FAQs • Rock Island County, IL • CivicEngage

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Animal Care and Control - General

1. Are there public areas where I can let my dog run free?: Yes. Hasselroth Dog Park is located at 28th Street and 78th Avenue West in Rock Island, Illinois.

2. Are there rabies in the Rock Island County area?: There have been reported positive cases of rabies in wildlife in the State of Illinois, therefore it is imperative that you keep your pet vaccinated to protect them should then encounter wildlife.

3. Are there ways people can help the shelter?

A large part of our Shelter's success in placing adoptable pets depends upon contributions from citizens like you! We are continually looking for dedicated volunteers to assist our staff. For more information concerning volunteer work and opportunities, click here!

We are also always in need of extra towels, blankets, soft dog or cat food, pet carriers, and chew toys for our dogs. If you have any of these items that you are willing to donate, please drop them off at the Shelter during office hours. View our complete wish list.

If you would like to donate money to the non-profit organization, Q.C. Paws, please send your check or money order payable to Q.C. Paws and mail to 4001 - 78th Avenue, Moline, IL 61265 or find out more about donating to the Rock Island County Animal Care and Control Shelter.

4. Does the Rock Island Animal Care and Control Shelter offer veterinary services?: Our shelter offers a wide variety of basic and preventative veterinarian services. We do not have the ability to provide emergency or trauma services.

5. Does the Rock Island Animal Care and Control Shelter make presentations to schools or community organizations?: Yes, we provide humane education and responsible pet ownership presentations to schools and other organizations. At these presentations, we emphasize such topics as public safety, dog bite prevention, responsible pet ownership and humane care of animals. Please call (309) 558-DOGS (3647) to arrange for a presentation.

6. Do you board animals?: No. We do not have the space to board privately owned pets. Check your telephone book under boarding kennels.

7. Do you have a foster parent program?: Yes. Please contact the shelter at (309) 558-DOGS (3647) for more information.

8. Do you have special rates for Senior Citizens?: All our fees are based on income guidelines and state and local ordinance laws governing the registration fees.

9. How do you put animals to sleep?: When it is necessary to "put an animal to sleep" it is done by an injection, the same way it is done by a private veterinarian clinic. It is performed by a licensed veterinarian or certified euthanasia technician. It is a very humane, painless and peaceful process for the animal. It is the option of the pet owner to be with the pet during this procedure. We provide private euthanasia for owners when needed and may be available to perform this service in the comfort of your home. Please call (309) 558-DOGS (3647) for details.

10. How long do animals remain at Rock Island County Animal Care and Control: Stray animals are held for seven (7) days to allow an owner the opportunity to reclaim their pet. If no owner comes forward, the animal is evaluated for adoption. If the evaluation shows the animal is adoptable, it is processed and moved to the adoption floor. If it is determined that the pet is not adoptable, the animal would be humanely euthanized.

11. How many pets am I allowed to have on my property?: Check with your city of residence for their local ordinances on the number of animals you can have. If you are in un-incorporated Rock Island County, you may have as many animals that you can care for, but are required to obtain a kennel license if have more than four (4) dogs. View the Rock Island County Animal Control Ordinance.

12. How much does it cost to retrieve my dog from the shelter if it has been picked up by an Animal Control Officer?: Fees vary depending on whether or not the dog is registered, vaccinated for rabies, micro-chipped, altered and length of time at our shelter. Fees range from a minimum $25.00 and increase from there.

13. If I leave a deposit, will you hold an animal for me?: For $10.00 you may place a twenty-four (24) hour hold on an animal you are interested in adopting. If you adopt the animal, the $10.00 is applied towards the adoption fee, if you elect not to adopt the animal, the $10.00 is non-refundable and used to care for that animal for that day it was not able to be adopted.

14. Is Rock Island County Animal Care and Control a "no kill" shelter?

We are an "open admissions" shelter meaning that we accept every animal into our shelter. We do not turn away any animals at our door. We evaluate every animal and if the animal is deemed adoptable, it will not be euthanized. If it is determined that the pet is not adoptable due to either behavior or medical issues, then it would be humanely euthanized.

A no-kill shelter would simply not accept an unadoptable pet at their door, requiring that this animal be brought to our shelter.

Sometimes a home cannot be found due to the animal's temperament, age, general health, etc. If you do turn your animal into the animal shelter, be sure to tell the office staff as much as you can about your pet, i.e. housebroken, likes to ride in cars, does not like baths, does not like other cats, gets along with other dogs, etc. This will help in the adoption process.

15. I am not able to care for my pet anymore. What can I do?

Rock Island County Animal Care and Control is committed to helping families and their pets stay together. We will work with you as much as possible to help you.

If you have decided that you have no option but to give up your pet, you can relinquish your pet at our facility, which is located at 4100 - 78th Avenue, Moline Illinois, during business hours. There is a $20.00 per pet surrender fee. We cannot guarantee that we will be able to find a home for all surrendered pets.

16. My pet has fleas, what should I do?: There are many flea preventatives/treatments available over the counter, but these products do not generally solve the problem. You should contact your veterinarian for his/her recommendations in dealing with fleas. Rock Island County Animal Care and Control shelter has flea products available for sale.

17. Should I have my cat declawed?

The United States is the only country in the world that legally allows declawing, but declawing is a painful and difficult operation. It is the same as removing the first joint on all your fingers. It impairs the cat's balance and causes weakness from muscular disuse. Declawed cats are defenseless. Cats need their claws for protection. You may know that your indoor cat will never have to climb a tree in order to escape their neighbor's chihuahua, but your cat doesn't know it. Declawing makes a cat feel insecure and defenseless. It is radical to cut off so many parts of the body to prevent such a simple behavior problem.

The stress resulting from being declawed creates more problems than it allegedly solves. Some declawed cats become more nervous biters; others are known to become even more destructive to furniture than before the operation; and many cats stop using the litterbox.

There are alternatives to declawing. Exercise and play with your cat regularly. Give him a scratching post and teach him to use it. Temporarily confine your cat to a small area where he does not have access to your furniture. A few days in a room with a litter box, food, water and of course a scratching post is much more humane than declawing. Trim you cat's nails on a regular basis. The curved tip of the claw is the part that hooks into fabric, rugs, etc., and causes the most damage.

18. What is the difference between a Humane Society and the Rock Island County Animal Care and Control Shelter?

A Humane Society is a non-profit/privately funded organization that accepts only selected, owner turned in animals for a fee and then adopts them out again for a fee. Because they choose which animals they want to take in and which ones they don't, they are able to regulate their in-house population and not euthanize any of them.

The Rock Island County Animal Care and Control Shelter accepts all animals and is run by and for the public. Not only do we adopt animals out to good homes, but we also handle all noisy animals complaints, bite complaints, distress calls for hurt animals and any other animal related occurrences around the County.

The Rock Island County Animal Care and Control Shelter provides Animal Control Officers who are either on duty or on-call seven (7) days a week for service. Each animal is evaluated and if it is deemed adoptable, it will not be euthanized. if it is determined that the pet is not adoptable due to behavior or medical issues, then it would be humanely euthanized.

A no-kill shelter would simply not accept an unadoptable pet at their door, requiring that this animal be brought to our shelter.

19. What method of payment does the shelter accept?: The shelter will accept cash, check, credit card, money order, and cashier's checks. Photo identification is required for all transactions.

20. When I come to the shelter, can I play with the animals?: All animals available for adoption are viewable and able to be handled outside their cages, our cats are in an open environment and may be handled outside of cages. Volunteers may also play with and socialize adoptable animals.

21. Where can I find a veterinary hospital that will perform emergency services for my pet?

Most veterinary hospitals provide emergency care during their regular hours, however, for emergency services "after normal business hours", go to:

Animal Emergency Center

1510 State Street

Bettendorf, IA

(563) 344-9599

22. Where can I get a "Pet-Friendly" Illinois License Plate?: Illinois offers Pet-Friendly License Plates for your car with proceeds going to the State's spay and neuter fund. Contact the local driver's license office to obtain an application for these plates, or go to the website for the Office of the Illinois Secretary of State to obtain more information.

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Animal Control and Care - Adoptions

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1. Can I put my animal up for adoption at the shelter?: We accept all animals at the Rock Island County Animal Care and Control Shelter. If you are a pet owner, we will accept your pet for a $45.00 release fee. If the animal is deemed adoptable, it would be made available for adoption. If it is determined a behavior or medical issue deems the pet unadoptable, the pet may be humanely euthanized.

2. How do I adopt a Pet?: We recommend that you research breed characteristics, visit our shelter, then select and spend time with the animals. Once you have determined that a pet is a good match for your family, you will need to complete the adoption application and pay the adoption fee. Once this done, you and your new family member can head home!

3. How long does it take to adopt a pet?

Be willing to spend at least an hour and perhaps two from the time you arrive until you leave. After looking through our adoption wards, notify the front desk if there is a specific animal you are interested in.

If you are interested in one of the adoptable dogs or puppies, a kennel attendant will get the dog out for you to meet.

We encourage you to spend some time getting acquainted with the animal you are interested in so that you can get to know it before making your decision. After completing the adoption and registration information, you and your new best friend are on your way!

4. How much does it cost to adopt an animal from the shelter?

Cat Adoptions: $60.00 Dog Adoptions: $80.00

The fee to adopt a cat or dog includes the following services:

First years registration for adult pets, spay or neuter surgery, age appropriate vaccines, microchipping, and a health exam at the shelter. When a pet is adopted, any known medical history of the animal will be provided to the new owner.

5. Where do pets available for adoption come from?: Pets available for adoption, come to the shelter after being picked up as strays, turned in by residents, or surrendered by their owners for a variety of reasons.

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Arbitration Center

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1. What is arbitration in a nutshell?: Arbitration is a form of alternative dispute resolution. It allows both sides to present their case in an expedited fashion to a panel of three attorneys who render a decision that same day.

2. What cases are eligible for arbitration?: Cases involving claimed money damages in excess of $10,000 up to $75,000. Judges also have discretion to assign other cases to arbitration, such as small claims jury demand cases and Law cases where damages in excess of $75,000 are doubtful.

3. How do I know if my case is an arbitration case?: Cases filed as arbitration cases will have an “AR” as part of the case number. The number on the front of the complaint and summons will typically read 2004 AR ###. The 2004 represents the year the case was filed; the AR that it is assigned to the arbitration division; and the ### is the specific case number.

4. Can I opt out of arbitration?: No, in almost all instances, it is mandatory for cases involving money damages in excess of $10,000 but not more than $75,000.

5. Why must I go through the arbitration process?: The Illinois Supreme Court recognized that trials are expensive in terms of time and money for litigants, attorneys, and taxpayers. The arbitration system was created to save the majority time and money in resolving disputes of $75,000 or less. Many cases are successfully concluded in six to nine months and the vast majority of cases are concluded within one year of filing. Through the use of mandatory arbitration, the number of eligible cases actually going to jury trial has been reduced to one percent or less.

6. Where can I find copies of the rules regarding Arbitration?: Mandatory Arbitration rules can be found in the Supreme Court Rules (SCR) #86- 95 and in Part 24 of the Local Rules for the 14th Judicial Circuit Court.

7. Who serves as arbitrators?: Licensed attorneys in good standing who have undergone court approved training and retired judges serve as arbitrators. They request to be placed upon a list for possible service.

8. How are the arbitrators selected for any given panel?: Rose Reasor, the Arbitration Assistant, randomly selects arbitrators from a list of trained arbitrators. Since many arbitrators still practice law daily, scheduling sometimes has to work around their schedules.

9. How are arbitrators paid?: The State of Illinois pays each arbitrator $100 for each two hour arbitration hearing. A portion of each arbitration case filing fee is used to cover this cost.

10. I am named as a defendant in an arbitration case, what do I do?: Generally you were served with a Summons that requires you to appear on a certain date and at a certain time at a named courthouse. The best thing you can do is hire an attorney to represent you and appear at this hearing. If the lawsuit is brought because you were involved in an auto accident and you had insurance at the time, notify your insurance company. If for whatever reason you cannot hire an attorney, then you should be prepared to file an appropriate motion or answer at or before the initial hearing.

11. Where do I go on the initial appearance day?

Generally you appear at the time and date indicated on your Summons. For further direction to the appropriate courtroom assigned for use that day, you should report to the bailiff’s station on the First Floor of the Rock Island County Courthouse located at:

1317 3^rdAvenue
Rock Island, IL

Check in on First Floor at desk, the clerk will let you know if someone from the other side has checked in yet. When representatives from both sides have appeared, they should confer with each other prior to asking the Judge to call their case for hearing.

12. When do I need to bring my witnesses and evidence?: You do not need to bring your evidence and/or witnesses to the initial appearance date noted on the Summons. This time is used as a scheduling and status conference time. You will need your witnesses and evidence for the actual arbitration hearing and later the trial if the case is not resolved.

13. How do I get an arbitration hearing date?: You get an arbitration hearing date at a Friday morning status conference once all Defendants have been served and answers filed, if they are not in default. If there is no Answer filed, then there can be no Arbitration held for that Defendant. A Pre-Arbitration Order is usually entered setting the Arbitration Hearing Date.

14. What is an Answer?: An answer is a legal pleading. It admits or denies the allegations stated in the complaint, paragraph by paragraph. It is a binding document and there are potentially adverse consequences if prepared incorrectly. You are encouraged to have an attorney prepare the answer for you. There is a filing fee charged by the Circuit Clerk when the answer is filed.

15. What is a filing fee?: As a defendant, you will be charged a filing fee by the Circuit Clerk to file your answer and/or legal appearance in the case. The fee is usually between $334. The amount of the fee is set by the legislature not the Circuit Clerk.

16. How does arbitration work?: Each side has approximately 50 minutes to present their case to a panel of three arbitrators. One of the arbitrators serves as the chairperson and rules on the admissibility of evidence. It is treated like a mini-trial. There are opening and closing statements and the rules of evidence apply. The arbitration panel will issue a written decision (on a form authorized by the Supreme Court) that same day.

17. Can the Arbitration Panel hear my Motion to Continue?: No, only the Supervising Judge can continue an arbitration hearing, and then only for good cause shown. As soon as you know there may be a problem with the scheduled arbitration hearing date, file a motion to continue as monetary sanctions may be imposed for continuances heard less than 30 days prior to the arbitration hearing (see the Court’s memo on Motions to Continue).

18. What if the parties settle the matter within 24 hours of the Arbitration Hearing time?

If the parties settle the matter within 24 hours prior to the hearing, they have four options:

One or both parties may appear at the Arbitration Center and present a stipulation to the panel. The panel then uses the stipulation as the award. This procedure allows the parties to work out the details of the settlement (until the post-hearing status date) at which time they may either enter judgment on the award or dismiss the case.
The parties may dismiss the matter by preparing a signed dismissal order and faxing the order to the Arbitration Center.
The parties may prepare an order approved in writing by all parties entering judgment and fax it to the Arbitration Center.
Obtain a dismissal order or judgment order from a Judge of the Circuit and fax a copy to the Arbitration Center.

