Arlington Heights vs Oak Lawn
How do stormwater management rules compare between Arlington Heights, IL and Oak Lawn, IL?
Arlington Heights and Oak Lawn have similar restriction levels.
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 →Oak Lawn, IL
Cook County
Oak Lawn is subject to the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) Watershed Management Ordinance (WMO) for stormwater and floodplain management. Development projects disturbing 0.5 acres or more require a WMO permit with detention, water quality, and runoff controls. Smaller residential projects follow Village grading and drainage rules.
View full Oak Lawn rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington Heights | Oak Lawn |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Authority | - | MWRD WMO |
| Permit Threshold | - | 0.5 acres disturbance |
| Volume Control | - | 1-inch retention |
| Detention | - | Peak rate control |
| Local Grading | - | Oak Lawn Public Works |
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.
Oak Lawn FAQ
Do I need a stormwater permit for my home project?
Most residential lot projects disturb less than 0.5 acres and do not require an MWRD permit, but must comply with Oak Lawn's grading and drainage rules at building permit.
Who regulates stormwater in Oak Lawn?
MWRD administers the Watershed Management Ordinance for larger projects. Oak Lawn enforces lot-level grading, drainage, and downspout rules through its Building Department.
Can I discharge my sump pump to the street?
Sump discharge to the street or alley is typically acceptable where it drains to a storm sewer. Discharge directly onto neighboring property is not permitted. Check Oak Lawn Public Works for specifics.
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