2026 Community Calendar LEARN MORE AT
DESPLAINESIL.GOV
HOLIDAYS AND CITY SERVICES Help turn ‘green’ into more than a holiday hue RECYCLE YOUR HOLIDAY LIGHTS
HOLIDAY REFUSE PICK-UP CHANGES
The Des Plaines Public Works and Engineering Department is hosting a free holiday light recycling event throughout the months of January and February. Lights that will be accepted include C7 and C9 lights, rope lights, mini-lights (icicle lights), LED lights, and extension cords. Bring items between the hours of 8 a.m. and 3 p.m., Wednesdays, to the Public Works facility at 1111 Joseph J. Schwab (Campground) Rd. Any holiday light strands still connected to wreaths, garland or other material cannot be accepted. The holiday lights will be recycled for the copper and plastic materials. There is no limit to the amount of holiday lights that you may drop off.
In 2026, basic refuse pick up will be delayed by one day during the weeks of the following holidays:
RECYCLE YOUR HOLIDAY TREE Public Works and Engineering is collecting holiday trees throughout the City, weather permitting, starting Monday, January 5, 2026, through Friday, January 9, 2026. Bare holiday trees (no decorations, lights, tinsel or plastic bags) should be left at the curbside before 7 a.m. on January 5. If you miss this opportunity and you’re an LRS customer, they will pick up trees through Friday, January 16, 2026, weather permitting. After this time, any bare holiday trees will need to be disposed of in April when landscape waste pick up begins. Trees frozen to the ground cannot be picked up.
• New Year’s Day, Thursday, January 1 • Memorial Day, Monday, May 25 • Labor Day, Monday, September 7 • Thanksgiving, Thursday, November 26 • Christmas Day, Friday, December 25
HOLIDAY OBSERVANCES In 2026, City Hall offices will be closed for business on the following days: • New Year’s Day, Thursday, January 1 • Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Monday, January 19 • Presidents’ Day, Monday, February 16 • Memorial Day, Monday, May 25 • Independence Day (observed), Friday, July 3 • Labor Day, Monday, September 7 • Columbus Day, Monday, October 12 • Veterans Day, Wednesday, November 11 • Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 26 • Day after Thanksgiving Day, Friday, November 27 • Christmas Day, Friday, December 25
Contact information for our Elected Officials and Municipal Offices can be found on the inside back cover of this calendar.
DECEMBER 2025
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Council Meeting 7 p.m. Public Works Holiday Tree Collection This Week (Weather Permitting)
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Last Day for Refuse Service Holiday Tree Pick-Up
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Martin Luther King Jr. Day City Offices Closed
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WINTER WEATHER INFORMATION SNOW MADE SIMPLE: WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT REMOVAL & PARKING
WHOSE ROAD IS IT?
To help avoid that dreaded “second shovel” that often happens as snowplows work to clear roads for safe passage, be sure to clear an area “upstream” from your driveway. This gives the snow on the plow a place to go other than your driveway and will reduce the amount of snow accumulating in the driveway apron after the snowplow’s final clean up.
Several government agencies construct, maintain and repair roads in Des Plaines, and you can identify which agency is responsible by the color and wording of the street sign posted on that road.
Here are some other things you need to know: • Place snow on parkways, leaving the street free for plow trucks. • For snowfall over two inches, vehicles must be parked away from snow routes until snow removal operations are completed. • The City prioritizes winter response operations based on several factors, including emergency response requirements, volume of traffic, and other criteria. The Public Works Department uses the following categories to prioritize snow removal on City roadways: 1. Emergency Response/Public Facilities (City Hall, Police and Fire facilities) 2. Primary Routes (collector roads, school roads and bus routes) 3. Secondary Routes (local roads not considered as primary routes) 4. City-Owned Public Parking Facilities, Cul-de-sacs, Alleys and Courts that do not serve as residential or commercial collectors/arterials The goal of the Public Works and Engineering Department is to make public ways accessible for vehicles and pedestrians by clearing snow and ice, and we are responsible for clearing approximately 140 lane miles of roadways. Please help us help you!
The City’s Department of Public Works and Engineering maintains all public streets, which are marked with green signs featuring white letters and the Des Plaines logo.
