Complaints & Violations

Example of an illegal motor vehicle storage yard on property zoned residential.

Within the unincorporated areas of Winnebago County, the Zoning Ordinance regulates many activities such as, but not limited to uses of the property, setback requirements, outside parking and storage of vehicles and signs.

Violations of the Zoning Ordinance are addressed primarily on a complaint basis. If you believe a ZONING violation exists you may fill out a complaint form and submit it to the Planning, Zoning & Mapping or contact the department at (815) 319-4350 with the following information:

1. The address of the violation.

2. A detailed description of the violation.

3. Your name and telephone number.

ALL INFORMATION GIVEN WILL BE KEPT CONFIDENTIAL.

Every violation will be addressed by the Zoning Investigator to whatever extent is necessary in order to obtain compliance. Violations may be taken to hearing code where fines can be given. If further action is necessary, violations may be taken to circuit court which can result in forceable action being ordered by a judge.