19. What if I am late to the arbitration hearing, will I still get a two-hour hearing?: No, if the hearing starts after the scheduled time due to the fault of one of the parties, that party will be penalized by deducting that amount of time from his/her presentation. If you are going to be late, please call the Arbitration Center. If the hearing starts after the scheduled time due to the fault of the Arbitration Center or one of the arbitrators, the parties will not be penalized.

20. What if one party does not show up?: If a party fails to appear at the arbitration hearing, the hearing will proceed ex-parte and the appropriate award will be entered. The Arbitration Chair may wait fifteen minutes at his/her discretion for a party to appear before commencing the hearing. Pursuant to SCR 91, the non-appearing party waives the right to reject the award and thereby consents to entry of judgment on the award.

21. If during the arbitration hearing, I disagree with an arbitrator’s ruling, may I stop the proceedings and go before the Supervising Judge for a ruling on the issue?: No, SCR 90(a) provides that arbitrators shall have the power to administer oaths and affirmations to witnesses; to determine the admissibility of evidence; and to decide the law and facts of the case. Rulings on objections to evidence or on other issues which arise during the hearing shall be made by the chairperson of the panel. The right of rejecting the award and proceeding to trial is the appropriate remedy for any perceived bias or prejudice on the part of any panel member or error by the panel in determining its award.

22. How do I get my evidence before the arbitration panel in a short amount of time?: You should review Supreme Court Rule 90. It provides for ways to submit documents into evidence without the need to lay a foundation.

23. How many copies of my Rule 90 packet should I bring?: As a courtesy, you should make at three copies of your Rule 90 packet, one for each of the three panel members, and any other evidence that you plan to present to the panel. The Arbitration Center is not responsible for documents left with it and therefore litigants are encouraged not to leave original documents at the arbitration center.

24. What happens to my exhibits?: The Arbitration Administrator stores the exhibits on the premises for seven days after the Arbitration Hearing. The parties must retrieve their exhibits within the seven-day period to avoid destruction. The Arbitration Center is not responsible for these documents and strongly urges all litigants to make copies of original documents and leave copies, not originals, with the panel while they deliberate.

25. What if the other side did not comply with the rules and I want to request that certain evidence be barred?: You will need to make a motion at the start of the arbitration hearing and ask the chairperson to rule on the motion. (Preferably the motion is in writing and served on the other side at least one week prior to the hearing.) The supervising judge does not rule on these motions prior to the arbitration hearing.

26. Is a court reporter automatically present?: No, a court reporter is not automatically present. You may arrange to bring your own court reporter at your expense if you like. Testimony from the arbitration hearing has limited use in any later trial of the matter.

27. Who is the Arbitration Administrator?: Dawn Tanner serves as the Arbitration Administrator. Victoria Bluedorn serves as the Court Administrator for the 14th Judicial Circuit.

28. Who is the Arbitration Supervising Judge and how do I schedule court time for motions before the Judge?: Circuit Court Judge Kathleen E. Mesich serves as the Arbitration Supervising Judge. Dawn Tanner with the Court Administrator’s Office (309-794-3605) serves as his scheduling clerk for court time.

29. When and where are Motions before the Supervising Judge heard?: Motions before the Supervising Judge are heard on the court’s regular daily docket call at the Rock Island County Courthouse, 1317 3^rd Avenue. Rock Island, IL, 61201. Call Dawn Tanner at 309-794-3605 to schedule court time. Because of the large volume of cases on the regular 9AM Friday status call, contested motions will not be heard at that time.

30. Where is the Arbitration Center?: The Arbitration Center is located two blocks East of the Rock Island County Courthouse. The Center is located on the first floor of the Paddock Building:
1617 - 2nd Avenue
Suite 100
Rock Island, IL 61201

31. What is the Arbitration Center Phone number?

Phone: 309-794-3605

32. Is the Arbitration Center handicap accessible?: Yes, the Center was completed in early 2001 and complies with the American’s with Disabilities Act.

33. Where may I park at the Arbitration Center?

Although there is two-hour street-side parking in front of the Arbitration Center, we would suggest you obtain a temporary parking pass from a representative at the Arbitration Center so that you may park in the lot at the rear of the building. The Arbitration Center is located in the first floor of the Paddock Building at:

1617 - 2nd Avenue
Suite 100
Rock Island, IL.

You may call the Arbitration Center at 309-794-3605 with any questions you may have. We would be happy to assist you.

34. Must I accept the decision of the Arbitration Panel?: No, you do not have to accept the decision. It is mandatory that the parties go through Arbitration, but this is non-binding arbitration in the sense that the award can be rejected.

35. How do I reject?: Within 30 days of the Arbitration Award, you must file a written notice of rejection with the Circuit Clerk and pay a rejection fee of $200 if the award is $30,000 or less or $500 if the award is more than $30,000. A copy of the Notice Of Rejection of Award form is available for download. A Rejection of Award cannot be filed at the post arbitration status hearing.

36. What happens when I reject the award?: At the Post Arbitration Hearing, your case will be assigned to a judge within the civil division and given a trial date. Generally a Post Arbitration Hearing Order is entered at that time.

37. Can I lose my right to reject the award?: In certain instances, you can lose your right to reject the award, such as if you fail to attend the Arbitration Hearing or fail to participate in the Arbitration Hearing in good faith. A judge will determine if you lose the right to reject the award.

38. Can I appeal the arbitration award?: No, since the arbitration is non-binding, you cannot appeal the arbitration award. You can only accept or reject the award.

39. What if neither side rejects the arbitration award?: If neither side files a timely rejection of the award, then the case ends by either being dismissed or judgment is entered on the award.

40. Can I call the arbitrator as a witness at trial?: No, SCR 93 prohibits calling the arbitrators as witnesses at trial.

41. What is a Pre-Arbitration Order?

This is a catch-all form order to cover most of the events that occur prior to the Arbitration being held. A copy of this Order is available for download.

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Assessment Office

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1. How can the value of my property have increased when I haven't done anything to it for many years?: Property value, or market value, is determined by many factors besides home improvements. Improving neighborhoods, how many houses are for sale, and inflation also affect the value of your property. Even though your house isn't for sale, it can be worth more because of these conditions. It is the township assessor's job to determine what your property would be worth if it was now for sale.

2. Why do similar houses in different neighborhoods have different assessments?: The houses are valued differently because their actual market values vary. The market values are different because the real estate market conditions are different. Location plays an important part in establishing market value. General location, distance from schools and commercial facilities, quality of surrounding properties, and neighborhood amenities are examples of factors that could and would cause a purchaser to pay more for a home in one neighborhood than in another.

3. What is the square footage, year built, etc. of my home?: The township assessor's office has the information regarding the building on a property.

4. Can I examine the Township Assessor's records to be sure they have the correct information on my house?: Yes. If you would like to review your Record Card, stop by your township assessor's office. With a few specific exceptions, all assessment files are open to the public. Not only is information about your home available, records about other homes in the area are also accessible. The Township Assessor's personnel will help you retrieve the information needed, as well as answer questions regarding the assessment or how to read the information.

5. Does the Assessor raise the assessment if I paint my house?: No. Most normal maintenance of the home will not raise the assessment. Additions to the home, such as; in-ground swimming pools, decks, porches, or fireplaces, etc., may add considerable value to the home and may increase the assessment.

6. What do I do if I do not agree with the assessment?: The best place to start is by contacting the township assessor's office in person or by phone. They will listen to why you feel there is a problem with the assessment, and explain their position. Most problems are cleared up after talking to the Assessor, but if you are still not satisfied a complaint may be filed with the Rock Island County Board of Review.

7. Who is my township assessor and what does he/she do?: Your township assessor is elected to a four-year term. They are the first step in the assessment process and have the responsibility of inspecting, listing and appraising your property. They are required to meet certain educational requirements before placing their name on the ballot.

8. What are the grounds for an appeal?

An assessment appeal is not a complaint about higher taxes. It is an attempt to prove that your property's estimated market value is either inaccurate or unfair. You may appeal when you can prove at least one of three things:

Items that affect value are incorrect on your property record card
The estimated market value is too high. You have evidence that similar properties have sold for less than the estimated market value of your property.
The estimated market value of your property is accurate but inequitable because it is higher than the estimated value of similar properties.

9. How do I research my assessment to see if it is accurate and fair?: You can use the Rock Island County assessment search page to find information on your assessed value. Contact your township assessor to inspect the assessor's records, which contain assessed values as well as information on the square footage, lot size, age, sale information, etc. You may inspect the records for your property or any other parcel of property. This information is all available to the public.

10. I have done my research and believe my assessment is inaccurate or unfair. What is my next step?

First, contact your local township assessor. He/She is most familiar with your property and the person directly responsible for the assessment of your property. Perhaps you can provide additional information regarding your property that would affect the assessment.

If no adjustment is made here, you will need to file an assessment appeal with the Board of Review. The Board of Review is a three-member panel appointed by the Rock Island County Board to review assessment appeals. The Board of Review examines evidence you have submitted and determines if an accurate and fair value has been placed on the property by the assessor or CCAO. Evidence can be a number of things: a recent appraisal, sales in your area, photographs of the physical conditions, (if your issue is market value) or a chart of comparable property assessments (if your issue is equity).

The next step in the appeal process is the State Property Tax Appeal Board. This is a five-member panel that reviews the local Board of Reviews assessments.

Note: You will not win an appeal because you think your taxes are too high. Assessment officials can only determine assessments, not taxes.

11. Will I be notified if my assessment changes?: Yes. Taxpayers are mailed a notice of change in their assessment reflecting assessor and CCAO changes. In addition, any changes in assessments must be published in a newspaper of general circulation in the county. Every four years a complete list of all assessments has to be published. Taxpayers have 30 days from the date of newspaper publication to file an assessment appeal to the Board of Review. Appeal forms can be obtained from the Board of Review office.

12. When I get my tax bill, is it too late to appeal?: Yes, it is too late to appeal your assessment. We finalize our assessments around the end of each year. Final assessments are certified to the Dept. of Revenue and forwarded to the Rock Island County Clerk to begin the process of calculating the tax bills. At that point, our files are closed and it is too late to change assessments. However, it is possible an error has been made in the calculation of your tax bill. For example, an exemption you qualify for may not have been applied on the bill. If you suspect an error, contact our office. It may be possible to correct the bill. An incorrect judgment or opinion on the value of your property is not justification for a corrected bill.

13. Are there any exemptions that provide property tax relief?: Yes. To review all exemptions and other available forms of property tax relief, see our Property Tax Relief page, or contact the CCAO office if you would like additional information.

14. How is farmland assessed?

Illinois, like many other States, assesses farmland based on its agricultural use value rather than its market value. Section 10-115 of the Property Tax Code provides for an "agricultural economic value". This value is based upon land use under average level management, relative productivity of soils, and the present worth of the net income accruing to the land from farm production.

In order to qualify for a special farmland assessment, Illinois law states the property in question must have been used as a farm for the previous two years. The statute defines farm as "any property used solely for the growing and harvesting of crops; for the feeding, breeding, and management of livestock; for dairying or for any other agricultural or horticultural use or combination thereof;... the keeping, raising and feeding of livestock or poultry,....fur farming. A farmland assessment will not be given to property which is primarily used for residential purposes even though some farm products may be grown or farm animals bred or fed on the property incidental to its primary use.

The assessment of real property, including farm property in Illinois, is the responsibility of your local county assessment officials. However by law, certain responsibilities have been assigned to the State of Illinois, particularly the Department of Revenue. For example, the DOR is required to calculate soil productivity index use-value figures and certify them to county officials each year. These officials then apply the figures to the identified soil types on individual farms or parcels of farmland in order to establish an assessment.

For more information on the Farmland Assessment Law, contact the Chief County Assessment Office.

15. Why are my taxes are so high?: The amount of your tax bill is determined by two things - a properties equalized assessed value and the applicable tax rates, which are dependant upon the level of spending of local taxing districts. If assessed values increase because of inflationary increases in property values, tax bills may not increase. If the taxing districts do not increase their levies, a general increase in assessed values means lower tax rates, and tax bill will not be affected. If taxing districts increase their levies, however, tax bills will increase regardless of changes in assessed values.

16. How can I freeze my taxes?: You cannot freeze your taxes, however, if you are 65 years or older, own and occupy your home, and have a total household income of $65,000 or lower you can apply for the Senior Citizens Assessment Freeze Homestead Exemption (SCAFHE). This will freeze the assessed value you are taxed on, so if your township revalues your property you continue to pay taxes on the amount it was valued at when you signed up for the SCAFHE.

17. When can I protest my taxes?

A property owner may object to all or any part of a property tax for any year by paying the taxes under protest and filing a tax objection complaint in circuit court. The complaint must specify objections to assessments, taxes, or levies. The court will hear the matter and make a decision.

Generally, paying taxes under protest because the assessment is incorrect will not result in a favorable outcome if an appeal was not first filed with the county board of review.

18. When are the tax bills due?: Contact the Treasurer's Office or visit the Treasurer's Property Tax Bill webpage.

19. Where can I get information on tax sales?: Contact the Treasurer's Office or visit the Treasurer's Property Tax Bill webpage.

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County Clerk - Assumed Name Business Act

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1. Who must file?: Illinois law requires that individuals conducting or transacting a business under any name other than the real names of the owners must file an Assumed Name Certificate with the County Clerk in the county in which the business is located. If the business will be incorporated, a corporation, or an LLC, file with the Illinois Secretary of State at 217-782-7880, not the County Clerk. For retail tax information, call 217-524-4772.

2. What is the procedure?

The Assumed Name Certificate (PDF) must be completed with the name and physical address (not P.O. Box) of the business, the type of product or service you're offering, and the names and home addresses of all owners/partners in the business. All business owners/partners must sign the form in front of a Notary Public (which are available in our office). The certificate is then filed in the County Clerk's Office along with a $10.00 filing fee, no personal checks accepted. At that time the Assumed Name Publication Notice will be issued to you.
The Assumed Name Publication Notice must be taken to a general circulation newspaper in Rock Island County. The Publication Notice is published once a week for three consecutive weeks. The first of the three filing notices must be published within 15 days of the initial filing of the Assumed Name Certificate.
After publishing, the newspaper completes the Publisher's Certificate, attaches a copy of the publication and mails a copy to the County Clerk's Office. The Publisher's Certificate must be received in the County Clerk's Office in order for the filing requirements to be complete. The Publisher's Certificate must be returned to the County Clerk's Office within 50 days from the date of filing.
After receipt of the Publisher's Certificate, the business will be mailed a Certificate of Ownership of Business. This will have completed all the Assumed Name filing requirements.
*Note: Certification of registration will be considered void if the first of the three notices is not published within 15 days of the initial filing of the Assumed Name Certificate or proof of the publication is not provided within 50 days from the date of filing.

3. What if there are changes in the business information?

If there is any change in the address, name of owner(s) or address, it is necessary to file a Supplemental Assumed Name Certificate (PDF) with the County Clerk's Office, indicating the change. The filing fee for this is $1.50, no personal checks accepted. Publication is again required if the change involves: adding owner(s) names to the business, closing the business, withdrawing owner(s) names when withdrawal involves 25% or more of the total ownership, or change of business address.