Des Plaines maintained road
The State of Illinois maintains designated state routes, identified by white signs with black letters and the word “Illinois.” For questions or concerns, contact IDOT at 800.452.4368. Cook County is responsible for Dempster/Thacker Street (west of Wolf Road), East River Road, Mount Prospect Road and Potter Road (north of Ballard Road). These roads are marked by blue signs with yellow “Cook County” lettering. To report an issue, call their 24-hour line at 312.603.1600 or email HWY.supt@cookcountyil. gov. The Village of Mount Prospect maintains Central Road west of Wolf Road. For assistance, contact the Village Public Works Department at 847.870.5640. To contact or report utility problems and outages, the following utilities provide services in Des Plaines:
State Highway under the authority of the Illinois Dept. of Transportation maintains road
• Astound Cable 800.427.8686 • AT&T 800.288.2020 • Comcast/Xfinity Cable 800.934.6489 • Commonwealth Edison 800.334.7661 • LRS 844.NEED.LRS (844.633.3577) • Northern Illinois Gas (NICOR) 888.642.6748
Cook County maintained road
JANUARY 2026
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Presidents’ Day City Offices Closed Council Meeting 7 p.m. Refuse Collection Will Follow Its Normal Schedule
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HOUSEHOLD WASTE DISPOSAL Below is a list of some of the most common household items that require special disposal treatment.
REFUSE ITEMS ACCEPTED BY LRS BULK ITEMS One ‘bulk’ item may be placed out for collection each week at no additional cost. ‘Bulk’ items are defined as items too large to fit into your waste cart, and 50 pounds in weight or less. For safety reasons, LRS prefers that all mattresses are wrapped in plastic or placed in a mattress bag. ‘Bulk’ items do not include ‘white’ goods (appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, etc.), electronic waste, certain types of construction debris (concrete, stone, masonry, etc.), dirt, tree stumps and engines, among other items. For additional ‘bulk’ collection outside of the weekly limit of one item, please contact LRS to schedule service. Items will be charged on a per-yard basis.
SPRING SHRED EVENT Des Plaines residents are invited to the Spring Shred Event on Saturday, March 28, from 8:30–11:30 a.m. at the Public Works Facility on 1111 Joseph J. Schwab (Campground) Rd. This free, environmentally friendly event offers a secure way to dispose of sensitive documents while helping reduce landfill waste. This event is open to Des Plaines residents only. For full guidelines and details, visit desplainesil.gov/sustainability
WHITE GOODS ‘White’ goods are generally defined as appliances like refrigerators, washers, dryers and ovens, but include other items as well. LRS will collect these items, but they must be scheduled for collection. Call 844.NEED.LRS (844.633.3577) to schedule.
DO-IT-YOURSELF CONSTRUCTION DEBRIS Up to one cubic yard of construction debris may be placed out for collection each week. Construction debris is defined as basic material that is consistent with household projects, renovations and clean-outs.
REFUSE ITEMS ACCEPTED BY THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT Many household items can be dropped off at the City’s Public Works Department, located at 1111 Joseph J. Schwab (Campground) Rd. Accepted items include tires with rims removed (limit 2), household batteries, fluorescent light bulbs, computers, and other electronics (Wednesdays only). Appliances (white goods) are not accepted. Local Motor Oil Recycling and Collection: O’Reilly Auto Parts, located at 1589 Lee St., accepts motor oil and oil filters for recycling. Call 847.635.6014 for more information. Other garages may also accept items.
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Spring Begins
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YARD WASTE & BRANCH COLLECTION It’s Not Too Late!
BRANCH COLLECTION
Recycle your holiday trees when landscape waste pick up begins in April. Please see the January page for this year’s details.
WEEKLY From April 6 through November 28, LRS will collect bundled branches weekly on residents’ regular garbage collection day. Branches should be: • Less than 4 inches in diameter and 4 feet in length.
YARD WASTE COLLECTION From April 6, 2026, through November 28, 2026, LRS collects residential yard waste weekly on residents’ regular garbage collection day. Please limit yard waste to: grass clippings, leaves, plant clippings, twigs, small branches and brush.
GUIDELINES • Place yard waste in 32-gallon containers with secure lids and handles, marked with a 12-inch red “X” on the bodies of the containers. • Or, place in 2-ply yard waste paper bags. • Do not place in plastic bags, cardboard boxes, or regular garbage containers. Those will not be collected. • When filled, yard waste containers and bags must not exceed 50 pounds.
• Tied in a bundle with string or twine (no wire or plastic). • Limit to 50 pounds (or less), or a total of 24 inches in diameter. These items will not be collected: debris (stumps), lumber, and large amounts of tree material. Note: Please contact a qualified tree service for appropriate debris removal.
