Grading & Drainage: Arlington Heights vs Orland Park
How do grading & drainage rules compare between Arlington Heights, IL and Orland Park, IL?
Arlington Heights and Orland Park have similar restriction levels.
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 →Orland Park, IL
Cook County
Orland Park requires that grading and drainage on private property not adversely affect neighboring properties or Village streets and storm sewers. A grading permit may be required for substantial earthwork. The Village enforces drainage complaints under property maintenance and stormwater rules. Sump pump discharge to Village streets is regulated.
View full Orland Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington Heights | Orland Park |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Direction | - | Away from foundation |
| