-weekly yard waste pick up program that is now until the end of March 2024. The branch pick-up program now takes place four times a year.

For questions about the City of Springfield yard waste and branch pickup, please call the Office of Public Works at 217.789.2255 or email public.works@springfield.il.us.


Branch Map

Household Hazardous Waste

Next event is scheduled for October 11th at Chamberlain Park. Signups will begin in August.


Other Household Hazardous Waste Collection Events

Individuals wanting to properly dispose of their household hazardous waste sooner are encouraged to check the IEPA website. There you will find a listing of other events around the area that are open to all residents.


Explanation of Household Hazardous Waste
Spring Residential Household Hazardous Waste Collection

Household Hazardous Wastes are materials and chemicals that are toxic, flammable, corrosive, reactive, or explosive. They typically cannot be safely recycled or disposed of without a special center or collection event. These wastes can be a serious threat to water supplies and our local environment if they are improperly discarded with nonhazardous trash (put into a municipal solid waste landfill), dumped down the drain, or illegally dumped elsewhere. The City of Springfield’s Office of Public Works holds an annual hazardous waste drop off in accordance with EPA guidelines and regulations. Over the past couple years, the City has partnered with the IEPA to host a co-sponsored collection open to ALL Illinois residents. This program is for residents only and does not include businesses, organizations, or institutions.

Household Hazardous Waste - What it is and Alternatives

How to Dispose of Latex Acrylic Paint
Here are some helpful links when disposing of Latex Acrylic Paint:

Voucher-Only Household Hazardous Waste Collection

Resident Requirements & Event Details

The City of Springfield in partnership with the IEPA is hosting a VOUCHER ONLY Household Hazardous Waste Collection on at Chamberlin Park. The program is offered to ALL Illinois residents. Residents who are participating in the drop off MUST have a voucher in-hand or available on the their mobile device in order to dispose of their materials. Vouchers will be required at time of drop off.

How to obtain a voucher:

  • Participants must be a resident of the State of Illinois
  • Residents must fill out the form below or contact the Office of Public Works by calling 217.789.2255.
  • Residents must include the online form or provide at the time of calling:
    • Full name
    • Contact phone number
    • Email Address
    • City of residence
    • Type of items that will be dropped off

Upon registering residents will be given the option to email or print their voucher

  • Email – voucher will be sent to email provided for mobile device download.
  • Print – allows resident to print at home or work.

On the day of the drop off, if you arrive early, miss your time slot, or misplace your voucher, you will be sent to the overflow traffic lane and will have to wait for the next available time slot.

Registration will close on

Restrictions:

  • Program is not open to businesses, institutions and not-for-profit organizations
  • Vouchers are limited to one per residence. Vouchers may not be combined for delivery.
  • Vouchers are valid for time slot listed only.

Drop off location:

  • Collection will take place at Chamberlin Park. Enter on Adams Street, and follow the direction of the traffic wardens and designated signs. Stay in your lane. Exit through Mc Creery Ave.

Safety Requirements:

  • ALL participants must stay in their vehicles at all times as soon as they enter the park and until they leave the park.
  • At the collection point, designated staff will unload HHW items from the resident’s vehicle. It is suggested that items be placed in the trunk of vehicle or bed of truck for easier access and removal.
  • If an items label cannot be read, please relabel and/or place in new container and label.
  • Please make sure to put your items in a container you are willing to part with. We cannot ensure that containers will be returned.


UNACCEPTABLE Items at the collection
Residents are advised to check for updates to the acceptable/unacceptable items lists periodically by visiting this website.

DO NOT BRING LATEX PAINT         
Latex/Acrylic Paint is not hazardous and can safely be dried or absorbed and discarded with regular trash.
Agricultural Wastes Alkaline Batteries
Biohazard Waste Business/commercial sector wastes
Controlled substances Electronics
Explosives/ammunition Farm machinery oil
Fire Extinguishers Fireworks/gun powder
Institutional wastes Non-lead acid, car, or lawn mower batteries
Potentially infectious medical wastes Propane tanks
Radium paint Sharps and needles
Smoke detectors Tires
ACCEPTABLE Items at the collection
Residents are advised to check for updates to the acceptable/unacceptable items lists periodically by visiting this website.
Acids/Corrosives Aerosol paints
Antifreeze/coolant Cleaning products
Drain cleaners Fertilizers
Fluorescent tubes/compact fluorescent bulbs (CFL) Fuel additives/cleaners
Hobby chemicals Insecticides/pesticides/herbicides
Lawn chemicals Lithium, Nicad, and Sealed Lead Acid Batteries
Mercury thermostats & thermometers Oil based paints (No Latex)
Old & outdated medications/pharmaceuticals Old gasoline
Paint thinners/strippers Pool chemicals
Solvents Used motor oil
Residents who have questions regarding the program or any items listed or not listed may contact the Office of Public Works at 217.789.2255 or email to public.works@springfield.il.us.





