Flood Zones: Arlington Heights vs Oak Park
How do flood zones rules compare between Arlington Heights, IL and Oak Park, IL?
Arlington Heights and Oak Park 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 →Oak Park, IL
Cook County
Oak Park has FEMA-designated flood zones primarily along the Des Plaines River corridor and areas affected by the combined sewer system. Properties in Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs) must comply with floodplain development regulations including elevation requirements, flood insurance mandates, and construction restrictions. The village participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
View full Oak Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington Heights | Oak Park |
|---|---|---|
| NFIP Participation | Yes, with CRS discount | - |
| Freeboard Requirement | 1 foot above BFE | - |
| Floodway Construction | Prohibited | - |
| Substantial Improvement | 50% of market value | 50% of market value triggers compliance |
| Compensatory Storage | 1:1 ratio required for fill | - |
| NFIP Participant | - | Yes |
| Primary Flood Risk | - | Des Plaines River & combined sewers |
| Elevation Required | - | At or above BFE in SFHAs |
| CRS Participation | - | May reduce insurance premiums |
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.
Oak Park FAQ
Is my Oak Park property in a flood zone?
Check FEMA's Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) at msc.fema.gov or contact the village's engineering department. Properties near the Des Plaines River corridor are most likely to be in designated flood zones.
Do I need flood insurance in Oak Park?
If your property is in a Special Flood Hazard Area and you have a federally backed mortgage, flood insurance is required. Even properties outside SFHAs can flood, so insurance is recommended for all Oak Park homeowners.
Can I finish my basement if I am in a flood zone?
Basements in SFHAs face strict regulations. Substantial improvements (costing 50% or more of the structure's value) must comply with floodplain development standards. Contact the village's Building Division before starting work.
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