IL HB5098

Amends Section 7-1-1 of the Illinois Municipal Code to define contiguous territory for municipal annexation purposes, including territory separated by lakes, rivers, waterways, strip parcels (up to 30 feet wide), railroads, and recreational trails.

Allows municipalities to annex non-contiguous territory separated only by forest preserves, federal wildlife refuges, open space, or conservation areas if the municipality demonstrates these create an artificial barrier and prevent orderly growth, with exceptions for parcels under one acre.

Requires municipalities to notify the Department of Transportation, election authorities, and post offices within 30 days of any annexation, disconnection, or disconnection and annexation action via certified or registered mail.

Prohibits annexations from taking effect until 10 days after notifying affected Fire Protection Districts and Public Library Districts, and requires notification of township officials before annexing territory that includes township highways.

Restricts annexations involving electors from taking effect before primary elections (if filed after petition deadline) or within 60 days before general elections until the day after the election occurs.