Large Item Pickup

Springfield residents living within the city's corporate limits are eligible to participate in the city's free large item pick up collection. Habitat for Humanity is now accepting residential scheduled drop offs in addition to curbside pickup. To schedule a drop off or pick up, Springfield residents can call Habitat for Humanity at 217.523.2710. For collection only, residents can also schedule online by clicking here.

Whether registering for the program online or over the phone, residents will be asked what item(s) they have and, in return, will be given a collection date. All participants of the program requesting pick up are asked to place items curbside and to not place items curbside until 24 hours before their scheduled pick up.

All eligible city residents qualify for free scheduled residential curbside pick up of up to six (6) items per calendar year. Pick up can be divided into two (2) transactions of three (3) items per scheduled pick up or one (1) scheduled pick up of up to six (6) items."

PLEASE NOTE, IF YOU DO NOT PAY THE $4.50 WASTE AND RECYCLING FEE, THIS PROGRAM DOES NOT APPLY TO YOU.

Large Item Pick Up Program Item Checklist

Eligible items for pickup include:

Couches Chairs
Tables Appliances (e.g., refrigerators, stoves, washers, drivers, freezers, and/or dishwashers)
Water heaters Window unit-AC
Mattresses Box Springs
Doors Shelving Units
Filing cabinets 5X10 rolls of carpet
Dressers Desks
Bed frames Grills
Mowers Toilets
Cabinets TV & Stereo Consoles
Basketball hoops Trampolines that have been broken down
Pool liners, poles, ladders, etc. that have been broken down  

Restricted Items:

Automobile parts Central AC units, Portable heaters, Furnaces
Constructions debris (e.g., paint, lumber, dry wall, brick, concrete, siding, etc.) Hazardous materials
Hot tubs Landscaping items (e.g., large rocks, statuary, etc.)
Musical Instruments (e.g., pianos) Railroad ties
Tires TV monitors/electronics

Other options for getting rid of oversized items:

  • Sangamon Valley Landfill, 2565 Sandhill Rd., 528-9256. Accepts large amounts of solid waste, including remodeling and demolition debris as well as large items. Call for specific items, cost details and hours.
  • F & W Resources, 3327 Terminal Ave., 525-1206. Metal salvager. Call for specific items, cost details and hours.
  • Waste Management of Illinois' transfer station, 3000 E. Ash St. - Accepts large amounts of solid waste, including remodeling and demolition debris as well as large items. Also accepts large appliances without Freon and/or cooling units. Call for specific items, cost details and hours.
  • Mervis Iron, 1100 S. Ninth St. - Accepts and recycles large metal appliances without cooling units free of cost. A fee is charged for each unit that needs Freon removed. Call for specific items, cost details and hours.
  • If you have questions regarding items not listed please refer to the Room-to-Room Guide and/or call the Office of Public Works 217.789.2255

Where to take restricted items:

  • Metal Recycling
    • Automotive parts
      • Cannot go to Landfill
      • Check with salvage yards for recycling and selling
    • Central A/C, portable heaters, furnaces
      • Cannot go to Landfill due to Freon
      • Take all items to Metal Salvage yard
  • Construction Debris - Habitat for Humanity Re-Store takes a lot of building/remodeling materials; however, call before drop off donation. If unwanted, contact landfill and/or waste hauler for final disposal.
  • Hazardous materials should be taken to annual Household Hazardous Waste event.
  • Hot tubs (accepted at landfill for drop-off)
  • Landscaping items
    • Gumballs, plants, plaster and concrete can be taken at Landfill
    • Big trees, leaves, branches, grass clipping, other wood materials cannot go to Landfill but taken at Evan’s Recycling
  • Musical Instruments – check with donating to second hand, organizations (e.g., churches, schools, etc.). Contact landfill and/or waste hauler for final disposal.
  • Railroad ties
    • Federal property
    • Soaked in creosote (landfill can take a couple but if truckload must get approval before coming in)
    • Call Landfill prior to taking for approval
    • # to call for complete breakdown - Northfolk Southern Police 1.800.453.2530
  • Tires - take back programs at Tire retail locations (average cost = $2-$5/per tire – depending on size)
  • TV Monitors/Electronics - drop off city program (can currently take to BLH and/or F&W Resources)

Leaf Pickup / Yard Waste

2025 PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Note: ALL YARD WASTE MUST BE PLACED CURBSIDE BY 6AM THE MONDAY OF YOUR PICKUP WEEK. Placing yard waste in the right place enhances the safety of our roadways and can alleviate flooding. Please help keep inlets near your property clear. Inlets can easily get clogged with leaves and other debris and cause street flooding. Grass clippings blown into the streets can also be hazardous to motorcycles and other vehicles.

