Erosion Control: Arlington Heights vs Chicago
How do erosion control rules compare between Arlington Heights, IL and Chicago, IL?
Arlington Heights has fewer restrictions than Chicago.
Arlington Heights, IL
Cook County
Arlington Heights requires erosion and sediment control measures on all construction sites. Soil erosion and sediment control plans must be submitted with building permit applications for projects that disturb more than 5,000 square feet of earth. Silt fencing, stabilized construction entrances, and sediment basins are among the required best management practices.
View full Arlington Heights rules →Chicago, IL
Cook County
Chicago requires erosion and sediment control for all construction activities under the Stormwater Management Ordinance (MCC 11-18) and the Chicago Building Code. Construction sites must implement erosion control plans to prevent sediment from entering the sewer system.
View full Chicago rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington Heights | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Plan Required | When disturbing 5,000+ sq ft | - |
| NPDES Permit | Required for 1+ acre disturbance | - |
| Silt Fence | Required on downslope perimeter | - |
| Stabilization Deadline | 14 days after final grading | - |
| Performance Bond | May be required for large projects | - |
| Code Section | - | MCC 11-18, Chicago Building Code |
| NPDES Trigger | - | 1+ acre disturbance requires IEPA permit |
| Required BMPs | - | Silt fence, inlet protection, stabilized entrances |
| Enforcement | - | Dept. of Water Management + IEPA |
| Fine Range | - | $500 - $1,000/day for non-compliance |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington Heights FAQ
When do I need an erosion control plan in Arlington Heights?
An erosion and sediment control plan is required when your project will disturb more than 5,000 square feet of earth. Submit the plan with your building permit application to Community Development.
What erosion control measures are required?
Common required measures include silt fencing, stabilized construction entrances, storm drain inlet protection, and temporary seeding or mulching of exposed soils. The specific measures depend on site conditions and project scope.
Do I need a separate state permit for erosion control?
If your project disturbs one acre or more, you must obtain an NPDES permit from the Illinois EPA in addition to local erosion control requirements. Contact IEPA for the permit application.
Chicago FAQ
What erosion control is required for construction in Chicago?
All construction must implement erosion and sediment control per MCC 11-18, including silt fencing, inlet protection, and stabilized construction entrances. Projects over 1 acre also need an NPDES permit from IEPA.
Who enforces erosion control in Chicago?
The Chicago Department of Water Management reviews and enforces erosion control plans. The Illinois EPA enforces NPDES permits for larger disturbed areas.
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