MONTHLY May through September, Public Works will collect branch clippings one time per month per zip code—for a total of five collections. • Place branches on the parkway by 7 a.m. on the scheduled branch collection date for the corresponding zip code. It may take up to 2 weeks to collect each zone. If branches are placed out late, incorrectly, or cannot be reached, collection will not be attempted again until the next month. • Do not obstruct sidewalks or streets. • Branches should be 2 feet or longer, cleanly cut (without roots), and smaller than six inches in diameter, with cut ends pointing to the curb.
COLLECTION SCHEDULE
60016
60018
1st Collection
May 4
May 18
2nd Collection
June 1
June 15
3rd Collection
July 6
July 20
4th Collection
August 3
August 17
5th Collection
September 8
September 21
MARCH 2026
April 2026 SUNDAY
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BUILDING PERMIT INFORMATION GENERAL GUIDELINES
BUILDING PERMIT GUIDES
The City of Des Plaines requires building permits and contractor registration for most construction projects. Building permit applications and field work must comply with City building codes, which are established to safeguard public health and welfare.
Looking for permit tips? Check out desplainesil.gov/permits for the Building Division’s permit guides. These are a helpful resource for construction projects!
Some of the projects that require permits include:
CONTRACTOR LICENSE
• Demolition work – exterior or interior. • Roofs, fences, decks, driveways, sidewalks, patios, stoops and stairs. • Sheds, gazebos, carports, pergolas, pools, and hot tubs. • Heating and air conditioning, electrical work, plumbing work, and fire sprinklers. • Retention walls and other landscaping with grading changes. • Signs and banners.
HOW TO APPLY The City’s permit process is now digital! Apply through the online portal at: desplainesil.gov/permits.
DES PLAINES IS
All contractors working on a project in Des Plaines must be registered with the City. Go to desplainesil.gov/ contractorlicensing to apply for the Contractor License through the online portal.
PERMIT POSTING AND SITE PLANS desplainesil.gov/permits Submit all materials via online portal Easy online payment
IMPORTANT INFORMATION • Permit applications and guidelines: desplainesil.gov/permits • Inspections: 847.391.5382 • Contractor Licenses: desplainesil.gov/contractorlicensing • General inquiries – Building Division: 847.391.5380 | permits@desplainesil.gov
For every project, the permit placard must be posted where it is visible from the street, such as a front window. It is the property owner’s responsibility to make sure that the permit placard is posted even if a contractor applied for the permit on their behalf. The property owner or contractor must have a set of approved plans onsite as well.
INSPECTIONS Every permit requires at least one inspection. To schedule an inspection, call the City’s Building Division at 847.391.5382. A good “rule of thumb” is to call for an inspection before covering up construction work with drywall, plywood, concrete, etc. This will save you time and money in the end. Every issued permit requires a final inspection to close out the project.
APRIL 2026
May 2026 SUNDAY
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Community Garage Sale
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Armed Forces Day
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Food Truck Round Up
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CITY-SPONSORED EVENTS In Des Plaines, fun is never far from home. The City hosts a robust lineup of free, community-focused events that bring neighbors together and offer plenty of ways to spend time with friends and family.
sky-high display that Uncle Sam himself would salute. A few days later, the Independence Day Parade fills the streets with colorful floats and patriotic cheer.
One of the highlights of the year is Taste of Des Plaines, a two-day street festival that fills downtown with live entertainment and local flavor. Thousands of residents and visitors come out to enjoy this annual favorite, making it a true community celebration and a summer staple.
Autumn arrives with Harvest Hoot, a celebration of seasonal fun and a wise choice for family-friendly activities. In the winter, the Holiday Tree Lighting and Winter Fair bring bright lights and merry nights, filling the city with festive magic.
Hungry for more than just the big summer festival? Tuesday evening Food Truck Round Ups rope in great food and good company, offering an easy way to grab dinner and soak up the evening outdoors.
With events spanning every season, there’s always something happening in Des Plaines. Explore the City’s full lineup and get more details on all the events mentioned above at desplainesil.gov/events.
