Chicago residents can now cultivate native plants up to 36 inches tall on parkways, thanks to a newly passed ordinance by the City Council. This change, championed by Alderman Brian Hopkins, addresses previous restrictions that limited plant height to 10 inches, often resulting in fines for gardeners.

Supporting Local Ecosystems

The ordinance aims to encourage the growth of native and pollinator-friendly gardens, which are crucial for supporting local species such as monarch butterflies. Hopkins noted the importance of such plants during the Sheffield Neighborhood Association’s annual garden walk, where he observed the benefits of taller native species like purple coneflower and milkweed.

Environmental advocates, including Naomi Davis of Blacks In Green, have welcomed the change. Davis highlighted the role of native gardens in creating peaceful community spaces and enhancing urban greenery. Her organization operates the Mamie Till Mobley Forgiveness Garden, which benefits from the increased height allowance.

Registry and Education

The new height limit applies to gardens registered in the Native and Pollinator Garden Registry, established in 2021 to differentiate between native plants and weeds. This registry provides protections against fines and helps city officials identify and support pollinator gardens.

Gloria Pittman, deputy commissioner of the Department of Streets and Sanitation, emphasized the educational aspect of the ordinance, noting that experts on the advisory board will guide the city in managing these gardens. Since 2021, the department has issued over 5,000 tickets for weed overgrowth, but no fines specifically for pollinator gardens.

Brian Comer, president of the Sheffield Neighborhood Association, expressed optimism about the ordinance’s impact on urban biodiversity and aesthetics. He stressed the importance of native plants in supporting insects and maintaining a healthy environment in the city.

Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.