IL HB5972

County boards that establish code hearing units may create an ordinance establishing a fine schedule for code violations.

Fine schedules must include a determinate fine that respondents can voluntarily pay before their hearing date and a separate fine that may be imposed after a hearing.

Fine amounts must be based on the nature of the offense and the respondent's history of previous convictions for the same or related violations.

Violation notices must inform respondents they can avoid appearing at a hearing by paying the determinate fine at least 5 days before the scheduled hearing date.

Respondents who fail to pay the determinate fine or appear at their hearing, if required, may be found liable and subject to fines and costs as determined by county ordinance.