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Business Taxes

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1. What are business taxes?

The business taxes are imposed on businesses within the City of Highland Park. The tax must be paid to the City and the appropriate tax return must be completed and submitted with payment.

2. Who pays the business tax?

Payment of this tax is the responsibility of the business.

3. How much is the business tax?

The food and beverage tax is 1% and is assessed upon food and beverages prepared and sold for immediate consumption provided that facilities are available to consume the food on the premises, regardless of whether the consumption occurs on the premises or not.

The package liquor tax is 1% and is assessed on alcoholic beverages sold in original containers.

The motor fuel tax is two cents per gallon or a fraction thereof, sold at retail.

4. What are the requirements?

A copy of the Illinois Department Revenue ST-1 form (or ST-2 for multiple locations) must accompany the completed City of Highland Park tax return. Motor fuel tax returns to also include a copy of the PST-2. Each of these taxes is effective July 1, 2005. The reporting and remittance of taxes collected are due to the City of Highland Park on the last day of each calendar month for the immediately preceding calendar month. Therefore, the first return will be filed by August 31, 2005, for July 2005 sales.

5. What methods of payment may be used?

Currently, the City of Highland Park is equipped to receive funds paid by cash or check, or if paying in person, by credit card.

6. What if I need further information?

For further information on the City's food and beverage tax, package liquor tax, or motor fuel tax, please call the City of Highland Park's Finance Department at (847) 432-0800. You may also contact the Office of Economic Development at (847) 926-1027.

7. Are there any exemptions to this tax?

No, presently there are no exemptions to this tax.

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City Manager

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1. How can I register for youth or senior classes?

The City of Highland Park serves youth in the community in grades six through eight and also serves the senior population of persons ages 50 years old and older. Both the Youth Center and Senior Center provide an array of activities, classes, trips and outings. Please contact the Youth Center at (847) 433-3090 and contact the Senior Center at (847) 432-4110 for more information.

2. Where can I establish my new business?

The City of Highland Park contains nine business districts that offer future business owners a multitude of options. In order to find the most appropriate location, the City’s interactive business map allows business owners to view available commercial properties throughout Highland Park. For more information, please contact the Office of Economic Development by calling (847) 926-1027.

3. Where can I view live and archived City Council meetings?

The City of Highland Park offers live and archived City Council and Plan Commission meetings online. Online viewers may watch meetings live or view them at a later date. A meeting agenda is also made available to online viewers. For more information, please contact Emily Palm in the City manager’s office by calling (847) 926-1046.

4. When are Contractors/Landscapers allowed to work?

By City Code, Contractors/Landscapers are permitted to work between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, and between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, and not at all on either Sundays or Holidays. For more information, contact the City Manager's Office by calling (847) 926-1000.

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Cross Connection Program

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1. How does contamination of water occur?

Water normally flows in one direction from a public water system through a private one, and finally to a plumbing fixture (faucet, garden hose, etc). A pollutant may enter the potable water system if the pressure at the pollution source exceeds the pressure of the potable water source. The reversal of the flow of water is called backflow, and leads to the possible contamination of the public water supply. Backflow may also occur as a result of a sudden loss of pressure in the water system.

2. What can cause backflow?

Backflow is usually caused by a sudden drop of the water pressure in a public water main. This can create a subatmospheric condition. For example, if the pressure drops in a system while a hose is in a bucket of dirty water, that water could backflow into the public water system, potentially contaminating the water for other users. A drop in pressure could be caused by a variety of things, including a water main break or the loss of power at a pump station.

3. What can I do to prevent backflow?

• Keep the ends of your hoses free of any possible contaminants
• If your threaded faucets are not equipped with an in-line protection device, install an approved hose bibb vacuum breaker or other backflow prevention devices
• Never submerge hoses in buckets, vats, sinks, tubs or ponds
• Use spray attachments or valve spray hoses that have a devise to prevent backflow
• Do not connect waste drain pipes from water softeners or other treatment systems directly to the sewer system
• All drains should be air gapped

4. Why do backflow preventers have to be tested?

Mechanical backflow preventers have internal seals, springs and moving parts that are subject to fouling, wear or fatigue. Additionally, mechanical backflow preventers (and air gaps) can be bypassed. All backflow preventers must be tested periodically to ensure that they are functioning properly. A visual check of air gaps is sufficient, but mechanical backflow preventers have to be tested with properly calibrated gauge equipment. This is usually done once each year.

5. Who can test backflow preventors?

For your information, City staff compiled a list of contractors from records of those who have recently performed inspection and testing of backflow prevention devices in the City of Highland Park. Inclusion in the list is not an endorsement or recommendation for any of them. Any licensed plumber who is certified by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency as an inspector is acceptable.