Sweeping or blowing leaves or grass clippings into the street is a City violation and doing so could result in a fine.

The Spring Season free drop-off dates at Evans Recycling are Monday April 7th to Saturday May 3rd.

The City of Springfield is offering bi-weekly CURBSIDE yard waste/leaf pickup to residents within the corporate limits of Springfield. The City is divided into two zones – South and North – and each neighborhood will receive one pickup every other week, throughout the year.

Please Note: Properties located west of Veterans Parkway/north of Iles are now part of the NORTH Zone.

  • South Zone – area south of South Grand Avenue and Old Jacksonville Road, including residential areas around the lake.
  • North Zone – area north of South Grand Avenue and Old Jacksonville Road, including properties west of Veterans Parkway/north of Iles Avenue.

The updated schedule can be found below. You can also download the 2025 calendar year pickup schedule by clicking here.

Residents may use brown paper yard waste bags or hard plastic containers for their yard waste. If using hard plastic containers, please make sure the containers are clearly marked with “YW” or "Yard Waste". Stickers are NOT required for this program. The weight of your bag or container can be no more than 50 lbs.

The City’s vendor for this program is Lake Area Disposal. If you believe your bags/containers were missed, email springfieldyw@lakeareadisposal.com.

If you have questions about the program, please contact the City’s Office of Public Works at 217.789.2255.


Upcoming Pickup Schedule

A map showing the status of pickups in each Zone is located at the bottom of this page. Yard waste must be placed curbside by 6:00 a.m. on the Monday of your pickup week.

Those located in the western portion of the zone will be picked up in the beginning half of the week while those located in the eastern part of their zone will be picked up in the later part of the week.

Calendar Year 2025 Dates for Yard Waste 2025 Pickup Weeks, Based on a Monday Start.

North Weeks:
March 24
April 7, April 21
May 5, May 19
June 2, June 16, June 30
July 14, July 28
August 11, August 25
September 8, September 22
October 6, October 20
November 3, November 17
December 1, December 15, December 29

South Weeks:
March 31
April 14, April 28
May 12, May 26
June 9, June 23
July 7, July 21
August 4, August 18
September 1, September 15, September 29
October 13, October 27
November 10, November 24
December 8, December 22


Be Mindful Where You Place Yard Waste Curbside

The City’s Public Works is reminding residents to please watch where you place your yard waste bags, containers and branches. Any structures around or underneath these items may be damaged during collection. To help maintain the structural integrity of items and for the safety of our crews, please avoid placing yard waste and branches on:

  • Manholes
  • Handholes
  • Junction Boxes
  • Meter Pits
  • Standpipes
  • Sprinkler heads
  • Inlets
  • Drains
  • Poles/Posts
  • Guy Wires
  • General Equipment or Structures
  • Sidewalks
  • Bike Lanes
  • Boulevards

Contact

If you feel your house or neighborhood was missed during your pick up week, or have questions about the pickup schedule, please email springfieldyw@lakeareadisposal.com.

All other inquiries, please contact Public Works at 217.789.2255 or public.works@springfield.il.us


Program Details

Yard waste is composed of grass clippings, leaves, weeds, plant trimmings, small amounts of loose soil/dirt, and/or small twigs and branches.

No plastic bags can be used and yard waste must be free of contamination including food, rocks, large branches, flower pots/trays, animal droppings and street waste. It is the responsibility of residents to keep their yard waste free of contaminants. If contaminants are found, yard waste will not be collected.

Metal cans and overweight containers or bags will not be picked up.

Crews will place a sticker on any bag or container that does not meet the criteria and residents will be asked to re-bag their leaves.

Other details about the program:

  • All bags in compliance will be picked up and there is no need to call to schedule the service.
  • Do not remove the bagged leaves from the curb once you place them there.
  • Bags should be placed at the end of driveways or on parkways between the sidewalk and street.
  • Yard Waste bags will NOT be picked up in the alley and must be placed curbside.
  • Leaves should be placed in paper yard waste bags—not grocery sacks or boxes.
  • Do not use any type of tape on the bag to seal it shut as the tape is not recyclable.
  • Plastic bags are not accepted.
  • Yard waste stickers do not need to be placed on the bags during this collection period.
  • Residents should be advised that sweeping leaves into the street is a city violation and doing so could result in a fine.

Reminder

The City of Springfield yard waste/leaf pick-up is DIFFERENT from the City’s branch pick-up program. Branch pick-up takes place 4 times each calendar year and follows a preset schedule. For more information on the City’s branch pick-up program, click here. As a reminder, smaller branches and twigs may be broken up and placed in yard waste bags or containers for bi-weekly curbside pick-up.


Yard Waste / Leaf Pickup Map

Recycling

Electronic Recycling

The Office of Public Works offers an electronic recycling drop off program for all City residents. BLH Computers is the electronic drop off provider and is located at 1832 Adlai Stevenson Drive. Regular recycling hours are Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. and Saturday, 10:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Electronic items in the “unlimited” category below are accepted with no restriction on quantity and may be dropped off to BLH Computers.

PLEASE NOTE, IF YOU DO NOT PAY THE $4.50 WASTE AND RECYCLING FEE, THIS PROGRAM DOES NOT APPLY TO YOU.

UNLIMITED - Residency verification not required:

Desktop, Laptop, and Tablet Computers Printers (Large office not accepted)
Computer Peripherals (keyboard, mice, etc.) DVD Players
Satellite & Cable Equipment Projectors
VCRs Video Game Consoles
Radios Speakers
Cellular & Mobile Phones Smart Phones
Telephones (including PBX equipment) Toner & Ink Cartridges
Network Equipment & Cables Mailroom Equipment
Point of Sale Equipment Pagers
Cameras Camcorders
Power Tools (including batteries) Fax Machines
Answering Machines Battery Backups and Uninterruptable Power Supplies (UPS)
Surge Suppressors & Power Strips Power & Accessory Cables
Walkie-talkies Christmas Tree Lights

The “limited” category is new this year and was created so residents now have the ability to drop off televisions and/or CRT (tube) monitors at no cost. These drop offs are restricted to only three (3) types of these items per calendar year, per residence, with residency verification. A resident who brings in more than the allotted three items in the “limited” category will be charged the regular fee, with in-store coupon incentive, as set and required by BLH Computers.

Since this service is free only to residents within the corporate limits of Springfield, a Voucher is required and will be done at BLH at the time of drop-off. The Voucher is created with proof of residency that must be provided to BLH staff (driver’s license or photo ID). Questions about the Voucher program? Please call the Office of Public Works at 217.789.2255 or BLH at 217.585.1580.

LIMITED - Residency verification required and limited to 3 items per calendar year:

CRT Televisions Projection Televisions
CRT Monitors Non-LCD/Plasma Televisions or Monitors
Consoles LCD Televisions
LCD Monitors

If an item is not listed, please call BLH Computers at 217.585.1580 to see if it can be accepted.

Room-to-Room Booklet (2024)

Springfield’s “Room-to-Room Guide to Household Reuse and Recycling” provides guidance on how to get rid of unwanted household items. This handy booklet lists more than 150 different items/materials and where to donate them in the Springfield area so they will be reused or recycled and not landfilled. From eye glasses to wire hangers, office machines to tools, you will be amazed at the number and type of items organizations and businesses in and around the City of Springfield will gladly accept. Can’t find what you are looking for? Call the Office of Public Works: Waste & Recycling at 217.789.2255.

Click here to view the guide online.


Other Resources

The following list are other outside resources to help residents safely dispose of their unwanted items.

DISCLAIMER: These sites listed are for informational purposes only. The City of Springfield does not endorse any of these entities nor their services. If you’d like to suggest other resources for our Waste & Recycling Guide, please contact Kristina LoRusso at Kristina.LoRusso@springfield.il.us.


Why are my Recyclables being left behind?

While the City’s waste haulers are obligated to take everything in and around garbage bins that are properly bagged, curbside recycling is a different program that uses two different recycling techniques and has contamination requirements. The Office of Public Works has created a document to help residents understand why certain recyclables may be left behind. Click here.



Curbside Recycling

Curbside recycling is available at no additional cost for city residents living in single family homes of 3 units or less that pay for garbage can pick-up. On site recycling for multi-unit buildings of 3 units or more, requires agreement between property owner and waste hauler.

Preparation Guidelines: Items that contained food should be rinsed out but thorough cleaning is unnecessary. All lids should be kept on containers; labels may remain. Some haulers will take mixed materials with no sorting needed - others require some sorting and separation of materials. Call your waste hauler for details on their requirements.

Pickup Location: all garbage and recycling is picked up curbside unless owner’s property has alley access. In the case of alley access, garbage and recycling receptacles should be placed and picked up in the alley.