Des Plaines also knows how to celebrate the big holidays. The City’s 4th of July festivities kick off at Oakton College with the Community Fireworks, featuring a
DESPLAINESIL.GOV/EVENTS
MAY 2026
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Flag Day
Council Meeting 7 p.m. Branch Collection for 60018 Begins
Juneteenth Taste of Des Plaines – Downtown Des Plaines
Taste of Des Plaines – Downtown Des Plaines
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CURBSIDE WASTE COLLECTION RESIDENTIAL SERVICE INFORMATION The City of Des Plaines contracts with LRS to provide trash, recyclables and yard waste collection services. Residents are billed on a quarterly basis, directly by LRS. Visit lrsrecycles.com/desplaines for everything you need to know. For questions or service requests, contact LRS at 844.NEED.LRS or by email at service@LRSrecycles.com. If you have an issue or concern, you can reach out to Des Plaines Public Works at 847.391.5464. All trash, recycling, and yard waste is collected on the same day.
SENIOR DISCOUNT LRS has a discount program for senior citizens. Residents age 65 or over who want to participate can fill out a form and send it LRS via email or mail, along with proof of age and eligibility in the form of a valid state-issued driver’s license or identification card or United States passport. Scan the QR code or visit desplainesil.gov/wastecollection to download the form. Call 844.NEED.LRS with any questions.
GARBAGE COLLECTION DAYS No Collection Wednesday Monday
Thursday
Tuesday
Friday
CARTS & CONTAINERS HELP US HELP YOU: • Place items in the appropriate carts with lids closed and place curbside on the parkway before 6 a.m. on collection day. Remove from the curb by the end of collection day. • Please do not place carts out before 4 p.m. the day before collection. • Face wheels toward the house. • Fill containers completely before placing any extra items next to the carts. • Securely close lids. • Do not place items on top of the lids or in front of the carts. • Please leave a 2-foot separation between carts, and also between each cart and mailboxes or trees. • Do not store containers in front yards. Please move to the backyard or garage. Damaged or missing carts can be replaced by calling LRS. Des Plaines residents may rent additional recycling and garbage carts directly from LRS when needed.
ZONE 5 FRI.
No Collection
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Monday
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Tuesday
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ZONE 5 FRI.
ZONE 3 WED. ZONE 4 THURS.
ZONE 2 TUES.
ZONE 4 THURS. ZONE 1 MON.
ZONE TUES
Visit desplainesil.gov/wastecollection for a more detailed map.
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Independence Day (Observed) Independence Day City Offices Closed Independence Day Parade One-Day Delay for Refuse Collection Due to Holiday
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MESSAGE FROM DES PLAINES POLICE AND FIRE CHIEFS Dear Neighbors,
NATIONAL NIGHT OUT
As the Chiefs of the City of Des Plaines Police and Fire Departments, we pledge to maintain the safety and welfare of all community members. Both departments are committed to serving everyone in their care with dignity, determination, and decency.
Tuesday, August 4
To support this mission, the Police Department continuously strives to build strong connections with residents while responding promptly to emergencies. Officers prioritize effective communication to better understand and address local concerns. By focusing on community policing and collaboration, they work to earn trust, serve alongside you, and create a safer environment for everyone. Likewise, the Fire Department combines effective emergency response with proactive community engagement. Supported by advanced training and modern equipment, firefighters handle every situation carefully and efficiently. They also promote safety awareness and provide resources while investing in their teams and technology to meet the city’s evolving needs. In line with our shared focus on public safety education, we encourage all residents to follow both departments on Facebook for helpful tips and other important information straight from your first responders. Facebook.com/DesPlainesPolice Facebook.com/DesPlainesFireDepartment Sincerely, Police Chief Dave Anderson Fire Chief Matt Matzl
POLICE CHIEF DAVE ANDERSON
FIRE CHIEF MATTHEW MATZL
Each year, National Night Out is celebrated on the first Tuesday in August. While it’s a great opportunity for some last-minute family fun before the school year begins, the event is about much more than that. It’s a nationwide tradition that brings neighbors and first responders together, building stronger connections and fostering a safer, more vibrant community. Join us to meet the people who protect and serve Des Plaines. You can explore Police and Fire Department vehicles up close, watch an exciting demonstration by our police K-9, and see our Tactical Response Team in action during a simulated scenario. Food trucks, live entertainment, and interactive activities from local community groups round out the fun. There’s truly something for everyone!
JULY 2026
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National Night Out
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RECYCLING INFORMATION RECYCLING DROP OFF For those recycling items that aren’t allowed in your regular pick up, the City of Des Plaines accepts specific items at the Public Works facility, 1111 Joseph J. Schwab (Campground) Rd., on Wednesdays only from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
What should and should not go into the blue LRS recycling cart?
