Common Codes and Policies

Animals

It is unlawful to permit any dog or cat to run at large in the City. Dogs that are not leashed shall be deemed to be running at large. Owners are responsible for the removal of any waste from such animals in public streets, sidewalks, alleys or any other public places. Dogs must be licensed with McHenry County Public Health Department. Dog licenses may be obtained by veterinarians at the time the rabies vaccination is given. The City of Harvard has adopted the State Statute pertaining to Vicious Dogs.

Dogs that are leashed and licensed shall be allowed within City park property provided that the person walking or exercising the dog shall be responsible for any damage done to the landscaping of any park and for the removal of any waste from said animals.

Burning

The open burning of leaves or any other materials or substances is prohibited within the city limits, other than the preparation of food on a temporary or permanent fireplace grill.

Curfew

Except as provided in Section 26.02-C herein, it is unlawful for any person less than 17 years of age to be present at, in or upon any public assembly, building, place, street or highway at the following times:

• Between 12:01 a.m. and 6 a.m. Saturday;
• Between 12:01 a.m. and 6 a.m. Sunday; and
• Between 11 p.m. on Sunday to Thursday, inclusive, and 6 a.m. on the following day.

For more information regarding exclusions to the curfew please contact City Hall.

Downtown Parking

Two hour parking unless posted. No parking from 2:00 a.m. to 5:00 a.m. in the downtown area.

Overnight Parking

Parking is prohibited on all City streets between the hours of 2:00 and 5:00 a.m.

Garbage/Refuse

The City of Harvard has contracted with a private disposal firm to collect garbage in residential areas inside the city limits. Recycled glass, paper and aluminum are also collected on your regular garbage day. Call MDC for more information (888) 775-3691. 

Grass Mowing

Grass and weeds are to be mowed and kept under five inches tall. Clippings are not to be blown into the streets. Cleanup will be required.

Hunting License

A hunting license is required by state statute and can be obtained at any sporting goods store. Contact the Illinois Department of Conservation for specific regulations and season limitation.

Inoperable Vehicle or Junk Car

It is unlawful for anyone in the city to keep, store, maintain or otherwise retain, on either public or private property and in public view, any inoperable or unlicensed motor vehicle or partially dismantled vehicle or junk car. Cars will be towed.

Leaf Collection

The City has contracted with a private disposal service for the curbside collection of leaves in the fall in residential areas inside the city limits. Leaves are to be raked to the curb (not in the street). The schedule for leaf pickup varies from year-to-year depending on weather conditions.

Peddlers & Solicitors

It is unlawful for any person to engage in business as a peddler or solicitor in a residential area of the City without first having obtained a license pursuant to City regulations. Contact City Hall.

Maintenance of Trees in Right of Way

The DPW is responsible for the maintenance, trimming, and removal of all trees located within the street right of way. To request trimming or removal of a tree within the right of way, please contact the DPW. Trees will only be trimmed if they are deemed to be a hazard.

Residents may be permitted to trim or remove trees within the street right of way subject to approval. Contact the Community Development Dept. at 815 943-6468 to obtain a no-charge permit.

Vehicle Stickers

Vehicle Stickers are not required in the City of Harvard.