Illinois § 12-7

Full text of Illinois Illinois Compiled Statutes § 12-7, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 12-7.

Penalty for obstructing or injuring drain, drainage structure, levee or pumping plant. Whoever wilfully obstructs, injures or destroys any covered drain constructed through the lands of others as provided in Section 2-6 of this Act, or any other drain, levee, drainage structure or pumping plant, whether private, mutual or district, is guilty of a Class A misdemeanor. The dumping of trash, refuse or debris into an open drain shall be treated and considered as obstructing a drain. The pollution of the water of any drain of any drainage district shall be considered an injury to such drain, within the meaning of this Section. Pollution shall be deemed to be wilful, within the meaning of this Section, if the person, firm or corporation responsible for such pollution shall allow the same to continue for more than 60 days after written notice from the commissioners to abate the same. Whoever wilfully cuts or breaches any private, mutual or district levee is guilty of a Class 3 felony. Any fines collected under this Section for the obstruction, injury or destruction of a district drain, drainage structure or pumping plant or for the cutting or breaching of any district levee shall be paid over to the district. In addition to the criminal penalty imposed by this Section, whoever wilfully or negligently obstructs, injures, cuts, breaches or destroys a private, mutual or district drain or drainage structure, levee or pumping plant is liable for the cost of repairing or reconstructing the same and for any damage to lands, crops or other property that may have resulted therefrom. (Source: P.A. 77-2405.)

Frequently Asked Questions About Illinois § 12-7

What does Illinois Compiled Statutes § 12-7 cover?

Section 12-7 is part of the Illinois Compiled Statutes, the codified statutory law of Illinois. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Illinois § 12-7?

A common citation format is "Illinois Compiled Statutes § 12-7" (Illinois). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Illinois law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Illinois official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Illinois attorney.

How does Illinois § 12-7 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Illinois can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Illinois.