ACCEPTED ITEMS (PER DROP OFF) • Automobile Batteries: Limit 2 • Household Batteries: Nickel cadmium, nickel metal hydride, lithium ion and small sealed lead batteries accepted. Terminals should be covered in tape. • Tires: Rims must be removed. Limit 2 • Fluorescent Light Bulbs: Limit 4 • Electronics including: Computer components, phone equipment, hand-held electronics, DVD and VCR players and televisions. (The City’s contracted recycling company will wipe all computer hard drives to the National Institute of Standards and Technology standards.)
IMPORTANT NOTICE ABOUT HOUSEHOLD PAINT Household paint cannot be accepted for recycling at the Public Works building. However, latex paint can be dried out in a ventilated area before being discarded into the garbage. Oil-based and lead paint can be brought to a household hazardous waste collection center. See the November page of this calendar for information.
METAL
Steel & Aluminum Containers and Foil
PAPER
Cardboard (flattened), Office Paper, Newspaper, Magazines
YES PLASTIC
CARTONS
NO
PLASTIC BAGS
Containers: Bottles, Tubs, Jugs, and Jars Only
No Product Wrap
PREVENT STORMWATER RUNOFF POLLUTION Storm drains can carry pollutants to our streams and waterways. There are many simple, basic steps people can do each day to prevent storm water pollution: • Don’t dump waste into storm drains. • Keep yard clippings out of the street. • Dispose of household chemicals properly. • Clean up oil spills and fix leaking automobiles. • Use drip pans to catch engine oil and other pollutants while repairing cars. • Recycle used motor oil. Report dumping at 847.391.5400.
GLASS
Containers: Bottles & Jars Only
Clean & Empty
Replace lids & caps Put material in loose – Not in Bags
BIG ITEMS
Electronics, Wood, Propane Tanks, Scrap Metal, Styrofoam
FOOD, LIQUID, DIAPERS, BATTERIES, NEEDLES CLOTHING
Textiles or Shoes
TANGLERS
Hangers, Wires, Hoses, Ropes, or Chains
These guidelines represent the common items accepted in most recycling programs. For more information, visit LRSrecycles.com.
AUGUST 2026
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Patriot Day Patriot Day Ceremony
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Lawn Watering Restrictions End
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Autumn Begins
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Fire Department Open House
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LEAF COLLECTION OPTION 1 - WEEKLY BAGGED LEAF COLLECTION The collection of residential leaves is part of an ongoing yard waste program that LRS provides April through November. Please see the April calendar page for more information.
OPTION 2 - DROP OFF AT PUBLIC WORKS FACILITY The City’s Public Works Department will accept leaves from Monday, October 19 through Friday, December 18. Hours for drop off are between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., Monday through Friday. Only leaves can be accepted during this time. Empty your containers in the designated area conveniently located on the north side of the Public Works facility at 1111 Joseph J. Schwab (Campground) Rd. Yard waste, such as grass clippings, branches, etc., should be placed curbside for yard waste disposal. To maintain the proper flow of stormwater, roadside ditches, gutters and sewers must remain clear of leaves.
OPTION 3 - CITY’S BULK CURBSIDE COLLECTION The City’s residential bulk curbside leaf collection is separate from the refuse service’s weekly yard waste pick up. This seasonal in-house program provides residential leaf collection starting Monday, October 19, and continuing through early December, weather permitting.
2026 CURBSIDE LEAF COLLECTION SCHEDULE ZONE 1
ZONE 2
ZONE 3
ZONE 4
ZONE 5
Oct. 22 Oct. 29 Nov. 5 Nov. 12 Nov. 18 Nov. 25
Oct. 23 Oct. 30 Nov. 6 Nov. 16 Nov. 23 Dec. 2
Oct. 20 Oct. 27 Nov. 3 Nov. 10 Nov. 19 Nov. 30
Oct. 21 Oct. 28 Nov. 4 Nov. 13 Nov. 20 Dec. 1
Oct. 19 Oct. 26 Nov. 2 Nov. 9 Nov. 17 Nov. 24
LEAF PLACEMENT IN STREETS To participate, leaves need to be raked into the street by 6 a.m. on the scheduled pick-up date. Being careful to keep storm drains clear, residents are encouraged to position the leaves into one neat, continuous row, 1-foot (12 inches) from the curb. Only leaves should be raked into the row. Please note: grass, branches, brush, rocks, and other debris will not be collected. To accommodate curbside collection, street parking in posted areas is not allowed on the day of collection from 6:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. Where the streets are not posted, residents should be considerate of their neighbors as well as the workers to ensure the success of this ongoing program.