Most of these procedures can be accomplished by mail to the County Clerk's Office. If you have any questions, please call the Clerk's Office at 309-558-3569.

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County Clerk - Elections - Miscellaneous

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1. What options do voters with disabilities have?: The County Clerk's Office is committed to enhancing access to the polls to make it easier for disabled voters to cast ballots independently. Several assistance programs and services are available, including absentee voting, wheelchair-accessible voting equipment and voting aids. For more information, call 309-786-VOTE, 309-786-8683 or 309-558-3571.

2. Can a registered voter sign petitions for candidates of more than one political party for the same primary election?: No.

3. May a voter who voted Republican in the last primary election now sign a petition for a Democratic candidate?: Yes. However, no one may sign petitions for candidates of more than one political party for the same primary election.

4. What could happen if a voter signs one party's petitions for the primary election but requests another party's ballot at that primary election?: Illinois Statutes (10 ILCS 5/7-43) provide that no person shall be allowed to vote a party ballot in the primary election if the person signed the nominating petition of any candidate of another party or an independent candidate for any office for which such candidate is to be voted for at that primary election. If a voter requests the ballot of another party in the primary election, that voter’s right to vote that party’s ballot could be challenged in the polling place.

5. Do I have to declare a political party preference?: In Illinois, you do not declare a party when you register to vote. In primary elections, you must declare a specific political party ballot on election day.

6. Is a lottery conducted for party placement on the ballot?: For the general election, a lottery is conducted by each election authority for all established parties to determine the proper order of party placement on the ballot. This lottery is held within 30 days following the proclamation of the results of the primary election. New parties are involved in a lottery when there is a simultaneous filing with the State Board of Elections or the county Clerk. The State Board of Elections conducts the lottery for new parties which file in the Springfield office and the election authorities must use such order. No party lottery is done for the primary election since each party has its own ballot, separate from any other established party.

7. How can I help with elections?: Registered voters who are residents of Rock Island County are encouraged to serve as Election Judges. Each judge can receive up to $140 for attending a training session and working at the vote center on election day. Learn more about becoming an election judge, or you may contact the County Clerk's Office at 309-786-VOTE, 309-786-8683 or 309-558-3571.

8. May I use a cell phone in the polling place?: Cellular phones should not be brought in and used by a voter in the vote center. A voter using a cellular phone in the vote center may be considered electioneering.

9. What's on my ballot?: Approximately two weeks before the election, a specimen ballot is printed in the newspaper and will be available online. You can also call the County Clerk's Office at 309-786-VOTE, 309-786-8683 or 309-558-3571 for further information (or to have a specimen ballot sent to you).

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County Clerk - Elections - Registration

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1. How do I register to vote?: You can register to vote in-person or by mail. Read details on Registering to Vote.

2. Can I register at a public assistance office?: Yes. Any person who requests public assistance will be given an opportunity to register to vote. If you are already registered, there will be no need to register again unless you change your name or move.

3. Can I register to vote by mailing an application to my election office?: Yes. Under Federal law, citizens may apply to register to vote by mailing in an application. The applications are available at some public and private facilities where you live. When you register by mail your mail-in form must be postmarked prior to the close of registration. Learn more about registering by mail.

4. Do I ever have to re-register?

No, not unless you:

Move to a different address
Change your name

5. How will I know that I am registered?: Each newly registered voter will receive a voter identification card in the mail within a few weeks of registering. It is not necessary to bring the card with you on Election Day.

6. When can I consider myself officially registered to vote?: As soon as you receive a voter ID card in the mail, you can consider yourself registered. If you do not receive an ID card within three weeks after you have registered, call your County Clerk's Office.

7. What are the voter registration requirements?

You must be:

A U.S. Citizen
At least 18 years of age by the next General Election day
Must have been a resident of the precinct at least 30 days prior to election day

8. Do I need identification when I register to vote?: Two forms of identification with one showing your current residence address. If you register by mail, you must vote in person the first time you vote. See a list of acceptable forms of identification.

9. What if I'm not listed as being registered to vote at the vote center?: The Election Judge must call the County Clerk's Office to verify whether you are eligible to vote and to get further instructions. These instructions will depend on the circumstances of why you are not listed.

10. When can I register to vote?

Registration is open year-round except:

During the 27-day period just prior to an election
During the 2 days after such election

11. Is there a deadline to register?

You must register to vote no later than 28 days before an election.

Exception: Grace Period Registration

New legislation provides for in-person voter registration, or execution of a change of address for an already registered voter, during the period of the 27th to the 3rd day before an election. normally, voter registration closes 28 days prior to election day. However, this new legislation provides a "grace period" whereby a person may register at the office of the election authority only during the 25-day period following the normal close of registration. Anyone registering during this period will be required to vote in person at the time of registering. All "grace period" ballots will then be counted in the office of the election authority and not transmitted or counted in the vote center. Grace period voters cannot cancel their ballot and vote in the vote center on election day.

12. Where can I register to vote?

You can register to vote at:

The County Clerk's Office
1504 Third Avenue
Rock Island, IL
Any Township, City or Village Clerk's Office
Any major public library:
- Rock Island
- Moline
- East Moline
- Silvis
Your precinct committeeperson

View more details regarding voter registration locations.

13. Will I automatically be registered to vote when I renew my driver's license?: No. But you will be given the opportunity to register to vote. If you are already registered to vote, there is no need to register again unless you change your name or move.

14. What should I do if I change my name?: If you changed your name and moved outside the precinct before the election and did not re-register, you cannot vote. A person who changed his or her name before the election, and still lives in the same precinct and is otherwise qualified and did not re-register, may vote after completing an affidavit. A woman who continues to use her maiden name after marriage may vote without having to complete an affidavit if registered under her maiden name. See more details on voter registration.

15. What if I move, can I still vote?

It depends on when you move.

If you moved within 27 days of the election in the same precinct you can vote a full ballot by signing an affidavit.
If you moved more than 30 days before the election and did not transfer your registration, you cannot vote (Exception: In even-year elections you can vote for federal offices only, after completing an affidavit for "change of address").
If you moved within 30 days before the election outside of your precinct, but you still live in the State, and did not transfer your registration, you can vote a full ballot in your old polling place after completing an affidavit.

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County Clerk - Elections - Voting

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1. Can I receive help in voting my ballot?: If you have difficulty voting your ballot, you may request assistance from a friend, family member or Election Judges in your vote center. Both the voter and the individual(s) providing assistance must sign a legal affidavit. Contact the County Clerk's Office at 309-786-VOTE or 309-786-8683 for details.

2. How do I vote?: Voting instructions are posted in each voting booth on election day. Also, an Election Judge will offer you a demonstration.

3. May I vote for a write-in candidate?: Write-in votes will count only for candidates who have filed a declaration of intent to be a write-in candidate as required. The last day to file a declaration of intent to be a write-in candidate is 61 days prior to the election.

4. My next door neighbor's ballot is different than mine, why?: Your ballot may differ from your neighbors because precinct boundaries and units of government may not necessarily coincide. Ballot styles are specific to those candidates and issues for which you are entitled to vote.

5. What if I can't make it to my vote center?: Illinois law no longer requires a reason for voting absentee. Voters who wish to vote absentee must submit an absentee ballot application no later than five days before an election. Download and print an absentee ballot application (PDF) or you may call 309-786-VOTE, 309-786-8683 or 309-558-3571 to receive an absentee ballot application in the mail or to request curbside voting.

6. What if I make a mistake on my ballot?: If you make a mistake while voting your ballot, ask an Election Judge for a new ballot. If voting an absentee ballot, call 309-786-8683 or 309-558-3571 to request another ballot be sent.

7. What is early voting?: This law allows any person to vote early during the 15th through the 3rd day preceding an election. Any voter may cast a ballot during this 13-day period, needs no excuse or reason, but must show a valid government ID, unlike the requirements for absentee voting. The law prohibits a person who voted during the early voting period from voting again on election day, and a list of all early voters will be provided to the judges of election prior to the opening of the polls.

8. What is grace period voting?: Voter Registration closes 28 days prior to election day but with new legislation there is now “Grace Period” Registration/Voting. This option extends registration from the 27th through the 3rd day before the election. This “Grace Period” allows a new voter to register to vote, or to update their registration information during this 25-day period at the County Clerk’s Office only and once the voter has registered or updated their registration they must cast their ballot at that time. “Grace Period” Persons voting early do not get to cancel their ballot and vote at the polls on election day.

9. What is absentee voting?: Registered voters in Illinois who are unable to vote in-person at the polling place or voting center on Election Day. Download the Application for Absentee ballot (PDF). Does not require a reason or ID.

10. When is a person allowed to vote absentee?

You must submit an application for an absentee ballot (Download the Application for an Absentee ballot [PDF]):

By Mail - Not more than 40 days nor less than five days prior to the election; or
In Person - Not more than 40 days nor less than 1 day prior to the election

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County Clerk - Elections - Voting Assistance

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1. What options do voters with disabilities have?: The County Clerk's Office is committed to enhancing access to the polls to make it easier for disabled voters to cast ballots independently. Several assistance programs and services are available, including absentee voting, wheelchair-accessible voting equipment and voting aids. For more information, call 309-786-VOTE, 309-786-8683 or 309-558-3571.

2. What is Voter Assistance?: "Assistance" is the actual casting of a vote for a voter by a specified person in the privacy of the voting booth on Election Day. Those giving assistance must vote as directed by the voter.

3. Who may be Given Assistance?

Only those voters who genuinely need assistance may be given assistance. Illinois law provides that the following persons may receive assistance:

Physically disabled or blind voters
Those voters who cannot read or write the English language

Of course, all voters needing assistance must be registered to vote. Intoxicated voters do not qualify as being disabled and may not be given assistance.

4. Who Can Actually Give the Assistance?

Any voter who needs assistance in voting by reason of blindness, disability, or inability to read or write may be given assistance by a person of the voter's choice. However, the person giving the assistance cannot be an officer or agent of the voter's employer or union.

If the voter who needs assistance does not specify a particular person to assist him/her in voting, then the voter can be assisted by two election judges, one from each political party.

5. How is the Assistance Given?: Assistance is always given in the privacy of the voting booth. Anyone giving assistance must cast the vote as directed by the voter and must not give anyone information as to how the vote was cast. The person giving assistance must not attempt to influence the voter in any way. Anyone who knowingly threatens, forces, or pays a voter to vote a certain way is guilty of a Class Four felony.

6. Is an Affidavit Required?

Yes. Assistance can only be given upon the voter's request and only after the voter completes the appropriate affidavit. In every instance of assistance, both the voter receiving the assistance and the person(s) giving the assistance must sign the affidavit.

If disabled, the voter receiving the assistance and the person(s) giving the assistance must sign the affidavit.

If disabled, the voter must complete the affidavit stating if the specific physical disability is temporary or permanent. Also, the voter's "Application for Ballot" must be marked by an Election Judge to show that the voter requested assistance.

7. What if a Voter Needs Instruction?

"Instruction" is explaining to the voter how to use the voting equipment. "Assistance," however, is actually casting a vote for a voter as directed by the voter.

Any instruction that might be required should be given before the voter enters the booth. A specimen ballot, not the voter's official ballot, must be used during instruction. An affidavit is required for "assistance", but it is not required for "instruction".

8. What About Inaccessible Polling Places?

Any handicapped or elderly voter who cannot enter a polling place due to the structural features of the building, may request to vote outside (near the entrance) of his/her polling place. Such requests must be made with the election authority (County Clerk or Board of Election Commissioners) by the close of business on the day before the election. The election authority will then notify the appropriate election judges of the names of those persons making such a request.

If notification is received by the election judges the voter completes the entire voting process (weather permitting) outside the polling place as follows:

Two judges of opposite party affiliation deliver an application to the voter.
The completed application is brought back into the polling place to the verification judges.
After the signature and address are checked and it is determined that the individual is qualified to vote, the ballot and a portable voting booth or enclosure is provided to allow the voter to mark his ballot in complete secrecy. In no case can a ballot be delivered to a voter beyond 50 feet of the entrance to the building in which the polling place is located
After the voter completes voting, the two election judges take the ballot (keeping it inside its envelope) back into the polling place for deposit into the ballot box.

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County Clerk - Vital Records - Civil Union Licenses

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1. What is a civil union?

A civil union is a legal relationship granted by the State of Illinois. Partners who enter into a civil union in Illinois are entitled to the same legal obligations, responsibilities, protections, and benefits that state law provides to married spouses.

However, civil unions entered into in Illinois are not recognized under federal laws. Partners to a civil union in Illinois are entitled to almost none of the obligations, responsibilities, protections, and benefits that federal law provides to married spouses.

2. When do civil unions become legal in Illinois?: Civil unions become legal in Illinois on June 1, 2011.

3. Are civil unions only for gay and lesbian couples?: No. Both same-sex and opposite-sex couples who are in committed relationships can enter into a civil union in Illinois.

4. Can we enter into a civil union if one or both of us are 16 or 17 years old?: No, you must be 18 years of age or older.

5. Can we enter into a civil union if either of us has been married or in a civil union before?: Illinois law prohibits you from entering into a civil union if you or your partner are currently married or in a civil union or substantially similar legal relationship. To enter into a civil union, your prior marriage, civil union, or substantially similar legal relationship must either be dissolved or your previous spouse or civil union partner must have died.

6. Do we need a license to enter into a civil union?

Yes. To obtain a license to enter into a civil union, you must submit an application to a county clerk's office. You may submit the application to any county clerk's office in the state. A license is valid only in the county where it was issued and thus must be certified in that county.

The application requests basic information about you and your partner such as your names, sexes, occupations, address(es), social security numbers, dates of birth, and places of birth, as well as the names and addresses of your parents or guardians. You must also state whether you and your partner are related to each other and, if so, your relationship to each other. In addition, if you or your partner were previously married or in a civil union or substantially similar legal relationship, you must provide the name, date, place, and court in which the marriage, civil union, or other legal relationship was dissolved or declared invalid or the date and place of the former spouse or partner's death.

You may also need to provide proof to the county clerk that you and your partner are not prohibited from entering into a civil union. Illinois prohibits you from entering into a civil union if you or your partner are under 18 years old or with sworn consent of your parents or legal guardians if you or your partner are 16 or 17 years old. Proof of your age may include your birth certificate, passport, driver's license, or an employment certificate. You are also prohibited from entering into a civil union if you or your partner are already married or in a civil union or substantially similar legal union that has not been dissolved. Proof that your prior marriage, civil union, or substantially similar legal relationship has been dissolved may include a certified copy of your divorce or dissolution decree. If your prior spouse or partner died, you may be asked to provide a certified copy of his or her death certificate. You may also be prohibited from entering into a civil union if you and your partner are too closely related to each other.

Once you and your partner have submitted the application, the filing fee (described below), and any required proof that you are not prohibited from entering into a civil union, the county clerk will issue you a license to enter into a civil union.