Items Accepted:

  • Paper - newspapers, junk mail, magazines, and chip board (single-ply cardboard used for cereal, tissue, magazines, and soda boxes).
  • Plastic - all plastic containers labeled #1-7, except #6.
  • Metal - food cans & aluminum beverage cans
  • Glass - all colors of glass are recyclable. Only bottles and jars that food or drink came in are acceptable. No glass window panes, dishware, or ceramics.
  • Cardboard - some haulers only accept limited amounts of cardboard for curbside or alley pickup. For large quantities, check with your hauler or take to waste haulers drop off recycling facility.
Any questions please contact the Office of Public Works 217.789.2255

Drop Off Recycling Facilities

Springfield residents may drop off recycling items at their waste haulers designated location with proof of identification. Drop off locations are for customers of the waste haulers operating each facility, and residents are encouraged to contact their waste haulers directly should they have any questions regarding this service

Residents who live in multi-unit buildings may also take advantage of their waste haulers drop off location.

Following is the listing of the area waste haulers drop off recycling facilities.

Lake Area Disposal Service
2742 S. 6th Street
Monday through Friday
8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Phone: 217.522.9271
Email: comments@lakeareadisposal.com

Republic Services
Sangamon Valley Landfill
2565 Sandhill Road
Monday through Friday
7:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Phone: 217.528.9256
Email: lpainter@republicservices.com


Quick Recycling Reference for Common Items
  • Batteries: Can be taken to several electric retailers and/or recyclers, including Rexx Battery at 2945 E. Clear Lake Ave. 217.789.6049  (accepts most batteries except alkalines), BLH Computers, Inc. at 1832 Stevenson Dr. 217.585.7580 (accepts most batteries except alkalines), Springfield Battery Co. at 2645 E. Cook St. 217.523.7031 (accepts large batteries such as car, truck, marine vehicle and lead batteries). Alkaline batteries are no longer banned from Illinois landfills and can be disposed in regular trash. Call local business for details.
  • Carpet and Padding: Can be taken to Staff Carpet at 304 W. Browning Rd. 217.528.4879. If you have not purchased new carpet from Staff, the cost is $50.00. If you have purchased new carpet from Staff, recycling is free. Call for details.
  • Compact Fluorescent Lights (CFL): Can be taken to Springfield Electric at 700 N. 9th St. 217.788.2100, US Electric at 301 North 1st St. 217.522.3347, as well as Lowe's and Menards Locations. Call local business for details.
  • Dehumidifier: Can be taken to Habitat for Humanity at 2744 S. 6th St. 217.523.2710 & Springfield Iron & Metal at 930 N. Wolfe St. 217.544.7131. Call local business for details.
  • Fire Extinguisher: Release pressure in fire extinguisher and let sit for a few days prior to throwing away in regular trash. If unsure on chemical makeup of fire extinguisher, take to AEC Fire Safety & Security at 3003 Stanton St. 217.529.3003- they will look over and access.
  • Gasoline: Safely store old gasoline until next City Household Hazardous Waste collection event or call Office of Public Works 217.789.2255.
  • Holiday Lights: Can be taken to BLH Computers, Inc. at 1832 Stevenson Dr. 217.585.7580 all year round. Call for details.
  • Humidifier: Can be taken to BLH Computers, Inc. at 1832 Stevenson Dr. 217.585.7580 or Habitat for Humanity at 2744 S. 6th St. 217.523.2710. Call local business for details.
  • Latex Paint: Residents can legally and safely put latex paint in the trash once it has been completely dried out. It is important to solidify latex paint to avoid environmental or water contamination problems. Most effective means of drying latex paint is to pour it out in thin layers on a disposable material, such as old newspapers or cardboard. Allow each layer to dry then dispose of in regular trash.
  • Medication: Can be taken to the pharmacy at Walgreens at 2020 S. MacArthur Blvd. 217.744.1880 (accepts all prescription and non-prescription drugs) as well as County Market pharmacy located at 1903 W. Monroe St. 217.546.8671 or 3001 S. Veterans Pkwy. 217.793.3773. Call local business for details.
  • Microwaves: Can be taken to Ley Metals Recycling, Inc. at 3000 N. Peoria Rd. 217.523.7676 or F&W Resources at 3327 Terminal Ave. 217.525.1206. Call local business for details.
  • Propane Tanks & Bottles: All bottles or tanks must be emptied prior to disposal. Small green 16-20 oz. camping bottles can be thrown away in regular trash. Another option is to remove the top valve and take to Mervis Recycling located at 1100 S. 9th St. 217.753.1492. If bottle or tank is larger than 20 oz., contact the Illinois Propane Gas Association for drop off referrals 217.525.8000
  • Tires: Can be taken to various service stations, including Johnson & Johnson Auto Service Center at 1325 Stevenson Dr. 217.529.9200 and Midtown Tire and Auto Service at 2110 Clear Lake Ave. 217.525.1395. Each store charges between $2 and $5 to get rid of one standard-sized tire. Call local business for details.
  • Smoke Detector: Smoke detectors older than 1990 have small traces of radiation and other harmful chemicals. To dispose, contact the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) at 2200 S. Dirksen Pkwy. 800.782.7860. For smoke detectors after 1990, dispose in regular waste stream.
  • Used Motor Oil: Can be taken to various service stations, including all Auto Zone locations in Springfield as well as Johnson & Johnson Auto Service Center at 1325 Adlai Stevenson Dr. 217.529.9200. Each location has limits and charges. Call local business for details.