LEAF PLACEMENT IN PARKWAYS Residents living on the following streets should place leaves in the parkways, instead of the streets, to provide for safe parking and traffic flows: • Algonquin Road • Ballard Road • Busse Highway • Central Road • Dempster Street • East River Road • Elmhurst Road
• Golf Road • Lee Street • Mannheim Road • Mount Prospect Road • Northwest Highway • Oakton Street
• Potter Road • Rand Road • River Road • Thacker Street • Touhy Avenue • Wolf Road
The curbside leaf pick-up zone numbers are the same as the refuse pick-up zone numbers as shown on the July calendar page. However, the curbside leaf pick-up days are different than the refuse pick-up days. Curbside leaf pick-up days are shown on the October, November and December calendars. In December, there is a leaf drop-off deadline. If leaf collection and snow removal seasons overlap, snow removal will take priority.
SEPTEMBER 2026
October 2026 SUNDAY
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Columbus Day City Offices Closed Refuse Collection Will Follow Its Normal Schedule
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Council Meeting 7 p.m.
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Harvest Hoot
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Council Meeting 7 p.m. Leaf Drop Off at Public Works Begins Leaf Pick Up Zone 5
Leaf Pick Up Zone 3
Leaf Pick Up Zone 4
Leaf Pick Up Zone 1
Leaf Pick Up Zone 2
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Leaf Pick Up Zone 5
Leaf Pick Up Zone 3
Leaf Pick Up Zone 4
Leaf Pick Up Zone 1
Leaf Pick Up Zone 2
Halloween
SUSTAINABILITY STARTS WITH SIMPLE STEPS DISPOSE OF CHEMICALS AND MEDICATIONS
HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) coordinates one-day household hazardous waste collections each year in the spring and fall. There are also several longterm collection facilities available for disposal of household hazardous waste throughout the year.
It’s also important to clean out your medicine cabinet and dispose of your prescription drugs safely to protect the environment and prevent these drugs from getting into the wrong hands.
Contact IEPA at 217.782.3397 or visit www2.illinois.gov/epa for further information. Scan this QR code to view the full list of locations along with an interactive map.
Household Batteries
Correct disposal of household hazardous waste (HHW) is important to prevent the spread of chemicals in our soil, air and water. When HHW ends up in landfills, it can leach out and contaminate our soil and groundwater and can contribute to health risks. For example, abandoned tires can provide a breeding ground for disease-carrying mosquitoes and can impede proper drainage, which can lead to flooding and fires.
Improper dumping of this waste is illegal and violators will be issued a citation. If you witness this, call 9-1-1. Please contact the Des Plaines Police non-emergency number at 847.391.5400 if you discover illegally dumped items.
ACCEPTABLE WASTES
PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS
Insecticides, Pesticides
If you cannot bring unwanted medications to an appropriate facility, the Des Plaines Police Department hosts a free Drug Take Back Event every April and October. Residents can also turn in drugs safely and anonymously at the Police Department year-round.
Aerosol Paint, Cleaning Products
Fluorescent Light Bulbs
The IEPA also provides these guidelines for safe disposal of medicines: Mercury
Oil-Based Paint Thinner
Old and Expired Medications
Gasoline, Used Motor Oil, Antifreeze
UNACCEPTABLE WASTES
Fireworks, Explosives
Controlled Substances
Farm Oil, Agricultural Chemicals
Fire Extinguishers
Lead Batteries
Smoke Detectors
Needles
Propane Tanks
1. Remove or mark over all labels that identify the materials as pharmaceuticals or that provide personal information. 2. Dissolve them in a small amount of water or alcohol, or grind them up and mix them with coffee grounds or cat litter. 3. Put them in a second container or small plastic bag and place them in your trash. Improper “sharps” disposal can threaten public safety, puncture and injure waste haulers, and contaminate and jeopardize recycling programs. Residents may place syringes, needles, lancets and other sharp objects in puncture-proof hard plastic or hard metal containers with tightly secured lids, which may then be placed in the garbage, not in the recycling.