7. Where do we get a license and how much does it cost?: Licenses are issued by a county clerk. In most counties, the license costs $30. The license becomes valid in the county where it was issued the day after it is issued and is valid for 60 days. During that time, you must have the civil union certified in that county by an authorized person or the license becomes invalid. Once you have the civil union certified, it becomes and will remain valid until it is dissolved.

8. Do we both need to be present at the county clerk’s office to apply for a license?: Yes. Both you and your partner must appear at the county clerk’s office to apply for a civil union license. You must each present proof of your identity, such as a current driver's license or state-issued photo identification. In addition, both you and your partner must sign the application in the presence of the county clerk. A representative cannot sign on one or both of your behalves, even if you have a power of attorney or notarized affidavit giving the representative authority to sign the application for you or your partner.

9. Who can certify our civil union?: Your civil union may be certified by a judge or retired judge of a court of record, a judge of the Court of Claims, a county clerk in a county having 2,000,000 or more residents, or a public official whose powers include solemnization of marriage. You may also have your civil union certified in accordance with the rules of any religion, Indian Nation or Tribe or Native Group, provided that any required officiant is in good standing.

10. Do we need to have a religious ceremony in order to enter into a civil union?: No. Illinois does not require a religious ceremony to enter into a civil union. Your civil union may be certified by a religious official, but can also be certified by non-religious officiant such as a judge or retired judge of a court of record, a judge of the Court of Claims, a county clerk in a county having 2,000,000 or more residents, or a public official whose powers include solemnization of marriage.

11. If I enter into a civil union in Illinois, will it be recognized in other states?: In most cases, no. However, a civil union entered into in Illinois may be recognized under the laws of some states. You should consult the laws of the state where you move to determine whether that state will recognize your civil union.

12. If I entered into a same-sex marriage, civil union or domestic partnership in another state, do I need to enter into a civil union again in Illinois?: No. If you entered into a same-sex marriage, civil union, or substantially similar legal relationship in another state, it will be recognized as a civil union in Illinois. You may be required to provide proof of your out-of-state union such as a copy of your marriage or civil union certificate or proof that you and your partner have validly registered as domestic partners.

13. If my partner and I registered as domestic partners in Cook County, do we need to enter into a civil union?: If you want the legal obligations, responsibilities, protections, and benefits extended to civil union partners under Illinois law, you may wish to enter into a civil union. These same legal obligations, responsibilities, protections, and benefits are not extended to domestic partners registered in Cook County. You can legally enter into a civil union even if you registered as domestic partners in Cook County.

14. If my partner and I had a religious ceremony but have not entered into a legal relationship in any state, do we need to enter into a civil union?: If you want the legal obligations, responsibilities, protections, and benefits extended to civil union partners under Illinois law, you must enter into a civil union. Your religious ceremony will not prohibit you from entering into a civil union in Illinois.

15. What happens if we enter into a civil union and our relationship later ends?

If you enter into a civil union in Illinois and your relationship later ends, your civil union must be dissolved by a state court in order to end your legal relationship with your civil union partner. If you and/or your partner move to another state after entering into a civil union in Illinois, the courts of that state may dissolve your civil union. If your civil union cannot be dissolved by the courts in the state of your residence, your civil union can be dissolved by an Illinois state court. The dissolution of civil unions follows the same procedures and is subject to the same rights and obligations that are involved in the dissolution of marriages.

Illinois law will dissolve your civil union if you either establish grounds for dissolving the civil union or if you and your partner have lived apart for at least two years and can establish that your civil union must be dissolved due to irreconcilable differences. If both you and your partner attest to the court that your civil union needs to be dissolved due to irreconcilable differences, the court may only require you to have lived apart for a period of six months in order to dissolve the civil union.

If you do not dissolve your civil union when your relationship ends, your legal relationship with you civil union partner will continue. You and your partner will continue to have certain legal responsibilities to each other and neither of you can enter into a marriage or another civil union or substantially similar legal relationship until the civil union is dissolved.

16. Can I sponsor my civil union partner for immigration?: No. Because civil unions are not recognized under federal law, a United States citizen who enters into a civil union with a partner who is not a United States resident cannot sponsor his or her partner for immigration into the country.

17. Can I cover my civil union partner under health insurance and other benefits provided by my employer?: Your employer is not required to allow you to enroll your civil union partner in any benefit plans, even if your employer allows other employees to enroll their spouses. However, your employer may permit you to enroll your civil union partner.

18. Are benefits that my employer provides to my civil union partner taxable?

You must pay federal income tax on the value of any health benefits that your employer provides to your civil union partner, unless your civil union partner qualifies as your "dependent" under federal income tax law. The fair market value of the portion of your civil union partner's benefits that your employer pays will be "imputed" as income to you that is reported as taxable income for federal income tax purposes, as well as for payroll tax purposes.

However, you will not pay Illinois state income taxes on these benefits. If you move to another state after entering into a civil union in Illinois, you may have to pay state income taxes on your civil union partner's benefits depending upon the laws of that state.

19. Can my civil union partner and I file jointly for federal income tax purposes?: No. Because civil unions are not recognized under federal law, partners to a civil union are not permitted to file joint federal income tax returns or to claim tax breaks or protections that the federal government affords to married spouses.

20. Can my civil union partner and I file jointly for state income tax purposes?: Yes. Civil union partners have the same right to file joint state income tax returns in Illinois as married spouses. Additional guidance on how civil union partners can file joint state income tax returns is needed from the Illinois Department of Revenue.

21. Will my civil union partner inherit my possessions after I die?

If you die without a will and you do not have any children, your civil union partner will inherit all of your possessions. If you have children and you die without a will, your partner will inherit half of your possessions and the other half will be divided amongst your children.

If you die with a will, your civil union partner has the right to renounce what you leave him or her in your will and will be entitled to half of your estate if you have no children. If you have children, your partner can renounce what you leave to him or her in your will and is entitled to one-third of your estate.

Your civil union partner will also have a right to certain financial protection while your estate is being settled following your death. Your civil union partner is entitled to a portion of the assets of your estate that an Illinois court determines is reasonable to support your partner during the first nine months after you die. In addition, if you and your civil union partner have children, the court will include additional money to enable your partner to support your children for up to nine months following your death while your estate is being settled.

22. If I die, will my civil union partner be entitled to receive Social Security survivor benefits?: No. Because federal law does not recognize civil unions, your civil union partner will not receive Social Security survivor benefits in the event of your death.

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County Clerk - Vital Records - Marriage Licenses

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1. Is a blood test or premarital exam by a physician required?: No. The Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act (750 ILCS 5/204) now only requires the county clerk to distribute free of charge, to all persons applying for a marriage license, a brochure "Getting Married, Know the Facts about Your Sexual Health" prepared by the Illinois Department of Public Health concerning sexually transmitted diseases and inherited metabolic diseases.

2. Is a marriage ceremony required?: No particular type of ceremony is required. The law simply requires the marriage to be performed by certain public or religious officials.

3. What is a common law marriage?: The Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act (750 ILCS 5/214) states that common law marriages contracted in Illinois after June 30, 1905 are invalid. A common law marriage was traditionally when a man and a woman lived together and held themselves out to the world as husband and wife for a certain period of time (such as seven or 14 years), and the law of the state in which they resided recognized them as husband and wife despite the lack of the formal legalities of marriage.

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Court Administration

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1. We would like to be married by a judge. Where do we get our marriage license and how do we make arrangements to see a judge?

Marriage licenses are obtained through the County Clerk's Office in the first floor of the County Building located at:

1504 - 3rd Avenue
Rock Island, IL

Judges are available for wedding ceremonies taking place at the Rock Island County Courthouse by appointment only. The fee is $10 and must be paid in cash. Contact the Court Administrator's Office at 309-558 3259 to schedule an appointment.

2. I have been selected to report for jury duty. How was my name selected?: Potential jurors' names are selected from a list derived by the Illinois Secretary of State from a combination of Driver's License, Voter Registration and Identification card records. View Frequently Asked Questions about jury duty.

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Eviction Diversion Program (EDP)

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1. What happens if we agree to settle our case?: Most Eviction Diversion Program (EDP) agreements result in a final settlement order called a “Dismissal With Prejudice Pursuant To Settlement Agreement.” This Order is approved by the landlord and tenant, and then presented to the court for approval. When the order is entered by the court it is a binding court order and must be followed by both parties. If the landlord and tenant complete the requirements they placed in the settlement order, the case is dismissed and no judgment is entered against the tenant. If the tenant fails to pay the agreed amount or follow the order at a later date (for example, move out when agreed to), the landlord can request that the Court enter a Judgment and allow for the eviction of the tenant.

2. What happens if we do not agree to settle our case?: If the landlord and tenant cannot reach a settlement during the mediation session, the case will be heard by the Judge, as was done in the past. The Court may hold such hearings online or in person. The Judge will decide whether the tenant can be evicted by the landlord and what amounts of money are owed, if any.

3. What is Eviction Diversion?: The Rock Island County Eviction Diversion Program (EDP) provides tenants and landlords with the opportunity to resolve eviction cases without the need for a trial before the Judge. All eviction cases at this time have access to mediation services provided by volunteer court-certified mediators and an eligibility assessment for emergency services and financial assistance with Project NOW and the Salvation Army. Tenants that are income-eligible may also have the opportunity to seek a legal consultation with an attorney from Prairie State Legal Services, Inc. There is no cost charged to the landlord or tenant for these services.

4. What will happen?: The landlord and tenant will attend the first return hearing as scheduled in the Eviction Summons (PDF). If you receive this Eviction Diversion Program Flyer (PDF) with your Court documents please see the Summons or Eviction Summons (PDF) for dates and times of your appearance. The Judge will decide if the case is appropriate for mediation prior to being scheduled for trial. The mediator will either meet with the parties that day or on a later date and facilitate settlement negotiations between the landlord and tenant. Parties will have an opportunity to negotiate settlement of rental amounts owed, repair issues, possible move out dates, or other concerns raised in the eviction case. All mediators in this program have completed the necessary certificate on training.

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Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

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1. What costs are associated with GIS data?: Prices for GIS data vary. View our GIS pricing guide (PDF). If you would like additional information or costs associated with available maps and date, please contact a GIS staff member at 309-558-3772 or by emailing Josh Boudi.

2. What does the GIS Department do?: The Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Department is responsible for the development, maintenance, integration and training of GIS software applications and data layers. Primary duties include maintaining tax parcel maps, assigning new property addresses, developing internet mapping applications and creating a wide range of customized maps. Programming and maintenance of the County's website is also handled within the GIS Department.

3. What is GIS?: A Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is a computer-based tool for mapping and analyzing things that exist and events that happen on earth. GIS allows integration of all types of data based on the geographic component of the data. GIS technology combines common database operations such as query and statistical analysis with unique visualization and geographic analysis benefits. GIS is a powerful tool for governments and businesses to make informed decisions based on the "big picture" of related data. GIS is not an automated decision making system, but a tool to query, analyze, and map data in support of the decision making process.

4. What type of information / data is available from the GIS Department?: Some common data layers used by Geographic Information Systems (GIS) include parcels, streets, zoning, land-use, census data, soils, taxing districts and aerial photography. Commonly requested maps include fire protection districts, voter precinct boundaries, traffic and crime statistics, zoning boundaries and parcel overlays with aerial photography.

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Highway Department

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1. Are County maps available to the public?: Yes. County maps were updated in July of 2003 and are available at the Rock Island County Highway Department at no charge.

2. How does the County determine when to resurface a highway?: The County has a five, ten, and twenty-year plan which is updated each year. Each County Highway is given a rating based on the condition of the road and the County Highways with the worst rating are given top priority.

3. How do I find out where the right-of-way is located on my property?

If you don't know exactly where the right-of-way line is, contact the appropriate highway authority. The right-of-way on state and county roads are usually well documented, but township roads often times are not. However, the individual Township Road Commissioner's can usually tell you where it is.

Before doing anything within the right-of-way, please contact the appropriate highway authority!

4. How do I obtain Entrance Access to a County Highway?: When a property owner wants to construct an entrance from their property to the County Highway the first step is to contact the Highway Department requesting an entrance permit. You will be required to identify the location with stakes and/or marking paint. A representative from the Highway Department will inspect the site to determine if the necessary sight distance exists on the County Highway and will determine what size of culvert, if any, is needed under the entrance. If the location is acceptable a permit will be mailed along with a typical drawing on how to construct the entrance to the Highway Department specifications. Once the entrance is constructed the permit shall be signed, dated and returned to the Highway Department. A representative will inspect the new entrance to determine if it was built according to the Department specifications, failure to do so will result in the Highway Department rebuilding the driveway, to the specifications, and the cost of doing so will be charged to the owner. There is no fee associated with the driveway access permit.

5. I am going to install a new mailbox, what type do you recommend?: We recommend a metal box on a 4 by 4 inch wood post. The post must be made of breakaway material (Permanent fixtures are prohibited). From past experience the designer plastic mailboxes do not hold up well when hit with snow thrown from a plow.

6. I live on a Rock Island County Highway and my mailbox was knocked down by a snowplow, who do I contact?: You can contact the Rock Island County Highway Department at 309-787-4668. If it is determined that a County snowplow did indeed knock down your mailbox the Highway Department will replace the mailbox with a U.S. Postal Department regulation metal box on a 4 by 4 inch wood post.

7. I noticed a dead deer lying on the road, who should I contact?: Dead animals on the roadway can often times be a hazard to the traveling public. If a large dead animal (a large dog, deer, etc.) is lying on the roadway and is creating a hazardous situation to drivers, you should call 911. If the animal is lying off to the side of the road and is not creating a hazardous situation, please contact the appropriate highway authority that has jurisdiction of that road. The highway departments should all have answering machines so that you can leave a message describing the location of the animal if it is after hours.

8. Who do I notify if there is a road hazard on a county road?: Often times hazardous conditions develop on public roads such as trees or limbs falling on the roadway, debris falling off of trucks, roads are washed out during heavy rainfall, water on the road, etc. If a potentially hazardous condition exists on a road you should contact the Sheriff's Department at 309-794-9111 who will then notify the appropriate highway authority.

9. Who is responsible for maintenance of the roads?

There are basically four different highway authorities that have maintenance responsibilities within Rock Island County. Listed are the highway authorities along with the general jurisdictional responsibility:

City of Village: Is responsible for all public streets within the corporate limits except any State or county roads within the corporate limits.
County: Is responsible for all county roads which, in general, consist of main collector routes. County roads can also exist within the corporate limits of a city of village.
State: Is responsible for all marked and unmarked state routes and interstates. State roads can exist within the corporate limits of a city or village.
Township (Road District): Is responsible for all township roads within a given township. Roads on township lines may be the responsibility of either of the adjacent townships and it may change from one section to another. Township roads cannot exist within the corporate limits of a city or village. Therefore, if the corporate limits of a road is adjacent to or included within any part of the right-of-way that road is the maintenance responsibility of the city or village.

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Home - FAQs

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1. How do I pay my city water bill?: Answer goes here...

2. How do I get a new trash can lid?: Answer goes here...

3. How do I apply for a job with the City?: Answer goes here...

4. My trash didn't get picked up, what should I do now?: Answer goes here...

5. How do I get a garage sale permit?: Answer goes here...

6. How can I see the agenda for an upcoming City Council or Board meeting?: Answer goes here...

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Jury Duty

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1. What is the role of the Jury Coordinator?

The Jury Coordinator is responsible for the assemblage of juries for the circuit courts. This responsibility includes:

the summoning and tracking of jurors
acting as a liaison between the court and prospective jurors in an effort to avoid the imposition of any undue hardships on the jurors, but at the same time ensuring that jurors are available to serve as needed by the court
maintaining juror records
processing juror payrolls

For orientation, the Jury Coordinator will offer a brief presentation answering any questions prospective jurors may have prior to the commencement of their service.

2. Where is the Jury Coordinator located?

The Jury Coordinator is located in Rock Island County courthouse, 1317 3rd Avenue., Rock Island, IL on the third floor in Room 304. The Coordinator may be reached by phone at 309-558-3260.

For the convenience of the public, summons are mailed approximately five (5) weeks prior to the reporting date. This allows ample time to make necessary arrangements for babysitters, doctor's appointments, work schedules, transportation, etc.

3. Who can serve?

The basic requirements to be qualified as a juror are as follows:

At least 18 years of age
Citizen of the United States
Legal resident of Illinois and Rock Island County
Not under prosecution for any crime
Possess a valid Illinois Driver's License, Illinois identification card, or Voter's Registration Card
Have been convicted of a felony and have had your civil rights restored

4. Where can I receive general information?: Rock Island County uses a telephone call-in system. A recorded telephone message provides jurors with general information about jury service. Call 309-786-0003 or 309-786-0039 the Friday after 4:30 pm preceding the jury week you are to serve for this information.

5. How did I get selected for jury duty?: Potential jurors' names are randomly selected from a list derived by the Illinois Secretary of State from a combination of Driver's License, Voter Registration and Identification card records.

6. Do I still need to report?

Jurors are instructed to call a recorded message for instructions prior to reporting. This message is updated prior to the report date to assure that jurors do not report unnecessarily. This procedure has consistently resulted in savings to the county, as well as in eliminating unnecessary inconvenience for the juror.

Please call 309-786-0003 or 309-786-0039 the night before (after 5 pm) you are to report even if this is a Sunday or holiday. A recorded message will tell you whether you still need to report. The message will refer to a range of juror numbers, so please have your summons in hand when calling. Persons using a rotary telephone must call between 8 am to 4:30 pm Monday through Friday.

Unless otherwise notified, please report to jury duty as directed by your printed summons. Please arrive on time.

7. How long will I be there?: Your term of service may be as short as half a day or up to a week or more depending on the type of case being heard. A person who was summoned and who reported as a prospective juror is exempt from jury service for one year from the last day of service.

8. Is everyone required to serve?

Yes.

Mandatory - Disqualification

Convicted felon, civil rights not restored
Under prosecution for any crime
No longer residing in Rock Island County
Not a U. S. citizen
Must be able to read and understand English

It is not necessary to contact our office to see if you have been excused.

9. May I be excused for personal reasons?: Extraordinary requests for excusal or postponement will be submitted to the judge for individual review at the time of trial.

10. Will I get paid?: You are entitled to $10 per day of service, plus mileage.

11. Where do I park?: Parking lots South of the Justice Center on 3rd Avenue.

12. What type of clothing is appropriate?: Business attire is appropriate. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Courtrooms are air-conditioned. For your comfort, you may wish to bring a sweater or a light jacket.

13. What do I do if I need special accommodations?

If you are a person with a disability requiring any accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact the Jury Coordinator within two (2) working days of your receipt of the jury summons.

Please call 309-786-0003 or 309-786-0039 after 5 pm, the night before you are to report, even if this is a Sunday or holiday. A recorded message will tell you whether you still need to report. The message will refer to your juror number, so please have your summons in hand when calling.

14. What is a petit jury?: A petit jury is a criminal or civil trial.

15. What is a grand jury?

A grand jury has broad powers to investigate a wide range of criminal offenses and to examine the performance of public officials and public institutions. Its deliberations are conducted in secret, in conjunction with the State Attorney or a designated Assistant State's Attorney. The grand jury consists of members who serve a two-month term of duty with the court. If there is sufficient evidence, person(s) indicted and charged with a crime will appear before a judge.

Grand jurors' names are selected from the same source list as petit jurors. They are paid on the same basis as trial jurors.

16. What is a coroner's jury?: A coroner's jury is a group comprised of six people who serve to assist in determining the manner of an individual's death such as via accident, suicide, natural causes, etc. The coroner's jury hears testimony at a coroner's inquest regarding the circumstances of a case(s) from which they make a determination of the manner of death. Those individuals selected for service on the coroner's jury serve a two-month period of time through which period they are called as needed depending upon the necessity of a coroner's inquest. For more information about a coroner's jury or inquest, please see the Rock Island County Coroner's page.

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Orders of Protection

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1. Are there any filing or service charges to get an Order of Protection?: Illinois law states there is no filing fee with the Court or fee to serve the Abuser/Respondent the Order of Protection by the Sheriff. There also should be no charge for certifying the Order.

2. In which County should I file for an Order of Protection?

If you are filing for an Order of Protection (OP) in Civil Court, you should file a Petition for an Order of Protection in one of the following:

The county where you live, or
The county where the abuser lives, or
The county where the abuse happened, or
The county you had to flee to seek shelter.

3. What happens when the Order of Protection is violated?: A violation occurs when the abuser/respondent commits further abuse or trespasses on any property where forbidden to by the Order of Protection (OP). The abuser can be arrested and may be subject to jail and/or a fine. Even if an arrest is not made, the Victim/Petitioner can contact the State’s Attorneys Office regarding the violation. Violations of an order may be considered contempt of court and may result in fine or imprisonment.

4. What will happen in the Order of Protection process?

An Order of Protection can be filled out by yourself, with your attorney or if applicable, with a domestic violence advocate. You will be asked to list the most recent Obtain a Petition for an Order of Protection from the Clerk’s Office at the County Courthouse. The forms act of abusive or threatening behavior and any history of such behavior. You should describe in detail any injuries you received, any weapons used and if anyone else was present, including children. You will be asked to provide information about the Abuser/Respondent, including an address and birth date.

Go through all the remedies listed on the Petition and choose the ones that will address safety for you and your children. A judge will read your petition, ask you some questions and grant or deny the Order of Protection. If the judge grants the Emergency Order of Protection (EOP), the EOP is not in effect until the Abuser/Respondent is served with the Order.

A hearing will be held approximately 2 to 3 weeks after the EOP was granted at which time the court will decide whether to grant or deny a Plenary Order of Protection. The court will also determine how long the order will be in effect; a Plenary Order of Protection can be valid for up to two years. The Plenary Order may be modified or terminated during the time period it is in place. The Order can be extended by the judge after it expires if the abuse continued during the two-year period.

5. Where do I get an Order of Protection?

A Victim/Petitioner applies for an Order of Protection at the appropriate County Courthouse. There are three ways to obtain an Order of Protection:

Criminal Court
Civil Court in an action by itself
Civil Court in connection with a divorce, child support, parentage or other civil case

If a Victim/Petitioner is seeking an order of protection on their own (option #3) she/he may be eligible for support and assistance from the following agencies at no charge (You may also contact one of the resources to help you with the forms and process), view a list of Order of Protection resources.

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Rental Assistance Program

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1. Landlords and Tenants: Do you have questions about Mediation?: See the Eviction Toolkit (PDF) and Mediation Information For Self-Represented Tenants & Landlords in Rock Island County on the County website.

2. Landlords and Tenants: Is there rent owed?

Your case may qualify for rental assistance:

3. Tenants: Do you need to consult with an attorney about your eviction case?

Before your hearing contact:

Prairie State Legal Services, Inc.
Phone: 309-794-1328
Prairie State Legal Services Website

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Small Claims

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1. Can corporations sue, or be sued, and how do they defend themselves?: No. A Corporation may appear as a claimant, assignee, subrogee or counter - claimant in a small claims proceeding, unless represented by an attorney. When the amount claimed does not exceed $1,500.00, a corporation may defend as defendant any small claims proceeding in any court of this State through any officer, director, manager, department manager or supervisor of the corporation as though such corporation was appearing in its proper person. For the purpose of this rule, the term "officer" means the president, vice-president, registered agent or other person vested with the responsibility of managing the affairs of the corporation. (Supreme Court Rule 282(b), effective August 1, 1987).

2. How do you file a Small Claims Complaint?: If you file a Small Claims suit, you are called the plaintiff. If you have been sued in the Small Claims Court, you are called the defendant. In order to begin a Small Claims action, you must file a complaint with the Clerk of the Circuit Court. The complaint is a form which explains who you are suing, where the person lives, how much money they owe you and why they owe you the money. The complaint is signed by the plaintiff and the statement is sworn to before a notary public or Clerk of the Court. You must list the defendant's exact name and address. The Clerk is not able to help you find that out.

3. How do you respond to a small claims complaint?: If you have been sued in Small Claims, you and/or your attorney must appear on the return date set forth in the summons. The Court will hear the case on the return date or it may set the case for trial at a later date.

4. What court date should I set?

When you file your suit, the clerk will provide you with the pre-trial date. If at pre-trial, the claim is contested, the case will be set for trial at a later date. Once a trial date is scheduled it may only be continued by a judge or if it is settled, a dismissal will remove it from the schedule. If the defendant does not appear, it may be that he/she was not served with the complaint and summons.

If this is the case, then you must prepare an Alias Summons and in most cases, it will then be necessary to have the Sheriff serve the Alias Summons. An Alias Summons will cost $5.00. The plaintiff and/or the plaintiff's attorney must always appear on the summons return date, regardless of whether or not service has been made. (Failure to appear may result in the case being dismissed for want of prosecution).

5. What do I do before the trial?

Before the trial you should prepare your case so you can make a clear and understandable presentation to the Judge. You should bring any papers, pictures or other physical objects which have something to do with your case and show them to the Judge. To help you organize your thoughts it may be beneficial to write down the facts of the case ahead of your court date. If you have time, observe a small claims court session before the date of your hearing. You may also bring witnesses to testify in support of your case. A witness is someone who can help explain why you should win the case. Make sure that your witness shows up on the exact date and time for the trial. If a witness is necessary for your case and is reluctant to come to court, you may need to have a subpoena issued. (This is a order of the Court commanding a person to appear and testify at a trial.) In order for a subpoena to be legal you must advance the statutory witness fee and mileage to and from the courthouse at the time of service on the witness.

Be sure to remember the exact date and time of your court date and be on time. If you fail to appear for the trial, you may lose the case.

6. What happens after the judgment is collected?: Once a judgment has been collected, you should obtain a satisfaction/release of judgment form from our forms page. This form needs to be filled out, signed, and filed with the Court. You should also mail a copy of the form to the defendant.

7. What happens after the trial?: If you are the plaintiff, and the judge decides in your favor, the judge can order the person you have sued to pay you the money that is owed. The judge's decision in the case is called a judgment. If the Court has awarded a judgment in your favor, you should ask the defendant to pay you immediately. If the defendant is not present, you should let them know that a judgment has been awarded to you and request that they pay you.

8. What happens at the trial?: A trial in the Small Claims Court is a simple and somewhat informal court hearing during which the Judge listens to both parties as well as their witnesses and examines any physical objects or documents that they have brought and then decides the case. The plaintiff and his/her witness go first, followed by the defendant any witnesses he or she may have. If the defendant fails to appear for trial, the Judge may award judgment for the plaintiff. If the plaintiff fails to appear, the case may be dismissed. When testifying, try not to be nervous and speak slowly and speak so the Court can hear you. The Judge may ask questions; if so, answer them as clearly and directly as you can.

9. What happens if the case is settled before the court date?: If you and the defendant(s) reach an agreement on how much they are going to pay that is called a settlement. If you receive your settlement money before the court date, you must come to court prior to the court date or on the court date to have case the dismissed. If the case has been settled but you have not received your money, you should come to court and ask the judge to continue the case until you have received your money. Once you receive your money, you must come to court to have your case dismissed.

10. What happens if the defendant does not pay the judgment?

If the defendant refuses to pay you the money you were awarded in the judgment, you must begin collection proceedings against him or her. Neither the Court nor the Clerk will collect the money for you.

If you know where the defendant is employed, collection proceedings may be done with a wage deduction summons. If you know where the defendant has bank accounts, collection may be done with a non-wage garnishment summons. The parties to whom you direct the Wage Deduction Summons or Non-Wage Garnishment Summons must file a sworn answer with the Circuit Clerk's Office. After that document has been filed, you must appear in court and the Court will then enter a Judgment against the garnishee (defendant) for the amount shown in the sworn return and give you a turn over order. A certified copy of this order should be sent to the garnishee. You may use this step as often as necessary for the collection of the total judgment awarded plus the additional costs.

If you do not know where the defendant works, has bank accounts, or owns property, you may have the Clerk issue a citation to discover assets. This requires the defendant to appear in court where he/she will be placed under oath and must answer questions from you concerning employment, locations of banking accounts and other sources of income, as well as property he or she may own.

The Circuit Clerk's Office is able to provide you with the necessary forms for the collection of a judgment. Post judgement collection forms can be found at Illinois Courts website. Any additional costs of collection can be added to the amount recoverable from the defendant, but if the defendant is truly without assets, you may end up wasting additional money. Make sure that the person you are suing has assets, income or property before you file your complaint.

11. What if the defendant (the person you are suing) is a corporation?: If the defendant is a corporation, you must serve an officer of the corporation or its registered agent. You may also obtain this information by calling the Corporate Search Department of the Illinois Secretary of State at 312-793-3380. Remember that often people are employees of someone else, another person or a corporation, and it may be that their employer is the one responsible for you claim. So, always be sure to sue the right party.

12. What is Small Claims Court?: The Small Claims Court is specifically designed to hear court cases involving claims of $10,000.00 or less.

13. Where do I file the complaint?

Before filing the complaint, you should make sure that the defendant has money, income, or property so that if the Judge decides in your favor, your judgment will be collectible. If you win your case, the judge may award you the costs of bringing the suit as well as the money you are seeking.

You should also make sure that you are suing the proper party. If you have any questions, it is generally inexpensive to consult an attorney before filing your complaint.

Generally speaking, complaints must be filed in the county where one of the defendants live or in the county in which the incident, transaction, or part of either took place. You must file the complaint with the Clerk of the Circuit Court within that county. You must then serve the defendant with the complaint and a summons.

If the defendant resides or is located within Rock Island County, certified mail may be used for service. If the defendant lives outside of Rock Island County, you may be allowed to sue him or her in Rock Island County, but they must be served by the sheriff of the county where they live.

Our Illinois Constitution prohibits a judge from putting a person in jail for a non-willful failure to pay a debt. Therefore, if a person does not have money, income, or property, there is no legal way for the court to help you get the money owed to you. It is wise to make sure a judgment can be collected before paying the costs of filing a lawsuit.

