So far this growing season, about 500 residents have been given warnings for having grass or weeds taller than eight inches, and about 100 residents each month have been issued citations-ranging from $50 to $750.
Thursday night officials tightened the rope, and now warnings beyond the first offense have been eliminated.
Previously, a warning was issued at every offense, regardless of how many times the resident already had violated the code.
Residents still will have several days after warnings to get their lawns back into shape before being ticketed.
Community Development Director Martin Olsen said the updated law would train violators faster.
"I think this will cut down the number of repeat offenders," he said. "There's probably a core of residents that get citations every year, but there's new ones, too."
The weed ordinance, which is part of the property maintenance code, first was accepted in the 1970s. The law is in effect throughout the year, but is executed most during growing seasons.
Village officials approved the change to the ordinance unanimously.
"Unfortunately, we do have some residents who tend to not cut their grass or need to be reminded to cut their grass," Assistant Village Attorney Pete Pacione said. "It's unfair to those who take care of their property."
Trustee Scott Kibort said the one warning rule is a really good idea.
He said the village shouldn't be a messenger service for residents who refuse to maintain their lawns, and a ticket would give them the incentive to be responsible property owners.
"With eight-inch tall weeds, you get more bugs and it takes away from the appearance of the whole neighborhood," he said. "This is a good thing and it should have been done a long time ago. It keeps the whole community looking better."
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