OCTOBER 2026
November 2026 SUNDAY
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Daylight Saving Ends
Council Meeting 7 p.m. Leaf Pick Up Zone 5
Leaf Pick Up Zone 3
Leaf Pick Up Zone 4
Leaf Pick Up Zone 1
Leaf Pick Up Zone 2
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Leaf Pick Up Zone 4
Leaf Pick Up Zone 5
Leaf Pick Up Zone 3
Veterans Day Leaf Pick Up Zone 1 City Offices Closed Refuse Collection Will Follow Its Normal Schedule
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Council Meeting 7 p.m. Leaf Pick Up Zone 2
Leaf Pick Up Zone 5
Leaf Pick Up Zone 1
Leaf Pick Up Zone 3
Leaf Pick Up Zone 4
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Leaf Pick Up Zone 2 Leaf Pick Up Zone 5 Leaf Pick Up Zone 1 Final Week of Refuse Service Curbside Yard Waste and Branch Collection
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WATER & UTILITY INFORMATION HOW YOU CAN WORK TO LOWER YOUR BILL • Fix leaks in toilets, faucets, and pipes immediately. Even small leaks can waste hundreds of gallons of water per year. • Upgrade to water-efficient fixtures, such as low-flow showerheads, faucets, and toilets with WaterSense labels to use less water without sacrificing performance. • Only run dishwashers and washing machines with full loads. • Sign up for the Water Customer Portal to monitor your water usage and get real-time alerts. This can quickly identify a leak issue, minimizing water use costs. Sign up at desplainesil.gov/mywater. • Water Wisely - Water your lawn and garden early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce evaporation.
CUSTOMER PORTAL We’ve made it easy for you to keep track of your water consumption. Whenever. Wherever. Start today by visiting desplainesil.gov/waterdashboard to access the Customer Portal and set up an account. Once verified, you will be able to monitor your meter(s), receive usage alerts, and identify a leak or other problem before it gets costly.
NOVEMBER 2026
December 2026 SUNDAY
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Leaf Pick Up Zone 4
Leaf Pick Up Zone 2
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Holiday Tree Lighting
Council Meeting 7 p.m.
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Last Day to Drop Off Leaves at Public Works
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Christmas Day City Offices Closed One-Day Delay for Refuse Collection Due to Holiday
Council Meeting 7 p.m. Winter Begins
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New Year’s Eve
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SIGN UP FOR E-NEWS Stay in the loop with City news, events, and updates that matter to you. Pick your topics and get emails tailored to your interests! 1. Go to desplainesil.gov/mycity. 2. Choose the topics you’re interested in. .
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DECEMBER 2026
January 2027 SUNDAY
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Council Meeting 7 p.m. Public Works Holiday Tree Collection Begins (Weather Permitting)
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Last Day for Refuse Service Holiday Tree Pick-Up Service
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Martin Luther King Jr. Day City Offices Closed Council Meeting 7 p.m. Refuse Collection Will Follow Its Normal Schedule
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RE:DDP AN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY FOR DOWNTOWN DES PLAINES We are committed to making Downtown Des Plaines a vibrant destination for residents and visitors. As part of the ongoing Re:DDP plan, the City is exploring initiatives to improve public spaces and support redevelopment. These efforts aim to enhance dining options, create welcoming places for community gatherings, and expand recreational opportunities throughout the downtown corridor. Visit desplainesil.gov/downtown to learn more.
DESPLAINESIL.GOV/DOWNTOWN
JANUARY 2027
February 2027 SUNDAY
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MONDAY
Find more information at desplainesil.gov
TUESDAY
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Council Meeting 7 p.m.
Groundhog Day
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Valentine’s Day
Presidents’ Day Council Meeting 7 p.m. City Offices Closed Refuse Collection will Follow its Normal Schedule
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Connect With Us! CALL US AT 847.391.5300 Get connected with City staff who will help with whatever you need.