14. Where do I get the forms I need to file a Small Claims Complaint?: The forms you need to file a Small Claims Complaint can be obtained from the Circuit Clerk's Office, located on the 1^st floor of the Justice Center. You can pick them up or they can be mailed to you if you provide a self addressed stamped envelope to the Clerk of the Court with a request for the forms. You may also download the form from our Court Forms page.

15. Where is it located?: The Small Claims Court is located in the Rock Island County Justice Center, 1317 3^rd Avenue, Rock Island, Illinois. Ask a bailiff or deputy for directions, if necessary.

16. Who can use Small Claims Court?

Anyone can file a lawsuit in the Small Claims Court if the amount claimed is not more than $10,000.00. If someone owes you money or has damaged you in some way for not more than $10,000.00, you can file a lawsuit in the Small Claims Court.

If you choose to act as your own attorney or self-represented, you must do all the investigation and preparation normally done by an attorney. This includes representing yourself in Court, securing witnesses, collecting documents, photographs and any other items you will need to present your case before the Court. The Judge and the Clerk must remain neutral in all disputes. They are not permitted to assist you in accomplishing any of the steps.

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State's Attorney

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1. As a victim or complainant, must I be present at all court hearings?: While a victim or complainant is welcome to attend all court hearings relative to their case, attendance is only required upon receipt of written notice such as a Notice or Subpoena. Please feel free to phone us with any questions you may have at 309-558-3250.

2. As a defendant, must I be present at all court hearings?: A defendant must appear for all court hearings scheduled.

3. If I am the victim of a crime, how do I go about getting criminal charges brought up against someone?: If you are the victim of a crime, the police in the jurisdiction where the crime occurred must be contacted first. The police will make a determination upon investigating the incident whether a crime has occurred and if so, whether it appears that probable cause exists. Commonly, the police will document the incident in a report. Whether our office gets involved depends upon the existence of probable cause and the facts of the incident. If the facts appear to support that a crime has occurred, the police will either provide you the information necessary to contact our office or they will bring the matter to our attention directly from which we will examine the merits of the case and determine whether criminal charges should be filed.

4. A situation occurred, the police responded, and I was informed that I needed to contact your office to schedule an appointment to come in to file charges. Why won't the police take care of this?: At times, an offense occurs where the only witness to an offense is the victim. Without the presence of evidence or the testimony of an external witness, the case is solely based upon the victim's statement. Other times, we may have questions about the case. In these cases, we wish to meet with the victim and discuss the case. In situations where probable cause is found to exist, the victim bears the burden of presenting the factual basis to a judge while under oath.

5. I accepted a personal check that was returned. How do I get my money?: The Rock Island County Bad Check Restitution Program processes all bad checks accepted in Rock Island County. They will attempt to resolve the matter on your behalf, however, the case may ultimately require your follow up either through Small Claims Court or our office if the case meets the criteria for criminal prosecution. For more information, visit the website or call 309-558-3234.

6. I hired someone to perform a number of repairs for me and I paid them a deposit for the materials up front, however the work was never completed. What do I do?: Consumer fraud is addressed by the Illinois Attorney General's Office. They may be contacted at 800-243-0618. This office also addresses many other consumer affairs.

7. I have had many problems with one of my tenants and he has not paid the rent in two months. How do I evict this person?: Eviction is a civil matter and one not addressed by our office. You may wish to contact a private attorney for guidance.

8. I have a criminal conviction from years ago that I would like to get taken off my record. How do I go about getting this done?: Any misdemeanor crime that resulted in a disposition of Court Supervision may be expunged. All other convictions must be pardoned by the Governor. Our office does not have any involvement in this process and you may wish to contact your private attorney for assistance.

9. My spouse has moved out and tells me that he/she wants a divorce. What are my rights regarding our common property such as the house and cars?: Divorce is a civil matter and one not addressed by our office. You may wish to contact a private attorney for further information.

10. My ex and I have no formal agreement about visitation of our son. Recently, my ex has been keeping our son for longer periods of time than I feel comfortable and he/she has become more and more unreas: Child visitation matters are of a civil nature. You may wish to contact a private attorney for information on how to address child visitation matters.

11. I have an Order of Protection against my ex, however I no longer feel he/she is a threat and I would like to have the Order lifted. Must I formally deal with this in court, or can I just ignore the Or: Do not ignore the order for you may be held in contempt of court should you do something contradictory to remedies listed in the order. You must appear in court in order to pursue getting the order modified or dismissed. For more information about this procedure, you may call the Domestic Violence Victim's Assistant at 309-558-3298.

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Traffic Division

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1. Can I look up my fines or court dates online?: You can visit the Court Records Search page, enter your name and click search. We also have public access terminals available in our Self-Represented Litigant Center for your convenience to access electronic court files.

2. Can I pay my ticket before my court date?: Sure, please allow 10 to 14 days from the date you received your ticket.

3. How do I know when my court date is?: If you received a citation, the officer will indicate the court date at the bottom of the citation. You may also review your case information online. You also may have received a notice in the mail indicating a court date.

4. How much is my fine for a traffic violation? And do I have to appear in court?: On or after July 1st, 2019, all may appear traffic tickets issued are $164.00 including seatbelt violations if you pay at our counter or online. If your ticket was issued prior to July 1, 2019 the prices are as follows if you pay at our counter or online. If you received a speeding ticket going not more than 20 mph over the speed limit, the cost is $120.00. If you were going 21 to 25 mph over the speed limit, the cost is $140.00. If you were driving over 26 mph or more over the limit, it is a must appear ticket. All other may appear tickets are $120.00, seatbelt tickets are $60.00. If your ticket is marked court appearance required you will need to appear in court. If you have a may appear ticket but appear in court the price changes to a minimum fine of $25.00, an assessment of $226.00 and any conditional assessments ordered by the court.

5. I have a question about the status of my Illinois Drivers License?

Please call the Secretary of State’s Office; toll free at 800-252-8980 or visit the local Department of Motor Vehicles at,

2001 Fifth Street
Suite 10
Silvis, IL 61282

Phone: 309-796-0934

6. I have a warrant for my arrest, what do I do?: Please report to court Monday through Friday at 8:30 am (except Wednesdays) or turn yourself into the Rock Island County Jail as soon as possible.

7. I need to setup payments to pay off my fine, what do I do?: You need to see our Payment Hearing officer. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 12:30 pm. If you miss your appointment, you will have to go to court and ask the Judge to be scheduled again to see the payment hearing officer.

8. What are my options to pay my ticket?: Our Payments and Collections page contains all the information to make your payment or additional information if your case(s) were already referred to a collection agency.

9. What if I am making a regular monthly payment?

If you are making a monthly payment, please visit Judici website, go to the Payments and Collections page on our website. You may also pay by mail using check or money order to the Traffic Division,

1317 3rd Avenue
Suite 101
Rock Island, IL 61201

Use our drop box located outside of the Justice Center or drop your payment in the mail. Don’t forget to add case number and contact information on any payment methods, other than cash. For additional information, please see our Payments and Collections page.

10. Where are you located?

We are located at:

Rock Island County Justice Center
1317 3rd Avenue
Suite 101
Rock Island, Illinois

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Treasurer's Office - Escrow Accounts

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1. Can a mortgage company pay a property owner's property tax?: Yes. Usually at closing, the buyer and lender agree to set up an escrow account for that purpose. The bank estimates what taxes will be due and adds the necessary amount to your mortgage payment. When the taxes are due, the bank should pay the installment on your behalf.

2. Who gets the property tax bills?: It is important that the property owners see where their taxes are going and see that they receive all exemptions available to them. For these reasons, bills are usually sent to the owners. If the mortgage company requests the original billing, they must mail a copy of the tax statement to their borrowers within 15 days of their receipt of the bill. Thru various methods arranged between the mortgage companies and the Treasurer's Office, mortgage companies receive records of tax payments due for their customers.

3. Are there risks to paying through a mortgage company?: Yes. Sometimes both the company and the homeowner pay the taxes. If you are not sure whether you are paying taxes through your mortgage escrow, call the lender. Do not double-pay. A company also may fail to pay the taxes or may pay on the wrong parcel number. For these reasons, you should check the payment status of your property taxes to confirm that the company has made a payment after each installment is due.

4. What if neither the mortgage company nor the homeowner pays the taxes?: Taxes and penalties are still due. If payment is delayed too long, delinquent taxes could be offered for sale, which could result in loss of property. If you are current on escrow and the company fails to pay on time or on the correct parcel number, state and federal laws require the lender to pay any late penalties or fees. Your escrow account should also be reimbursed by the company for any money removed from your escrow that is paid on the wrong parcel number.

5. How can the owner avoid such problems?

Homeowners must stay aware of their property-tax payment status by checking with the mortgage company. When a tax installment is due, a homeowner should verify the parcel number with the company to make sure the correct property taxes are to be paid.

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Treasurer's Office - Tax Sale

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1. When does the annual tax sale take place?: The annual tax sale will take place on Thursday, December 28, 2023 in the County Board room on the Third Floor of the Rock Island County Office Building which is located at 1504 Third Avenue in Rock Island, Illinois. The sale will begin at approximately 9 am.

2. Why does Rock Island County have an annual tax sale?: The annual tax sale - legally mandated and governed by state law - is part of the Illinois property tax system. In Illinois, the property tax is the single largest source of local taxes. Selling taxes helps the various taxing bodies (schools, villages, parks, townships, libraries, public health and safety agencies, etc.) meet their financial commitments. For property owners, the financial consequence of having property taxes sold generally exceeds the cost of paying the tax. If a property owner's taxes are sold, fees and costs rise substantially. The combination of the high cost of redemption and the potential of losing property is the enforcement mechanism that Illinois employs-and that other states employ with similar methods. If taxes are sold, the taxing agencies receive the full amount of taxes due from the successful tax buyer, plus county penalties and a number of county fees that have been established by state law for meeting the costs of conducting tax sales. The delinquent tax portion of the money is distributed to local taxing bodies and is available for their budgetary needs. When taxpayers eventually redeem taxes, their funds reimburse the tax buyers. If the taxpayer fails to redeem, the certificate of tax purchase may be used to seek a tax deed or can be sold to another party who may pursue a tax deed.

3. How is the Annual Tax Sale initiated?

There are a number of required steps leading up to the Annual Tax Sale:

The Treasurer publishes the delinquency lists in various newspapers.
The published notice provides information as to when the Treasurer will apply to the Circuit Court for judgment to begin a tax sale. The published notice also contains the date, time and place the Treasurer plans to hold the sale.
The Treasurer makes application to the Circuit Court for judgment and order of sale.
The Court rules on any objections, and then orders the sale to commence on the date previously published, or within five business days of that date.

4. Who runs the tax sale?: The Treasurer's Office runs the annual tax sale. The Clerk's Office also has an official role in recording the transactions in the Annual Tax Judgment, Sale, Redemption and Forfeiture Record. The Clerk's Office has the primary role in post-sale activities relating to notice of sale, tax searches, payment of other delinquencies, and all of the steps leading up to a petition for tax deed.

5. What is a tax buyer?: A tax buyer is a registered and qualified bidder at the tax sale, and is the legal entity to which Certificates of Purchase will be issued on successful bids. Registered tax buyers can be a partnership, a limited liability partnership (LLP), a corporation (LLC), a charitable organization (501(c)(3)), or an individual.

6. How long may a property owner wait to pay to avoid sale?: The last day to pay Rock Island County Real Estate Taxes in person will be December 28, 2022. If paid by mail, the payment must be received by 8:30 am on Thursday morning, December 29, 2022.

7. Do delinquent taxpayers have to pay costs of the certified delinquent notice or of publication?: Yes. By state law, there is a $10 publication fee on top of any late penalties due.

8. After the list has been published, where can it be viewed?: The delinquency list is available for public inspection in the Treasurer's Office. Copies are also available for sale through the Treasurer's Office for $100 per list, after notices have been published in area newspapers.

9. How does bidding work?: Unlike most other auctions, the annual sale is a strange auction because bids are not made in cash amounts and taxes are not sold to the highest bidder. The bidding process is designed to ensure that taxpayer/owners will be able to redeem their taxes at the lowest possible interest rate. When a taxpayer redeems their taxes from a tax buyer, they pay the amount paid by the tax buyer at the sale, plus interest. At the annual tax sale, it is on this rate of interest that tax buyers bid. The person who bids the lowest rate of interest (between 0% and 18%) will win a bid. The amount of money to be paid for the lien on taxes is not in question at the annual tax sale: the tax buyer must always pay the entirety of the delinquent taxes, along with costs and interest.

10. Where and when can tax buyers register?: Tax buyers can register in the Treasurer's Office. Registration begins approximately ninety (90) days before the sale commences and ends ten business days prior to tax sale date.

11. What are the registration requirements?

In order to register for the annual sale, tax buyers must present the Rock Island County Treasurer's Office with the following at least 10 business days before the sale:

Name
Address
Phone Number
Tax Identification Number or Social Security Number
Complete and turn in Tax Sale Registration Form (PDF)

12. Can a tax buyer register multiple entities which can each bid at the tax sale?: There is a “Related Bidding Entry” rule that limits to 3; those bidding entities from simultaneously participating in the sale. The reason for this is so that the same entity does not have more than three bidders at the same time, thus increasing the likelihood of its obtaining a parcel in the auction. Essentially, a related bidding entity is a tax buyer who has an ownership interest or contractual relationship with any other registrant at the tax sale. Participants can only submit one registration, per FEIN Number. The determination of whether registered entities are related, must be self-disclosed on the registration form. Enforcement is at the discretion of the Rock Island County Treasurer.

13. Are there people who are prohibited from bidding in the tax sale?: The County Officer Property Sale Act prohibits Rock Island County employees, their employees, their relatives (spouse or child), and their representatives from all tax sales: “No county officer, and no person employed by, or who is a relative or representative of, any county officer in the State of Illinois, while in office or holding office or while in such office or employment, shall have, possess or acquire any pecuniary interest, directly, indirectly or beneficially, or by any derivative process, in any real estate tax forfeiture or foreclosure in the county in which such county officer presides, other than the fee provided by law for the official duties of any such county officer in such proceedings. For purposes of this Section "relative" shall be defined as a spouse or child, or the spouse of a child, including a child by adoption.” Violation of this provision is a class B misdemeanor. Aside from these restrictions, and the restrictions naturally implied by the registration process (e.g., the sale is restricted to people who have completed applications within the appropriate time frame), bidding is relatively unrestricted.

14. Does the tax buyer have to buy subsequent delinquent taxes, that is taxes which become delinquent after the sale?: The tax buyer does not have to purchase the subsequent taxes. It is necessary to do so, however, in order to proceed to tax deed.

15. What does the tax buyer who wins a bid on taxes have to pay?

In order to receive the certificate of purchase, the tax buyer must pay for the following:

The taxes, penalties, and any fees associated with the annual sale purchase. These must be paid before the close of business on the sale day

16. What additional costs are associated with an annual sale purchase?

Each annual sale purchase carries the following costs:

Publication cost of $10
Clerk cost of $4
Automation Fund Fee of $10
Collector's Tax Fee Fund $60
Indemnity Fund Fee of $20
Any additional fees due to changes in county ordinances, state law or court rulings.

