Grading & Drainage: Arlington Heights vs Chicago
How do grading & drainage rules compare between Arlington Heights, IL and Chicago, IL?
Arlington Heights has fewer restrictions than Chicago.
Arlington Heights, IL
Cook County
Arlington Heights requires grading and drainage plans for new construction and significant site modifications. All grading must maintain positive drainage away from structures and must not redirect water onto neighboring properties. A grading permit is required for earth-moving activities that alter the existing drainage patterns on residential property.
View full Arlington Heights rules →Chicago, IL
Cook County
Chicago regulates grading and drainage through the Stormwater Management Ordinance (MCC 11-18) and the Building Code. New development must direct drainage away from structures and manage stormwater on-site without adversely affecting neighboring properties.
View full Chicago rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington Heights | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Grading Plan | Required for new construction | - |
| Foundation Slope | Minimum 2% for 10 feet | - |
| Retaining Wall Permit | Required if over 4 feet | - |
| Neighbor Drainage | Cannot redirect water onto adjacent lots | - |
| Engineering Contact | (847) 368-5800 | - |
| Code Section | - | MCC 11-18, Chicago Building Code |
| Standard | - | Positive drainage away from structures |
| Neighbor Impact | - | Must not increase runoff to adjacent properties |
| Sewer System | - | Combined sewer - on-site retention encouraged |
| Authority | - | Dept. of Water Management |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington Heights FAQ
Do I need a grading permit for landscaping work?
A grading permit is required if your landscaping work involves fill, excavation, or changes to existing drainage patterns. Minor landscaping that does not alter grading or drainage does not typically require a permit.
Can my neighbor redirect water onto my property?
No. The Village requires that all grading maintain existing drainage patterns and not redirect water onto adjacent properties. If a neighbor's grading work is causing drainage problems on your property, contact Engineering at (847) 368-5800.
When is an engineered retaining wall required?
Retaining walls over 4 feet in height require engineering design by a licensed professional engineer and a building permit. Walls under 4 feet generally do not need engineering but must still comply with setback and drainage requirements.
Chicago FAQ
Can I change the grading of my property in Chicago?
Regrading that affects drainage must ensure stormwater does not flow onto neighboring properties. Significant changes may require review by the Department of Water Management under MCC 11-18.
Can I connect downspouts directly to the sewer in Chicago?
Chicago discourages direct downspout connections to the combined sewer system. Disconnecting downspouts and directing water to rain gardens or rain barrels is encouraged as a stormwater BMP.
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