STREAM DES PLAINES VIDEOS Watch videos about City services, events, and more. YOUTUBE.COM/CITYOFDESPLAINES
GET SOCIAL Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. DESPLAINESIL.GOV/SOCIAL
STAY INFORMED Get City news and information delivered straight to your inbox. DESPLAINESIL.GOV/MYCITY
CITY PHONE NUMBERS ADMINISTRATION Mayor’s Office: 847.391.5301 City Clerk’s Office: 847.391.5311 City Manager’s Office: 847.391.5488 Media Services Office: 847.391.6122 COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT General Inquiries & Building Permits: 847.391.5380 or 847.391.5370 Building Inspections: 847.391.5382 Property Maintenance: 847.391.5520 Business Registrations: 847.391.5366 FINANCE DEPARTMENT Utility Bills: 847.391.5322 FIRE DEPARTMENT Administrative Offices: 847.391.5333 HUMAN RESOURCES General Inquiries: 847.391.5486 POLICE DEPARTMENT Human Services: 847.391.5480 Non-Emergency: 847.391.5400 Police Records: 847.391.5504 PUBLIC WORKS AND ENGINEERING Public Works: 847.391.5464 Engineering: 847.391.5390
CITY FACILITIES City Hall: 1420 Miner Street Fire Station #61: 405 South River Road Fire Station #62: 1313 East Oakton Street Fire Station #63: 130 East Thacker Street Police Department: 1418 Miner Street Public Works Building: 1111 Joseph J. Schwab (Campground) Road
MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR Dear Neighbors, Every day, I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of Des Plaines and collaborate with the City Council and City staff to make the community stronger. Having deep roots in this city, I remain committed to advancing progress for the benefit of the next generation. We are making ongoing improvements to roads, alleyways, water and sewer systems, and city facilities, creating a community where families and businesses can thrive. The results of these efforts are being noticed: in 2025, Des Plaines earned national recognition, ranking among the Top 250 Best Places to Live in the U.S. and #10 in Illinois by U.S. News & World Report. This distinction highlights the quality, affordability, and opportunities our City offers, and reflects how people beyond our community are recognizing the progress happening here. The recognition Des Plaines has received is an important milestone, but it’s just the beginning.
YOUR ELECTED OFFICIALS The City of Des Plaines is a municipal government comprised of ten elected officials: the Mayor, City Clerk and eight Aldermen. The City is divided into eight wards, with residents of each ward electing an Alderman to represent the ward.
CITY CLERK
Andrew Goczkowski agoczkowski@desplainesil.gov 847.391.5301
Dominik Bronakowski dbronakowski@desplainesil.gov 847.391.5311
WARD 1
WARD 2
Margaret Chlebek mchlebek@desplainesil.gov 847.514.8526
Colt Moylan cmoylan@desplainesil.gov 847.530.3345
To view the locations of all eight wards, visit desplainesil.gov/maps.
Looking ahead, the City’s 2026 budget prioritizes both community investments and fiscal responsibility in hopes of building on that momentum. Major capital projects include a new Fire Station No. 62, continued street and sidewalk improvements, upgrades to water and sewer systems, and expansion of the public works facility. These investments are designed to enhance public safety and support a vibrant, thriving community. Through the day-to-day work of making Des Plaines better, the City will continue to emphasize community connection and fun at City-sponsored events. I look forward to seeing you at our annual celebrations: the Taste of Des Plaines and Food Truck Round Ups; the Community Fireworks and Independence Day Parade; Harvest Hoot; and our Holiday Tree Lighting and Winter Fair, all offering opportunities to connect with neighbors and celebrate what makes Des Plaines such a special place to call home.
MAYOR
WARD 3
WARD 4
WARD 5
Sean Oskerka soskerka@desplainesil.gov 847.514.6318
Dick Sayad dsayad@desplainesil.gov 847.894.4719
Thomas Merlin tmerlin@desplainesil.gov 847.812.6463
WARD 6
WARD 7
WARD 8
Mark Walsten mwalsten@desplainesil.gov 847.372.1097
Patsy Smith psmith@desplainesil.gov 847.878.5289
Mike Charewicz mcharewicz@desplainesil.gov 847.878.5291
In the meantime, if I can be of service to you, I encourage you to please call me at 847.391.5301 or email me at agoczkowski@desplainesil.gov. Yours in service,
Andrew Goczkowski Mayor
2026 Community Calendar JANUARY
FEBRUARY
MARCH
APRIL
MAY
JUNE
Holiday Recycling
Winter Weather
Waste (Garbage) Disposal
Yard Waste and Branch Collection
Building Permits
CitySponsored Events
JULY
AUGUST
SEPTEMBER
OCTOBER
NOVEMBER
DECEMBER
Curbside Waste
Message from your Police and Fire Chiefs
Recycling
Leaf Collection
Household Waste
Water and Utility
BONUS: January 2027 (E-News Sign Up), February 2027 (Re:DDP) Information accurate at time of print.
Flip for important City contact information and a Message from the Mayor.