17. What happens when delinquent taxes on a parcel are offered and not sold?: Delinquent property taxes that are not picked up by the buyers at the sale are sold to the Rock Island County Trustee. A tax sale to the Trustee does not actually change the legal status of the parcel; it merely signifies that the tax lien remains with Rock Island County.

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Zoning & Building Safety - Building Permits

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1. Why Do I Need A Permit?: Building permits are important in protecting your safety and the safety of those around you. Rock Island County requires permits to ensure that construction is being done properly and in accordance with all life safety requirements and all building codes. Also, the permit process provides you with protection. It ensures that you or your contractor, comply with the codes adopted by the County Board. The permit process also gives you access to qualified inspectors who can provide knowledge and guidance throughout your construction project. Rock Island County is also graded by an independent company that looks at what codes we have adopted and the process for how they are enforced. This review can have an effect on your homeowner's insurance. Failing to obtain the proper permits may complicate or cancel the sale of your home. During the home inspection or appraisal process, homeowners may have to show that the proper permits are on file. If the lending bank learns that remodeling work was done without securing permits, it may likely not qualify for the loan.

2. When Is A Permit Required?

Any owner, authorized agent or contractor who desires to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by the Rock Island County and adopted codes, or to cause any such work to be done, shall first make application to the Building Official and obtain the required permit. Building permits are required for all improvements to a property if it is located in the floodplain: there are no exemptions. If the improvement is insurable, it requires a permit.

Fees vary with the value of the work being done using contractors' bids or national averages, including labor. Persons not obtaining a permit prior to beginning a project shall be charged double. No exceptions.

The best way to find out if you need a permit is to call the Zoning and Building Department at 309-558-3771. Discuss your plans with the building inspector before you begin construction to determine whether you need a permit.

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Zoning & Building Safety - Building Safety

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1. How can I find you?: The Rock Island County Zoning and Building Office is located at 1504 Third Avenue, Rock Island IL, 61201, on the Third Floor. Office hours are from 8 to 10 am and 3 to 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday, excluding holidays. From 10 am to 3 pm office staff is in the field.

2. When is the best time to call?: The Building Inspectors' and Zoning Officials' normal office hours are between 7 and 10 am and 2:30 and 4:30 pm. Questions and permits should be made during the hours shown; otherwise, inspectors are in the field daily. Sorry for any inconvenience.

3. What information do I need to obtain a building permit for my new home?

The plans you submit should have enough detail to allow someone with absolutely no knowledge of your project to be able to go build your project. Here are a few things you should have:

Approval from Environmental Health, a division of the Rock Island County Health Department for a Septic System.
A site Layout, Which is a simple drawing of where the structure will be located on the property, showing rough distances from property lines. The homeowner can do this; it does not need to be done by an architect.
Two sets of blueprints.
Engineered truss drawings, with a stamp from an Illinois-licensed engineer.
A list of contractors (ex. Plumbing, Electrical, HVAC, etc
Erosion control plan
ResCheck, ComCheck, or equivalent method

4. How do I get an address for my new home?

The Rock Island County Geographic Information System (GIS) Department assigns all addresses within unincorporated areas. The Department will need a site layout showing property boundaries, where your driveway lies in relation to the main road and if your home is visible from the road. (Under most circumstances, you can usually obtain your address the same day you bring in your site layout).

If your new home is located within the jurisdiction of a municipality, you will need to contact that municipality to obtain an address.

5. Can I do the repair work or build my own home?: A homeowner can do the work on their home, but we do require proof of liability insurance from contractors who would do the work.

6. Do I need a contractor's license to do work in Rock Island County?: Rock Island County does not charge a fee for contractors to be eligible to do work. We do require proof of liability insurance from all contractors. Plumbers and Roofers must be licensed with the State of Illinois.

7. How am I protected from fly-by-night contractors?: Make sure your contractor gets a building permit and you have a written contract with them. Rock Island County requires all contractors to register with the county and provide proof of liability insurance when they pull a permit. We do this to protect the homeowner in case a contractor or their employee would be injured on the homeowner's property. Please remember if your contractor does not get a permit, you could be held liable if they are injured, and you will receive no inspections to insure the work was done according to code. The State of Illinois has a Home Repair and Remodeling Act that requires contractors to provide a written contract.

8. What codes has Rock Island County adopted?: See the Codes section of the Building Safety Page.

9. Where can I get copies of these codes?

Purchase International Codes
Purchase the National Electric Code (NEC)
Check the downloads section of this department.

10. How much land do I need to build a house?: This varies depending on where the property is located. The smallest parcels may be 20,000 square feet (just shy of 1/2 acre). If you are looking at a property that is in the extreme outlying areas, Rock Island County may require a minimum of 40 acres for a building site. Your best bet is to email Greg Thorpe.

11. Do I need a Building Permit?: Permits are required for all home improvements except carpet, paint and gutters. Fees vary with the value of the work being done using national averages, including labor. Persons not obtaining a permit PRIOR to beginning a project shall be charged double. No exceptions.

12. Is Ice and Water Barrier required?: Model building codes do not require Ice and Water Barrier. Only those jurisdictions that specifically require it when they adopt their codes can require it. Rock Island County has had a history of ice damming and driving rains that allow ice and water to get under shingles. When we adopt our codes we do require a barrier. Your insurance company may require paperwork or a letter (PDF) from our office to show that we have adopted this requirement.

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Zoning & Building Safety - Flood Information

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1. What does 100-year flood mean?: The term "100-year flood" is misleading. News media has a tendency to call every minor flood a "100-year flood" even though it is not. As stated above, it is not the flood that will occur once every 100 years. Rather, it is the flood elevation that has a 1- percent chance of being equaled or exceeded each year. Thus, the 100-year flood could occur more than once in a relatively short period of time. The 100-year flood, which is the standard used by most Federal and state agencies, is used by the NFIP as the standard for floodplain management and to determine the need for flood insurance. A structure located within a special flood hazard area shown on an NFIP map has a 26 percent chance of suffering flood damage during the term of a 30-year mortgage.

2. My home is in a floodplain. Am I at high risk for flooding?: Yes. Buildings in floodplains, or Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs), are at high risk for flood damage. Some floodplains experience frequent flooding, while others are affected by only the severest of storms. As a homeowner in a floodplain, it's not so much a question of if a flood will damage your property as when. That's why the law requires you to have flood insurance. Did you know that an SFHA home has a 26% chance of being flooded over a 30-year period? That means that you're five times more likely to be damaged by a flood than a fire!

3. If I read a Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM), what are the different flood hazard zone designations and what do they mean?

Zone A

Zone A is the flood insurance rate zone that corresponds to the 100-year floodplains that are determined in the Flood Insurance Study (FIS) by approximate methods. Because detailed hydraulic analyses are not performed for such areas, no Base Flood Elevations (BFE) or depths are shown within this zone. Mandatory flood insurance purchase requirements apply.

Zone AE & A1-A30

Zones AE and A1-A30 are the flood insurance rate zones that correspond to the 100-year floodplains that are determined in the FIS by detailed methods. In most instances, BFEs derived from the detailed hydraulic analyses are shown at selected intervals within this zone. Mandatory flood insurance purchase requirements apply.

Zone AH

Zone AH is the flood insurance rate zone that corresponds to the areas of 100-year shallow flooding with a constant water-surface elevation (usually areas of ponding) where average depths are between 1 and 3 feet. The BFEs derived from the detailed hydraulic analyses are shown at selected intervals within this zone. Mandatory flood insurance purchase requirements apply.

Zone AO

Zone AO is the flood insurance rate zone that corresponds to the areas of 100-year shallow flooding (usually sheet flow on sloping terrain) where average depths are between 1 and 3 feet. The depth should be averaged along the cross section and then along the direction of flow to determine the extent of the zone. Average flood depths derived from the detailed hydraulic analyses are shown within this zone. In addition, alluvial fan flood hazards are shown as Zone AO on the FIRM. Mandatory flood insurance purchase requirements apply.

Zone AR

Zone AR is the flood insurance rate zone used to depict areas protected from flood hazards by flood control structures, such as a levee, that are being restored. FEMA will consider using the Zone AR designation for a community if the flood protection system has been deemed restorable by a Federal agency in consultation with a local project sponsor; a minimum level of flood protection is still provided to the community by the system; and restoration of the flood protection system is scheduled to begin within a designated time period and in accordance with a progress plan negotiated between the community and FEMA. Mandatory purchase requirements for flood insurance will apply in Zone AR, but the rate will not exceed the rate for unnumbered A zones if the structure is built in compliance with Zone AR floodplain management regulations.

For floodplain management in Zone AR areas, elevation is not required for improvements to existing structures. However, for new construction, the structure must be elevated (or floodproofed for non-residential structures) such that the lowest floor, including basement, is a maximum of 3 feet above the highest adjacent existing grade if the depth of the Base Flood Elevation (BFE) does not exceed 5 feet at the proposed development site. For infill sites, rehabilitation of existing structures, or redevelopment of previously developed areas, there is a 3-foot elevation requirement regardless of the depth of the BFE at the project site.

The Zone AR designation will be removed and the restored flood control system shown as providing protection from the 1% annual chance flood on the NFIP map upon completion of the restoration project and submittal of all the necessary data to FEMA.

Zone A99

Zone A99 is the flood insurance rate zone that corresponds to areas of the 100-year floodplains that will be protected by a Federal flood protection system where construction has reached specified statutory milestones. No BFEs or depths are shown within this zone. Mandatory flood insurance purchase requirements apply.

Zone D

The Zone D designation on NFIP maps is used for areas where there are possible but undetermined flood hazards. In areas designated as Zone D, no analysis of flood hazards has been conducted. Mandatory flood insurance purchase requirements do not apply, but coverage is available. The flood insurance rates for properties in Zone D are commensurate with the uncertainty of the flood risk.

Zones B, C, & X

Zones B, C, and X are the flood insurance rate zones that correspond to areas outside the 100-year floodplains, areas of 100-year sheet flow flooding where average depths are less than 1 foot, areas of 100-year stream flooding where the contributing drainage area is less than 1 square mile, or areas protected from the 100-year flood by levees. No BFEs or depths are shown within this zone.

4. What are FEMA's requirements for being removed from the 1% annual chance flood hazard area?

The Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) shows that my parcel is in the mapped floodplain, but the ground my house is on is higher. I believe I shouldn't be shown in the floodplain. What are FEMA's requirements for being removed from the 1% annual chance flood hazard area?

To be removed from the floodplain shown on the Flood Insurance Rate Map, a structure must be on land that is not subject to flooding by the 1% annual chance flood. Remember, more severe floods can and do happen, so even if your home is found to be on high ground, it may still be damaged by an extreme flood event.

If your lot or building site is on natural ground that is higher than the Base Flood Elevation shown on the FIRM, then you may request a Letter of Map Amendment (LOMA). To support your request, you will have to get a surveyor to determine the elevation of the Lowest Adjacent Grade (LAG) of your building and complete an Elevation Certificate. If the ground is higher than the Base Flood Elevation, then FEMA will issue a LOMA. With a LOMA, your lender may choose to not require flood insurance. The easiest way to file this type of LOMA is with the form MT-EZ. You may download the MT-EZ form and instructions from the downloads page.

If your home was built on fill that was placed after the FIRM was prepared, you may request a Letter of Map Revision Based on Fill (LOMR-F). As with a LOMA, you will need to get an Elevation Certificate completed by a land surveyor. If the filled ground is higher than the Base Flood Elevation, and if you do not have a basement, then FEMA may issue a LOMR-F, and your lender may choose to not require flood insurance.

5. I have lived here forever and have never been flooded. Why do I need flood insurance?

The flood hazards shown on NFIP maps are based on the best information available at the time the maps were prepared. In many areas, hydraulic and hydrologic studies were conducted to reflect the long-term projection of flood risk. Because of the infrequent occurrence of flood events and the relatively short history of the NFIP, Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs) are not based only on past flooding occurrences. The fact that a flood hasn't occurred within memory doesn't mean one won't happen soon.

The 100-year flood is a relatively rare event (1% chance in any given year), but structures located in the floodplain have a significant chance (26%) of suffering flood damage during the term of a 30-year mortgage. For these reasons, flood insurance is required as a condition of receiving Federal or federally-backed financial assistance.

6. My family has lived in our house for many years, and we had a big flood that was called the 100-year flood. We weren't damaged. So, why do I need flood insurance?

The term "100-year flood" is often incorrectly used and can be misleading. It does not mean that only one flood of that size will occur every 100 years. The term is a statement of probability that scientists and engineers use to describe how one flood compares to others that are likely to occur. Today, we use the phrase "1% annual chance flood." What it means is that there is a 1% chance of a flood of that size happening in any year. Over a 100-year period, it has a 63.5% chance of occurring. Even more surprising is that over a 30-year period (typical mortgage period) the 1% annual chance flood has a 26% chance of occurring. This means a home in the mapped flood hazard area is five times more likely to be damaged by flood than to have a major fire!

To answer your question about why you need flood insurance, you would need to look very carefully at what caused the flood and how high the water near your home rose. Because rainfall amounts are different when a storm moves across an area, a "100-year flood" may occur in some places but not others. There are many factors that can add to flooding, including debris in the waterway, small road culverts and bridges, frozen or saturated ground, and others.

If your area had a major storm and your home was not flooded, you may want to check with your community's engineering or planning office. If other areas didn't flood, it may mean that the FIRMs should be revised. You may also want to check to see if your home is eligible for a Letter of Map Amendment (LOMA) which FEMA uses when homeowners submit Elevation Certificates showing that their homes are out of the mapped floodplain. With a LOMA, your lender may choose to not require flood insurance.

7. My bank said I'm in the floodplain and I have to buy flood insurance. I don't believe it. What can I do?

If a lending institution is federally regulated or making federally backed loans, it must review the NFIP maps to determine if the building is located in a Special Flood Hazard Area. The SFHA is the area that is expected to be inundated by a 1% annual chance of flood. If the bank makes such a determination, it must require the borrower to purchase flood insurance. Please note, these determinations are purely in/out and do not involve the vertical elevation of the structure.

If you disagree with the lending institution's determination, you may request that FEMA review the lender's determination. FEMA will then review the information that the lending institution used, and issue a letter that states whether we agree with the determination. Your request must be postmarked no later than 45 days after the lending institution notifies you of the flood insurance requirement and the submittal must be complete. The request must include all of the information and fees listed in the Letter of Determination Review (LODR) information sheet. If your request is postmarked after the 45-day limit has expired, or if we do not receive all of the information within the 45-day limit, we will not be able to review the determination and the flood insurance requirement stands.

FEMA's responses to these requests are called LODRs, and offer two basic dispositions: (1) the lender's determination stands or (2) it is overturned. FEMA's determination is based on the technical data submitted. If the lender's evidence is inconclusive or the request is incomplete FEMA can disagree with the lender's determination. FEMA's response does not amend or revise the NFIP map for your community. It only states that FEMA agrees or disagrees with your lender's determination.