6. Who can I contact for additional information?

For additional information, please contact Don Jensen at the City of Highland Park Water Filtration Plant at (847) 433-4355.

7. Where can I find additional information?

The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency has created several informational guides on cross-connections and specific devices and methods used to prevent backflow:
View the EPA's Cross-Connection Control Methods and Devices
View the Illinois EPA "Cross Connection Rule Summary"
View City Ordinance on Backflow Protection

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Fire Hydrant Flushing

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1. Why is hydrant flushing necessary?

Hydrant flushing enhances water quality by flushing sediment from the water mains, verifies
the proper operation of hydrants and valves and maintains firefighting capability.

2. What should I do when the City crews are flushing hydrants in my area?

If you see a crew flushing a hydrant on your street, avoid running tap water and using the
washing machine or the dishwasher until the flushing is completed. If you see hydrant flushing
crews working in the area, please drive carefully and treat them like any other road construction crew.

3. What should I do after hydrant flushing?

If tap water is used during flushing, it could come out full of sediment that causes discoloration. If you encounter discolored water, shut the water off and wait several minutes. After waiting, check the clarity by running cold water for a few minutes to allow new water to work its way into your pipes. If the water is clear it’s ok to use. If not, wait a few more minutes and check again. In some cases, there may be slight discoloration for a few hours. This discoloration only affects the appearance of the water; it does not affect the taste or water quality. Avoid washing laundry during scheduled flushing times. Wait until the water runs clear at the tap, then wash a load of dark clothes first. Hot water tanks can hold discolored water for some time after the cold water runs clear. If pressure or volume seems low, check your faucet screens for trapped particles.

4. Why does my water look different after hydrant flushing?

When a hydrant is opened, there will be temporary incidences of discolored water while fine sediment particles are flushed out. There is no health hazard associated with the discolored water. Allow a few hours for discoloration to dissipate. To verify water is clear, run your cold water tap for a few minutes.

5. Who do I call for more information?

For additional information about water quality please call Water Plant Superintendent Don Jensen at (847) 433-4355.

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General Police FAQ's

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1. Do you have an internship program for college students?

Yes. Each year, the Police Department accepts a college intern who’s major is Criminal Justice or a related field. If you are interested please contact the Deputy Chief of Administrative Services at (847) 926-1112.

2. If I want to have a garage sale, are there any limitations?

“Sales” in residentially zoned areas are limited to 1 per year/per premises. Such sales can not extend over more than 3 consecutive weekends. All merchandise sold must be limited to household goods and furnishings, which have been in use in the dwelling unit(s) located on the premises. Prior to holding a sale in a residentially zoned area, written notice must be submitted to the Police Department no less than 3 days prior to the sale.

3. What is the difference between a garage sale and an estate sale?

An Estate sale requires a permit from City Hall whereas a garage sale does not. An Estate sale occurs when goods are brought into a Highland Park home from another location to be sold in Highland Park.

4. Can Highland Park Police Officers be hired to perform private security or traffic control at a private function?

Off-duty Highland Park officers may be hired to work “off-duty” assignments within the City of Highland Park. There is a 2-hour minimum and the current rate is $63 per hour (which is reviewed and established on an annual basis). To request an off-duty officer, please contact Records Secretary Claudia Ennessy at (847) 926-1798 at least 72 hours in advance. Billing information will be obtained and an invoice will be sent from the City after the services are completed. Services can be cancelled up to 24-hours before the event. If cancellation occurs with less than 24-hours notice, the minimum 2-hours will be billed to the customer.

5. Are there any requirements for commercial filming?

Highland Park City Code requires a permit for any commercial filming within the city limits. Applications must be filed at the Police Department no later than 5 business days prior to the filming dates. There is a non-refundable fee of $50 ($200 for a major film). Commercial filming is limited to 7AM and 7PM Monday-Friday and 9AM to 5PM on Saturday. Variations outside these established time frames requires City Council approval. To view the City Code regarding commercial filming, please click on the following link: http://www.cityhpil.com/pdf/ordinances/chapter099.pdf . Applications forms can be downloaded by clicking here.

6. If we want to have a block party, what do we need to do?

Residents are required by Highland Park Code (118.636 and 118.637) to obtain a block party permit from the Police Department. Applications are required to be submitted to the Chief of Police no less than 30 prior to the date of the block party.

7. What do I do if I have a wildlife problem?

As of January 1, 2010, the following services are no longer provided by the Police Department:
1. Deer population control
2. Trapping and removing nuisance animals inside and outside of a private residence or business (unless a public safety condition exists inside a living or work area)

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How Do I?

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1. How do I become CPR certified?

