Conservation@Home

Encouraging Environmentally Sound Landscape Practices

Conservation@Home Cook County recognizes and certifies properties that demonstrate environmentally sound landscape practices. Through the Conservation@Home certification program, residents of Cook County have the opportunity to shape their private and community landscapes in a conservation-minded way with guidance and criteria provided for them. Below you will find criteria for homes, schools, and community settings. 

This program is brought to you by the partnership of Forest Preserves of Cook County and University of Illinois Extension's Natural Resources, Environment, and Energy and Horticulture teams.

Cook County Yard Certification Process

For a one-time fee of $50, certified gardeners will receive a Conservation@Home sign to post in their yard, a subscription to our seasonal newsletter, and early notifications/discounts during native plants sales. 
*Fee waivers are available for those who need them.

Steps for Certification:

1. Resident submits application.
2. Conservation@Home program staff review application.
3. If applicant is not ready for certification, resources are provided.
4. If applicant is ready for certification, resident pays $50 fee.
5. Resident schedules a yard/property visit**.
6. C@H evaluators visit property.
7. If criteria is met, Conservation@Home sign is awarded to resident.

**2025 property visits/evaluations are closed. Applications are accepted over the late fall and winter, but on-site evaluations don't start again until spring 2026.
 

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