Occasionally a lending institution may require insurance if it determines that a part of your lot is in the SFHA. The NFIP does not insure land. However, even if you submit evidence that your building is out of the floodplain, the bank may still decide to require insurance on your building.

8. Who can do determinations of floodplain maps?

Remember, a flood determination is just an interpretation of maps provided to us by FEMA. These determinations are purely in/out and do not involve the vertical elevation of the structure. Rock Island County does offer flood determinations, for specific properties, but your lending institution may not except it. This service is available to any resident, lender or insurance agent within unincorporated Rock Island County. This office does determinations for properties located within unincorporated Rock Island County, and the Villages of Andalusia, Hillsdale and Oak Grove. If you have a question about a property within another municipality please contact the appropriate city or village.

We will provide, in writing, a determination based on the FIRM for our community. These letters do not imply that the referenced property will or will not be free from flooding or damage. A property not in a Special Flood Hazard Area may be damaged by a flood greater than predicted on the FIRM or from a local drainage problem not shown on the map. Even with one of these determination letters, your financial institution may still require you to carry flood insurance.

9. How can I find my community number and/or panel number?

All residents within unincorporated Rock Island County are in Community Number 170582. If you are in a city or village, your community number is different, please check with your local city or village.

Mapping is done digitally now. Visit FEMA's Flood Map Service Center and search by address. This will provide you with all of your informational needs.

10. Who can prepare an elevation certificate?: Elevation Certificates must be prepared and certified by a land surveyor, engineer, or architect who is authorized by commonwealth, state, or local law to certify elevation information. Community officials who are authorized by local law or ordinance to provide floodplain management information may also sign the certificate.

11. What elevation is used when rating a structure for a flood insurance policy?: The difference between the lowest floor elevation (including basement) of your structure and the 1% annual chance flood elevation is used to determine the insurance rating. Note: Only buildings are insurable, other structures are not.

12. What do I need to know if my building is in the floodplain?

Buildings in special flood hazard areas shown on FIRMs may be damaged when flooding occurs. Some buildings flood frequently, while others get damaged by only the more severe events.

If your home is in the 1% annual chance floodplain it has a 26% chance of getting flooded over a 30-year period. This means it is about five times more likely to get damaged by a flood than by a severe fire!

You should know that usually you can get flood insurance, if available, by contacting your regular homeowner's insurance agent. FEMA and others recommend that everyone in special flood hazard areas buy flood insurance. If you buy a home or refinance your home your mortgage lender or banker may require flood insurance. But, even if not required, it is a good investment, especially in areas that flood frequently or where flood forces are likely to cause major damage.

Another thing you should know is that Rock Island County requires permits for remodeling, improving, expanding, or rebuilding any structure over 70 square feet. In order to reduce long-term flood damage, the NFIP requires that buildings that are substantially improved or substantially damaged become compliant. This means if the cost of the improvements or repairs is more than 50% of the market value of the building, you will have to make it compliant with the rules for floodplain construction. Usually, this means lifting it off the foundation and elevating it above the predicted flood level. If you carry a flood insurance policy and have major flood damage, you may be eligible for up to $30,000 more to help pay for the cost of this work.

13. I bought a house near the river. I had no idea that it floods there: what do I do?: This is an actual question we receive in our office. Please understand that if you purchase a residence near a body of water, there is a chance it can be damaged by a flood. A flood can damage many properties that are not determined to be in a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA).

14. How can I be considered to be in a floodplain if I only get water when it floods?: Again, this is an actual question we get in this office. A floodplain is the area that has been determined by FEMA or other flood studies where water will go if we receive excessive amounts of water in a short period of time. This usually only happens when we get heavy rainfall or in the spring when snow is melting, but can happen at other times also.

15. Five years ago my neighbor did something I want to do now, why can't I do it?: Every year floodplain regulations are getting stricter and will continue to do so. Regulations are set by FEMA, the State of Illinois and by local government. These are constantly changing to adapt to a changing environment.

16. The mean local official says that my property has been substantially damaged, what does that mean?

This means that a flood has damaged your property, and the damage exceeds more than 50% of your property's assessed value. Your local assessor sets the assessed value and you pay taxes based on this value every year. The damage amount is based on local values of replacement. These are set values based on nationwide building valuations. Materials and labor are included even If you do the work yourself.

This also means that you cannot move back into your property until it is brought into compliance with our building codes and meets floodplain regulations. This could mean elevation, floodproofing, relocation, or demolition. If substantially damaged by flooding events, up to $30,000 may be available to assist you from a rider on your flood insurance policy. This rider does not apply to damage from other means (fire, wind, etc). Because flood insurance does not cover damage from fire, wind, etc.

17. What happens if I move back into my house, even though it has been declared substantially damaged?

Again this is an actual question we get. So there are procedures in place to deal with this. First, Rock Island County will file a notice of violation on the deed to your property, which may prevent you from selling the property and all future owners will know of the violation.

Then we will notify your insurance company of the violation, which will lead to your insurance premiums to possibly increase to $25 per $100 of assessed value per year. So a $100,000 house would pay flood insurance of $25,000 a year, because you wanted to move back into your house. Or the insurance company could decide to drop your flood insurance and then you would be expected to pay off your mortgage in 30 days.

And finally, this is a violation of the Zoning Ordinance, which has potential fines of $500 per day.

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Zoning & Building Safety - Stormwater Management

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1. What is stormwater?: The flow of water that results from precipitation and which occurs immediately following rainfall or as a result of snowmelt. When a rainfall event occurs, several things can happen to the precipitation. Some of the precipitation infiltrates into the soil surface, some is taken up by plants, and some is evaporated into the atmosphere. Stormwater is the rest of the precipitation that runs off land surfaces and impervious areas. Stormwater discharges are generated by precipitation and runoff from land, pavements, building rooftops and other surfaces. These hardened surfaces are called ‘impervious surfaces’ and they do not allow rainfall to infiltrate into the soil surface like natural vegetation, so more of the rainfall becomes stormwater runoff. Storm water runoff accumulates pollutants such as oil and grease, chemicals, nutrients, metals, and bacteria as it travels across land. Heavy precipitation or snowmelt can also cause sewer overflows that may contaminate water sources with untreated human and industrial waste, toxic materials, and other debris.

2. Where does the stormwater go?: Storm water that does not evaporate or seep into the ground drains into over miles of underground storm sewer pipe that carry surface runoff to the Mississippi River (and in some areas Sugar Creek and Rock River). Every time it rains, thousands of gallons of storm water enter our storm sewer system. As the runoff flows across lawns, driveways, parking lots and streets, it collects pollutants.

3. What type of materials can I use for fill material?: Approved Fill Material is defined as uncontaminated, nonwater-soluble, nondecomposable inert solid material. Clean fill includes soil, rock, stone, dredged material, used asphalt and brick, block or concrete masonry units (CMUs) that have been broken so as not to become “critter condos”, used concrete that has been broken into pieces smaller than 12 inches by 12 inches by 12 inches with no protruding bar from construction and demolition activities that is separate from other waste and recognizable as such. Unused asphalt would not meet the definition of clean fill.

4. What is stormwater pollution?

Many people think that pollution in our streams, rivers and lakes only comes from industrial facilities or wastewater treatment plants. Even if all these sources of pollution were eliminated, much of the pollution would still remain.

The remaining source of pollution that is not caused by specific, identifiable sources are called non-point source pollution. Typical pollutants include litter; sediments from exposed soil, pet waste, detergents, pesticides and fertilizers from lawns and gardens, paints, oil, grease and toxic chemicals from motor vehicles, road salts, and household hazardous wastes.

When these materials are improperly used or disposed of, they can be picked up by stormwater runoff as it flows across streets, parking lots and lawns. After this stormwater runoff travels through the storm sewer system, it is discharged to receiving waters without any treatment. As a result, any pollutant that is dumped on the ground can end up in our creeks, rivers and lakes.

There are serious problems associated with polluted stormwater. The pesticides, bacteria and chemicals that may be present in polluted stormwater can pose a health risk to people. Aquatic plants and animals living in streams and rivers may become sick or die from contact with polluted stormwater. Clogged catch basins can be unsightly and can cause flooding problems.

Since stormwater is naturally channeled to or flows through underground pipes to the Mississippi River (and in some areas Sugar Creek and Rock River). There is no opportunity for treatment to remove pollution. So, each of us must be careful to minimize or eliminate substances that may inadvertently pollute our waterways when it rains.

5. What rules and regulations control stormwater issues?: Illinois Drainage Law, NPDES regulations, and the Rock Island County Stormwater Ordinance are the main stormwater rules and regulations.

6. My neighbor’s stormwater runs on my property, can I divert it?: No. If the natural drainage is from their property to your property, then you cannot block the natural flow of the stormwater.

7. Can I change how stormwater flows across my property?: Yes as long at the stormwater enters and leaves your property at the same locations as it does naturally. Also you cannot unreasonably increase the flow of the stormwater.

8. There is a ravine/stream through my property; who is responsible to maintain it?: Most ravines and streams are on private property. The property owner is responsible to maintain the ravine/stream to prevent or reduce the discharge of pollutants. This maintenance shall include, but is not limited to, sediment removal, bank erosion repairs, maintenance of vegetative cover, and removal of debris from privately owned pipes and structures.

9. There is a swale or open drainage channel through my property; who is responsible to maintain it?: The property owner is responsible for maintenance of private drainage channels, including keeping the drainage channel free of trash, debris, excessive vegetation, and other obstacles that would pollute, contaminate, or retard the flow of water through the drainage channel. In addition, the owner shall maintain existing privately owned structures adjacent to the drainage channel.

10. Can I put yard waste, tree limbs, compost, concrete, chemicals, etc. into my ravine?: No. It is a violation of the storm water ordinance to release contaminates into the storm water. Common contaminates include trash, yard waste, stones, earth, concrete, wood, lawn chemicals, pet waste, wastewater (grass clippings), oil, petroleum products, cleaning products, paint products, hazardous waste and sediment.

11. Why can’t I dump my natural material (yard waste, sticks, compost, etc.) into my ravine?: These materials get picked up during storm events and are carried into the drainage channel where they cause blockages of the drainage channel, pipes, and culverts. These blockages can cause flooding at downstream properties.

12. What is a rain garden?: A rain garden is an attractive garden with a special purpose—to reduce the amount of stormwater entering our beautiful streams, rivers and lakes. A rain garden is constructed as a place to direct the rain from your roof or driveway and is landscaped with plant species native to our region.

13. What is NPDES Phase II and Who is Affected?: Stormwater runoff has been a source of great concern for many years. It can pollute lakes and streams. As a result, the 1987 amendments to the Clean Water Act required the United States Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) to address stormwater runoff in two phases. Phase I of the NPDES Storm Water Program began in 1990 and applied to large and medium municipal separate storm sewer systems (MS4) and 11 industrial categories including construction sites disturbing five acres of land or more. Phase II of the NPDES Storm Water Program will begin in March 2003 and applies to additional MS4s and construction sites disturbing equal to or greater than one but less than five acres of land. Phase II also expands the industrial "no exposure" exemption covered under Phase I. Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (Illinois EPA) is in charge of implementing both phases of the NPDES Storm Water Program.

14. How Do the Phase II Rules Affect Industry?

Phase I of the stormwater program required 11 industrial categories to obtain an NPDES permit for their stormwater discharges. Phase II does not add any new industrial categories to the program.

Phase I also included a "no exposure" exemption limited to certain "light industry" facilities. Phase II expands the "no exposure" exclusion to include all industrial facilities covered under Phase I except construction activities. If industrial materials or activities are not exposed to stormwater, an exemption can be requested under this exclusion. Illinois E PA notifies exemption applicants if the exemption is approved or if the request is denied or additional information is required. The condition of no exposure must be maintained by keeping all industrial materials or activities protected at all times. If "no exposure" conditions are not maintained, the operator must immediately apply for an NPDES stormwater permit. For a list of the Phase I "light industry" facilities, contact the Office of Small Business.

Under the Phase II "no exposure" exclusion, a written certification must be submitted every five years to verify that a condition of no exposure exists. All industrial facilities covered under Phase I of the stormwater program must either apply for an NPDES permit or complete a "no exposure" certification form every five years in order to comply with stormwater requirements. The Illinois EPA fact sheet entitled "Stormwater - Keep it Clean!" presents additional information.

15. How Do The Phase II Rules Affect Construction Sites?

Phase II of the stormwater program automatically applies to all construction activities disturbing one or more acres to less than five acres of land. These sites must receive an NPDES permit before any earthmoving activities begin. Illinois EPA may require construction sites disturbing less than one acre of land to obtain a stormwater discharge permit if such activities would adversely affect water quality.

In order to comply with Phase II of the stormwater program, follow the steps below:

Determine which parties are considered "operators" responsible for complying with the Phase II requirements.
Complete and submit a Notice of Intent (NOI) to the Illinois EPA Division of Water Pollution Control Permit Section before construction activities that will cause land disturbance begin.
Develop a stormwater pollution prevention plan (SWPPP) prior to the start of construction. The SWPPP does not need to be submitted to Illinois EPA, but must be kept on the construction site and accessible to everyone during construction activities.
Implement the SWPPP, including completion of inspection reports that must be kept on site. Complete final stabilization of the site.
Complete and submit a Notice of Termination (NOT) to Illinois EPA when any of the following occurs:
- After the land disturbing activities are complete and the site has been finally stabilized, the operator should terminate his coverage under the permit by completing a NOT form and submitting it to the Illinois EPA. The United States Environmental Protection Agency considers that a site has been finally stabilized when all land disturbing activities are complete and a uniform perennial vegetative cover with a density of 70% of the cover for unpaved areas and areas not covered by permanent structures has been established or equivalent permanent stabilization measures have been used.
- The permittee is no longer an operator of the site.
- For residential construction only, after temporary stabilization has been completed and the homeowner has been informed that he or she must complete final stabilization upon assuming control of the site.

For more information on how to comply with the stormwater program, see Illinois EPA's fact sheet "Storm Water Management for Construction Activities." More information about NPDES stormwater permits and assistance on filling out NOIs can be obtained by contacting the Illinois EPA Office of Small Business.

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Zoning & Building Safety - Zoning

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1. How can I find you?: The Rock Island County Zoning and Building Office is located at 1504 Third Avenue, Room 305, Rock Island IL, 61201. Office hours are 8 to 10 am and 3 to 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday excluding holidays. From 10 am to 3 pm, inspectors are in the field.

2. When is the best time to call?: The Zoning Investigator's normal office hours are between 8 to 10 am and 3 to 4:30 pm. Questions and permits may be handled all day, but specific requests for these persons should be made during the hours shown, otherwise, inspectors are in the field daily

3. What codes has Rock Island County adopted?: See the Codes section on the Building Safety page.

4. How much land do I need to build a house?: This varies depending on where the property is located. The smallest parcels may be 20,000 square feet (just shy of 1/2 acre). If you are looking at a property that is in the extreme outlying areas, Rock Island County may require a minimum of 40 acres for a building site. Your best bet is to email Greg Thorpe.

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