If you have a question about recycling item not listed above, please contact the Office of Public Works at 217.789.2255 or email public.works@springfield.il.us.


Reuse Options
Freecycle

Is a free service matching up people who need to get rid of an item/s with those who are in need of an item/s. Anyone with access to a computer can visit the Freecycle website at https://www.freecycle.org/ and search Springfield, IL to find items listed near you. Every item listed must be free, legal, and appropriate for all ages.


Violation Information

Administrative Court

The Springfield Code Hearing Department (the “Department”) was created on June 15, 1997, by City ordinance. The Department holds administrative hearings on matters involving alleged violations of the Springfield Municipal Code. Previously, all ordinance violations were heard in the Sangamon County Circuit Court. Now, most matters involving ordinance violations relating to real property are heard by the Department’s administrative hearing officer.

Download a copy of the Code Hearing pamphlet

Question | CASES HEARD BEFORE THE CODE HEARING DEPARTMENT

Answer

The Department conducts hearings on a wide variety of ordinance violations. The most common matters coming before the Department involve violations of the City Building, Zoning, Fire Safety, Housing, and Environmental Health Codes.

Question | HOW A CASE GETS TO THE DEPARTMENT.

Answer

The Department does not initiate or file a case. Cases are referred to the Department by the various city departments or agencies responsible for protecting the public health, safety and welfare. A city inspector may write a citation or file a case in the course of his/her duties or in response to a citizen’s or community group’s complaint about an alleged violation of a local ordinance.

Question | WHAT IS AN ADMINISTRATIVE HEARING?

Answer

An administrative hearing is similar to a mini civil trial. By law, there are no juries in administrative hearings. Hearings before the Department are held before an administrative hearing officer and are open to the public. The person or entity bringing the case is called the plaintiff, and the person or entity against whom the case is brought is called the defendant. The City is usually the plaintiff in cases before the Department.

Both sides have an opportunity to present their cases by sworn testimony and/or exhibits, with all live testimony given under oath and recorded by a court reporter. Since administrative hearings are civil rather than criminal in nature, the burden of proof required is “by a preponderance of the evidence,” and not “beyond a reasonable doubt.” “By a preponderance of the evidence” means that it is more likely than not that an ordinance violation has occurred. If a violation is found to have occurred, the hearing officer may impose a fine or other penalty, including correction of the violation. Jail time cannot be given. The hearing officer will put his/her final decision in writing, called the “Findings, Decision and Order.” Either party may appeal a final order to the Sangamon County Circuit Court.

Question | WHAT DO I DO IF I RECEIVE A NOTICE OF VIOLATION?

Answer

If you receive a notice of violation, and that document orders you to appear at a hearing before the hearing officer, you or your representative must show up at the location, date and time specified on the summons.

Your right to an opportunity to be heard.

You have the right to: (a) represent yourself; (b) hire an attorney to represent you at your own expense; and/or (c) have an authorized person represent you. Your authorized representative may be a friend, family member or employee. Please note that there are no public defenders in civil matters such as administrative hearings. Also remember that there is no right to a jury in administrative hearings.

You have the right or the opportunity to be heard; that is, to tell the hearing officer your side of the story. You may tell your side of the story by yourself, with witnesses, and/or with physical evidence such as receipts or photos. Your presentation of your side of the case must, however, deal specifically with the violation before the court. You must also bring any witnesses and other evidence with you on the date of your hearing.

What if I cannot attend the hearing?

If you cannot attend the hearing, you or your representative must arrange for a continuance (a re-scheduling) of the hearing. To get a continuance, you must have a valid reason. The fact that you may be scheduled to work or are unprepared on the hearing date are not valid reasons for a continuance. A written request for a continuance can be filed with the City Clerk. Whether or not you are given a continuance is up to the hearing officer. By ordinance, continuances may not be granted for more than 25 days from the first hearing date.

