Frequently Asked Questions

Where do I pay for a traffic ticket or parking ticket?
  Traffic tickets can be paid through the mail. The address is on the back of the white envelope that the Officer gives to you at the time of the traffic stop. You can also pay the ticket in person at the 6th District of Cook County in Markham, Illinois. Parking tickets can be paid at the Police Department at any time of the day. However, if you have any questions regarding the parking ticket, you must contact Park Forest's Parking Administrator during normal business hours at (708) 748-4701.

Where do I appear for traffic court? 
  Depending on the type of citation, court is held in different locations. Please check the lower right portion of your citation for a court date and location. If you are unable to find a location, call the Park Forest Police Department Records Department at (708) 748-4701.

Where can I change a court date for a traffic offense?
  Court dates are issued through Markham Circuit Court. Police personnel are not authorized to change court dates. Please contact Markham Circuit Court at (708) 596-8000.

Where can I get a copy of a Police report that I filed?
  Police reports are available at the Park Forest Police Department for a fee of $5. Not all reports are available for release, including most open cases.

How can I obtain information about sex offenders registered in Park Forest?
  Park Forest sex offender information can be found on this website by clicking here . You can also obtain sex offender information at the Illinois State Police website, www.isp.state.il.us/sor/.

Am I required to change the address on my driver's license when I move?
  Illinois residents are required to update their driver's license within 10 days upon relocation. If you are a new Illinois resident, you must notify the Illinois Secretary of State's office within 90 days of the address change. The closest SOS facility is located in Chicago Heights, behind Ultra Food Store on Route 30. You can also visit SOS online at www.sos.state.il.us.

How many animals can I have in my home?
  Village ordinances limit animals to no more than three dogs and cats.

Must I register my animals with the Village?
  Yes. Annual pet licenses must be purchased at Village Hall. To qualify for such a license, the pet owner must provide proof of an up-to-date rabies vaccination from a veterinarian.

My dog is very well trained; must I have him on a leash at all times?
  You cannot allow your pet to run at large within the Village limits. If the dog is on private property, a leash or fence is required. The length of the leash should prevent the dog from entering adjacent private property or within five feet of any public street, parkway, or sidewalk.

Does the Police Department remove wild animals from my property?
  No. Police animal control officers handle only tame animals. If you have a problem with raccoons, skunks, or other wildlife, you should contact a private firm that specializes in untamed animals. These firms are not connected with the Village and may charge for their services.

What time is the curfew in Park Forest?
  Village ordinances prohibit anyone 16 and under from being present on any public assembly, building, place, street, or highway between the hours of 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. Sunday to Thursday, and from 12:01 a.m. to 6 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday, unless accompanied by an adult.

Can my child ride a mini-bike in Park Forest?
  Village ordinances prohibit the use and/or operation of any all-terrain vehicle, go-kart, mini-bike, motorized skateboard or scooter, or off-road motorcycle, on any public street, public sidewalk, or on any private property without the consent of the property owner.

My car is not working right now. How long can I leave it parked on the street?
  Cars must be moved within 72 hours if parked in the same street spot. No one can store or park any damaged inoperable or junk vehicle in any open lot or location open to the public either on public or private property. Such vehicles can be towed by the Police Department. Towing and storing costs would be the car owner's responsibility.

Can I burn leaves in my backyard?
  You cannot burn tree or bush trimmings, vegetable matter, paper or other combustible debris; waste, rubbish; garbage; green, wet painted or treated wood; wood products cotnaining glue, binders or chemicals; plastics or other synthetic organic products; magazines, colored paper or gift wrap. However, you can burn clean, dry, unpainted or treated wood in an outdoor wood burning device, sold specifically for outdoor residential use.





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