The Fire Department offers classes to certify citizens in the use of CPR and automated external defibrillators to save lives. These classes and certifications are under the auspices of the American Heart Association. Classes are available in adult and infant CPR. Class length is generally three hours. The cost is $40 per person. Classes can be arranged for groups of six or more which are held at station headquarters located at 1130 Central Avenue. The group classes are limited to groups based in Highland Park. Those wishing to be certified who are not part of a group are encouraged to call the Fire Department as there may be upcoming groups with spaces available. To schedule a CPR class for your group, or to inquire about the program, please contact the Fire Department at (847) 433-3110.

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Online Police Reporting

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1. What do I do if online incident reporting is not right for me?

If your incident is an emergency, call 911. If it is a non-emergency call (847) 432-7730.

2. What if this happened in another city, can I file a report using the online police citizen reporting system?

No, If a crime took place outside of the City of Highland Park, please call the law enforcement agency for that jurisdiction.

3. What is a known suspect?

A known suspect is when you or someone else knows the person or where to find the person who committed the crime or the license plate number of the vehicle the suspect(s) were in.

4. If I have information for the Police but want to remain anonymous, can I do so?

Yes. You may call the non-emergency number at (847) 432-7730 and indicate you wish to remain anonymous.

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Public Works

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1. Can residents park on the street during the winter?

By City Code, residents may park on streets except between the hours of 2:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m., from December 1 through March 31. However, to permit City plows to most effectively clear City streets, it is recommended that residents avoid parking on the street during any significant snowfall until after the department has completed its snow removal operations.

2. How hard is our water?

Dishwasher and detergent manufacturers recommend that customers call their water utility in order to optimize detergent use. Our water is between seven and eight GPG (grains per gallon) of hardness. Expressed as a calcium carbonate equivalent, this is about 134 PPM (parts per million). On dishwasher charts, this usually is rated as moderately hard water. This is the natural hardness of Lake Michigan water, which is derived from the limestone in the lake bed. Our water treatment does not affect hardness.

3. Why does my tree have a green dot?

As you travel around Highland Park, you may have noticed that some of the trees adjacent to City streets are marked with a green dot. On most public streets, the strip of land adjacent to the edge of the streets is owned by the City, even in those areas where a sidewalk doesn't exist. This strip of land is the public right of way.

The green markings are placed on trees, under the direction of the City forester, to help track trees standing on the right of way. Each year, in preparation for routine trimming, all trees in a scheduled section of Highland Park are re-inventoried and all markings are refreshed. For this reason, some dots in town may appear greener and brighter than others. The dots may be more noticeable in the winter when vegetation is sparse. The markings do fade quickly and in many parts of the City, the dots are barely visible.

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Real Estate Transfer Tax

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1. What is the real estate transfer tax?

The real estate transfer tax is imposed on the seller of real property within the City of Highland Park. The tax must be paid to the City and a transfer tax stamp must be obtained before the recording of documents.

2. Who pays the tax?

Payment of this tax is the responsibility of the seller.

3. How much is the tax?

The tax is $5 per $1,000 (or any fraction thereof) of the property's selling price. For example, if the sales price is $300,000, the tax is $1,500.

4. What is required for payment?

• A copy of the deed (original deed required when applying for exemption)


• Completed utility form


• Completed transfer tax declaration form


• Completed and notarized disclosure statement


• Payment of the final water bill

5. When can I pay the transfer tax?

All necessary documentation and payment of a final water bill is required to obtain transfer stamps. It is recommended that the tax be paid and that transfer stamps be obtained before closing. The finance counter at City Hall, 1707 St. Johns Avenue, is open Monday through Friday, between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

6. What methods of payment may be used when purchasing real estate transfer stamps and paying a final water bill?

Currently, the City of Highland Park accepts funds paid in cash or by cashier's check, certified check, title company check or by attorney's check if the attorney's check is pre-printed with "Attorney at Law." Personal checks are not accepted.

7. Where can I purchase transfer stamps?

In addition to the finance counter at City Hall, real estate transfer stamps may be obtained through the mail. Simply submit required forms to:
City of Highland Park
Attn: Finance Division / RETT
1707 St. Johns Ave.
Highland Park, IL 60035

To schedule a final water bill reading, contact Administrative Clerk Dorothy Forrest by calling (847) 926-1016. Final water readings may be scheduled within one week of the closing date.

8. Are there any exemptions to this tax?

Yes. For a complete list of exemptions, please refer to Section 97.1004 of the City Code that addresses the real estate transfer tax, or to page 2 of the Real Estate Transfer Declaration Form.

Please note: When applying for an exemption, sufficient proof of all facts necessary to establish the specific claimed exemption must be provided.

In the event transfer tax stamps have been paid for on a transaction that may qualify for an exemption, the stamp must be returned to the City Finance Department with a request for refund and documentation of the appropriate exemption.

9. What if I need further information?

For further information on the City's real estate transfer tax, view detailed instructions, or call the City of Highland Park's Finance Department at (847) 432-0800.

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Snow Removal

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1. When does the City respond to an ice or snow problem?

The City maintains contact with both a local weather forecasting service and a modem-accessed weather radar system. This combination forewarns the department of storms so that employees can be either on-site or prepared to respond before the storm arrives. Public safety personnel work closely with the Public Works Department to identify specific salting needs.

2. Can residents park on the street during the winter?

By City Code, residents may park on streets except between the hours of 2:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m., from December 1 through March 31. However, to permit City plows to most effectively clear City streets, it is recommended that residents avoid parking on the street during any significant snowfall until after the department has completed its snow removal operations.

3. When are specific streets plowed?

While the answer is weather-influenced, under normal conditions all streets are plowed at least once within the first six hours of a three-inch snowfall. It is important to note that initial operations are staged simultaneously throughout the City, and that plows may need to make multiple passes along streets to move snow to the curb. Depending on a storm’s magnitude, response time will vary. Regardless, snow removal will continue until all streets are passable and all parking areas have been cleared.

4. Why do plows occasionally fill driveway approaches?

Plows need to make multiple passes to push snow back to the curbs. Because all streets need to be cleared, plows initially traverse the center of each street so cars can travel in both directions. After this has been accomplished Citywide, the plows return to push the snow back to the curbs. This is done so that melting snow can enter the storm sewers and drain away. Typically, it is during these two plowing intervals that homeowners shovel their driveways. Unfortunately, it is not possible for the trucks to plow and not fill in driveway areas. There are approximately 10,000 residential driveways in Highland Park.

5. Will salt be used this year?

Salt is used as one of the key elements of the snow removal operation. While the City recognizes that salt has an environmental impact, the initial salting effort concentrates on hills, intersections and areas which are inherently hazardous. Salt breaks the bond between ice and pavement, facilitating the snow removal process. Because temperatures below 20 degrees reduce salt effectiveness, calcium chloride is added to improve effectiveness.

6. How should drivers navigate the road when encountering a snow plow?

When approaching a snow plow, give the vehicle special consideration. These large, heavy trucks are difficult to maneuver in less than optimal driving conditions. Moreover, the sizable plow often reduces a driver’s visibility. Trucks also generate slush, which obscures visibility. Your best bet: steer clear!

7. What assistance can residents provide?

First, observe parking restrictions and avoid parking on the street during any significant snowfall until after the road has been cleared. If hiring a contractor to plow your driveway, ensure that your snow is not pushed across the street onto a neighbor’s property. Additionally, City ordinance prohibits removing snow or ice from any building, private property, driveway, driveway approach or public sidewalk and depositing it onto public streets. Depositing snow on public streets creates a traffic hazard particularly for streets that have already been plowed.

8. Who should residents call in an emergency?

The police dispatcher is always available at (847) 432-7730. If storm conditions become extreme, Public Works will activate the Emergency Communications Center at 1150 Half Day Road, which can be reached at (847) 432-0807. In addition, all plowing vehicles maintain continuous two-way radio communication with the Police Department.

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Water Distribution

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1. What happens when you call about a water main break?

All reports of leaks and breaks are investigated as soon as possible. Main breaks may leave some customers without water service. These breaks are given highest priority for repair. A repair usually takes six to eight hours to complete after the water is turned off to an area. There are times when repairs must be prioritized. Public Works appreciates customers'
patience as the work is completed as quickly as possible to restore water service.

2. When are main breaks or leaks most likely to occur?

Main breaks or leaks are most likely to occur during extreme weather conditions. Frigid weather is the most common time for main breaks, when both air and water temperatures can contribute to breaks. Hot, dry weather is the second most frequent time. Shifting ground and increased volume and pressure can stress water mains.

3. What happens after I call to report a water main break or leak?

Someone from the Public Works Water Division inspects the location of the suspected
break / leak and determines the source of the water. Upon determining that there is a water break / leak in the city-owned piping, emergency utility locates are called in. For safety reasons, no digging can commence until all underground utilities have been identified and marked. It takes up to two hours for emergency locates to be completed. During that time a Public Works repair crew is assembled and dispatched to the work site to begin notifying affected residences that the water will be shut off. Once residents have been notified and utilities located, the water main is excavated and repaired. Final restoration of the work site usually takes between two to four weeks from the time the work has been completed. Site restoration is dependent upon the type of restoration required and scheduling work with the other divisions. Winter excavations are usually completed during April and May. Restorations are dependent upon the availability of materials to finish the repairs (e.g., hot asphalt).