No, Illinois does not criminalize everyday jaywalking or littering as casually broken “secret” laws—they are enforceable petty offenses with defined penalties under the Illinois Vehicle Code and municipal codes.
Jaywalking Regulations
Jaywalking violates 625 ILCS 5/11-1002, prohibiting pedestrians from crossing outside marked crosswalks or against signals where available, with fines starting at $250 for first offenses and $500 thereafter. Chicago Municipal Code adds restrictions in high-traffic areas, with fines from $90-$500, and violators may face contributory negligence in accidents.
Littering Penalties
Littering falls under 415 ILCS 5/21, a petty offense with fines up to $1,000 for first violations and potential community service; repeat or larger-scale dumping escalates to misdemeanors. Enforcement targets highways and public spaces, not minor personal tosses.
Enforcement Reality
These laws prioritize safety over strict ticketing—jaywalking citations are rare absent accidents, and littering focuses on environmental impact rather than daily infractions. Myths exaggerate them as omnipresent traps.
SOURCES
[1](https://www.ganassin.com/pedestrian-accidents/illinois-crosswalk-laws/)
[2](https://www.horwitzlaw.com/blog/illinois-crosswalk-laws/)
[3](https://coffmaninjurylaw.com/jaywalking-be-careful-where-you-cross/)
[4](https://www.stronglawoffices.com/who-is-liable-when-a-car-hits-a-pedestrian-who-is-jaywalking/)
[5](https://ilga.gov/documents/legislation/ilcs/documents/062500050K11-1011.htm)