What if I do not appear at the hearing?

If you do not appear at the hearing, the hearing officer will hold the hearing without you, and a fine or other penalties may be entered against you. This is called a default judgment. Arriving late for a hearing may be treated as not appearing at all.

What if I missed the hearing due to an illness or an emergency?

If you missed the hearing due to an illness or emergency, the hearing was probably held without you. You may, however, have an opportunity to set aside, or vacate (cancel), a decision against you if you file a motion to set aside the default judgment with the clerk of the Department within 21 days. If your motion is allowed, you will be expected to proceed with an immediate hearing. After the 21st day you may not be able to set aside or vacate the decision. You may also appeal a decision against you to the Circuit Court of Sangamon County.

Question | WHAT HAPPENS IN THE HEARING ROOM?

Answer

Where do I go?

Administrative hearings for the City of Springfield are held in the City Council Chambers, Third Floor, Municipal Center West (300 South 7th Street). You summons should tell you the date and time to appear. If this information is missing, please contact the Department at 217.789.2375 and ask for help.

What do I do in the hearing room?

When you get to the hearing room, please sign in and have a seat. Please remain silent until your case is called. Food and drink are not allowed in the Council Chambers. Proper conduct must be maintained at all times. People disrupting the proceedings will be removed from the room and may risk having their cases heard without them.

Negotiating settlement of your case.

Although not obligated to do so, the municipal prosecutor may offer you an opportunity to settle your case prior to a hearing. Settlement negotiations may offer you a chance to negotiate a lower fine or dismissal. Whether or not you want to discuss your case is entirely your decision. These negotiations are not conducted by the hearing officer or by the Department, and are completely independent and separate from your hearing. You are not obligated to discuss your case and are also not obligated to accept any offer of settlement from the City.

When the hearing officer enters the room.

When the hearing officer enters the room, he or she may give a few opening remarks. The hearing officer will then start to call the cases, usually in the following order: cases where the defendant has an attorney, cases where the defendant does not have an attorney, and cases where the defendant has not appeared. Please note that cases where the defendant has an attorney are not being given preferential treatment, but are called first because the attorneys, as officers of the court, may be required to appear before judges in Sangamon County Circuit Court.

Question | WHAT HAPPENS WHEN MY CASE IS CALLED?

Answer

When your case is called, you should answer “here” or “present” and step up to the podium in front of the hearing officer. In a case where you are listed as the defendant, before you are even required to tell your side of the story, the hearing officer will hear the City’s case to see if the City has met its initial burden of proof to proceed against you..

The City’s case (the Notice of Violation).

The City has the initial burden of proof in all cases where you are listed as the defendant. This means that the City must present evidence that a violation occurred. The City has to do this either by live testimony or by sworn documents (i.e., a signed ticket or signed inspection report). The City’s case will be presented by the municipal prosecutor. In certain circumstances, the Notice of Violation alone may be sufficient for the City to present its case. If the hearing officer determines that the City has not presented sufficient evidence, you may be found “not liable” (you win), and the case will be dismissed. If the hearing officer determines that the City has presented sufficient evidence, you will have the opportunity to explain or rebut the City’s evidence (i.e., to tell your side of the story).

The Defendant’s case.

This is your opportunity to tell the hearing officer your side of the story. You, your witness, and/or your evidence may show the hearing officer why the information on the City’s violation notice is wrong or that the City has cited the wrong person. If you have witnesses or evidence to substantiate or prove your case, you must have present it at the hearing.

Questions by the hearing officer.

The hearing officer may ask questions of the parties and their witnesses in order to clarify the evidence.

The hearing officer’s decision.

After both sides are provided an opportunity to be heard, the hearing officer will render a decision. The hearing officer’s decision will be based on a preponderance of the evidence; that means whether it is more likely than not that an ordinance violation occurred or did not occur. The decision will be in the form of a written order. If the hearing officer finds that a violation has occurred, he or she may impose fines or other penalties as the ordinance provides. Whether or not a hearing is held, you will be provided with a copy of the hearing officer’s order and any other notices or documents relevant to that day’s proceedings.


Earth Awareness Fair 2025

2025 City of Springfield Earth Awareness Fair
April 26, 2025 11am-3pm
Union Square Park 500 E. Madison St.


2025 List of Participants

  • Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
  • Animal Protective League
  • BLH Computers
  • Citizen’s Climate Lobby
  • City of Springfield - Bicycle Advisory Committee
  • City of Springfield - Planning and Economic Development
  • City of Springfield – Public Works
  • City of Springfield - Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau
  • Crawford, Murphy & Tilly
  • Creative Reuse Marketplace
  • CWLP
  • Downtown Springfield Inc.
  • Enos Park Neighborhood Gardens
  • Habitat for Humanity
  • Illinois Environmental Protection Agency
  • Kidzeum
  • Lincoln Land Community College
  • Lincoln Library
  • Mayor’s Monarch Pledge
  • Motherland Community Garden
  • Republic Services
  • Sangamon County Regional Planning Board
  • Sierra Club Sangamon Valley Group
  • SIU School of Medicine
  • SMTD
  • Springfield Area Arts Council
  • Springfield Bicycle Club
  • Sustainable Springfield
  • The Demystified Herbalist
  • University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners
  • UIS Green Fee Committee
  • Westminster Presbyterian Church

2025 Activities & Services

  • ASL Interpreting Service
  • E-Waste Recycling Program with BLH Computers
  • Free seeds from Enos Park Community Garden
  • Games with Illinois EPA
  • Large Item Pickup Program with Habitat for Humanity
  • Nature Tourism with Springfield Convention and Visitor’s Bureau
  • Regenerative Agriculture with Motherland Community Gardens
  • Vermicomposting with U of I extension Master Gardeners
  • Water Conservation with Westminster Presbyterian Church

Sangamon Mass Transit District - SMTD

Sangamon Mass Transit District, SMTD, has four different bus route that have a stop within 3 blocks of Union Square Park!

  • The Route 1 bus stops at 5th St and Jefferson
  • The Route 4 bus stops at 6th St and Washington
  • The Route 7 bus stops at 4th St and Jefferson
  • The Route 12 bus stops at 4th St and Madison

Please see the map below for more details, or go to www.smtd.org .



Planning & Zoning Commission

Meetings are held at 5:30 p.m. on the third Wednesday of each month in City Council Chambers Third Floor, Municipal Center West unless notice is given otherwise.

For questions about the upcoming meeting, please call 217.789.2171.

You can find the meeting agendas below.

Upcoming Meeting Agendas
Details Wednesday, April 16, 2025
Details Wednesday, March 19, 2025
Details Monday, March 10, 2025 (Historic Sites Commission)
Details Wednesday, February 19, 2025
Details Monday, February 10, 2025 (Historic Sites Commission)
Details Wednesday, January 15, 2025

Zoning Cases Before The City
Details 2025-021 Election of Officers
Details 2025-020 38 Island View Lane
Details 2025-019 Tract 1: South of and Adjacent to 3520 Old Jacksonville Road (PIN: Part of 21-01.0-126-004), & Tract 2: 1301 Pine Creek Drive
Details 2025-018 4550 HPR Drive, a/k/a 4525 West Wabash Avenue, tenant space, Suite "A
Details 2025-017 3041 Taylor Avenue
Details 2025-016 528 S. 5th Street (2025-016-HIST)
Details 2025-015 232 W. Edwards Street & 606 S. College Street (Conditional Permitted Uses – Final at Planning and Zoning Commission; Variance –Final at City Council)
Details 2025-014 3353 Atlanta Street
Details 2025-013 3105 Great Northern Drive
Details 2025-012 Tenant Spaces 1937 & 1941 West Iles Avenue
Details 2025-011 849 N. 9th Street
Details 2025-010 2937 West White Oaks Drive (Fence Final)
Details 2025-009 2600 West Lake Shore Drive
Details 2025-008 203 N. Glenwood Avenue
Details 2025-007 2401 W. Wabash Avenue, Suite A
Details 2025-006 3267 Ginger Creek Drive
Details 2025-005 Docket 2025-005-HIST Parcel 1: 427 S. 12th Street, Parcel 2: 1123 E. Jackson Street, Parcel 3:1131 E. Jackson Street, Parcel 4: 1118 E. Jackson Street, Parcel 5: 1120 E. Jackson Street, Parcel 6: 1124 E. Jackson Street, Parcel 7: 1128 E. Jackson Street Docket 2025-005-HIST
Details 2025-005 Docket 2025-005 Parcel 1: 427 S. 12th Street, Parcel 2: 1123 E. Jackson Street, Parcel 3:1131 E. Jackson Street, Parcel 4: 1118 E. Jackson Street, Parcel 5: 1120 E. Jackson Street, Parcel 6: 1124 E. Jackson Street, Parcel 7: 1128 E. Jackson Street
Details 2025-004 3245 Mathers Road
Details 2025-003 600 Toronto Road
Details 2025-002 2220 Whitefield Road
Details 2025-001 2168 s 9th Street