Stormwater Management: Arlington Heights vs Evanston
How do stormwater management rules compare between Arlington Heights, IL and Evanston, IL?
Evanston has fewer restrictions than Arlington Heights.
Arlington Heights, IL
Cook County
Arlington Heights enforces comprehensive stormwater management regulations. Development and significant improvements must include stormwater detention or retention facilities. The Village participates in the MWRD stormwater management program and the Cook County Watershed Management Ordinance applies. Grading and drainage plans are required for new construction and major renovations.
View full Arlington Heights rules →Evanston, IL
Cook County
Evanston requires stormwater management for new development and substantial improvements. Projects disturbing more than 5,000 square feet of land or adding significant impervious surface must provide on-site stormwater detention. The city follows Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) watershed management ordinance standards.
View full Evanston rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington Heights | Evanston |
|---|---|---|
| Detention Trigger | 2,500+ sq ft new impervious area | - |
| Design Storm | 100-year event | - |
| Watersheds | Salt Creek and Des Plaines River | - |
| MWRD Compliance | Required | - |
| Public Works Contact | (847) 368-5800 | - |
| Disturbance Threshold | - | 5,000 sq ft triggers requirements |
| Detention Standard | - | MWRD WMO standards |
| Green Infrastructure | - | Encouraged, may offset detention |
| NFIP Participant | - | Yes — SFHA regulations apply |
| Public Works | - | (847) 448-4311 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington Heights FAQ
When is stormwater detention required in Arlington Heights?
Detention is required when a project adds more than 2,500 square feet of new impervious surface area. The detention volume must accommodate a 100-year storm event as calculated per MWRD and Cook County standards.
Can I redirect my downspouts onto my neighbor's property?
No. Downspouts must discharge onto your own property in a manner that does not cause drainage problems for neighbors. Discharging water onto adjacent properties may result in a nuisance complaint and enforcement action.
Does Arlington Heights allow rain gardens for stormwater management?
Yes. The Village encourages green infrastructure including rain gardens, permeable pavers, and bioswales as part of stormwater management plans. These can help meet detention requirements while providing environmental benefits.
Evanston FAQ
When is a stormwater management plan required in Evanston?
Projects disturbing 5,000 square feet or more or increasing impervious surface by more than 2,500 square feet must provide a stormwater management plan prepared by a licensed engineer. The plan must comply with MWRD Watershed Management Ordinance standards.
Can I use rain gardens instead of detention basins?
Yes. Evanston encourages green infrastructure including rain gardens, bioswales, permeable pavers, and green roofs. These may satisfy part of the detention requirement. Contact Public Works for design criteria.
Does Evanston have combined sewer issues?
Yes. Portions of Evanston have combined sewer systems. The city encourages downspout disconnection and green infrastructure to reduce stormwater inflow to combined sewers and minimize basement flooding during heavy rain events.
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