Flood Zones: Arlington Heights vs Evanston
How do flood zones rules compare between Arlington Heights, IL and Evanston, IL?
Arlington Heights and Evanston have similar restriction levels.
Arlington Heights, IL
Cook County
Arlington Heights participates in the National Flood Insurance Program and enforces a floodplain management ordinance. Properties in FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas along Salt Creek and its tributaries are subject to strict building restrictions including elevation requirements, flood-proofing standards, and prohibitions on certain types of development in the floodway.
View full Arlington Heights rules →Evanston, IL
Cook County
Evanston participates in the National Flood Insurance Program and regulates construction in FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas. New construction and substantial improvements in flood zones must elevate the lowest floor at least one foot above base flood elevation. Evanston's flood damage prevention ordinance exceeds minimum NFIP standards.
View full Evanston rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington Heights | Evanston |
|---|---|---|
| NFIP Participation | Yes, with CRS discount | - |
| Freeboard Requirement | 1 foot above BFE | 1 foot above BFE |
| Floodway Construction | Prohibited | - |
| Substantial Improvement | 50% of market value | 50% of market value threshold |
| Compensatory Storage | 1:1 ratio required for fill | - |
| CRS Participant | - | Yes — insurance discounts possible |
| Elevation Certificate | - | Required before occupancy |
| Community Dev | - | (847) 448-4311 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington Heights FAQ
Is my property in a flood zone in Arlington Heights?
Check the FEMA Flood Map Service Center or contact the Village Engineering Division at (847) 368-5800. Flood hazard areas in Arlington Heights are primarily along Salt Creek and McDonald Creek.
Can I build in the floodplain?
New construction in the floodplain must have the lowest floor elevated at least one foot above the base flood elevation. No new construction is allowed in the regulatory floodway. A floodplain development permit is required.
Do I need flood insurance in Arlington Heights?
Flood insurance is required by mortgage lenders for properties in Special Flood Hazard Areas. Even outside these zones, flood insurance is available and recommended. The Village's CRS participation may provide premium discounts.
Evanston FAQ
How high must new construction be above the flood level in Evanston?
The lowest floor, including basement, must be at least one foot above the base flood elevation. This freeboard requirement exceeds the minimum NFIP standard and provides additional flood protection.
Does Evanston participate in the CRS program?
Yes. Evanston participates in the Community Rating System, which can provide flood insurance premium discounts to residents in SFHAs based on the city's floodplain management practices.
Can I renovate a building in a flood zone in Evanston?
Yes, but if the improvements equal or exceed 50% of the structure's market value, the entire structure must be brought into compliance with flood zone requirements, including elevation above BFE.
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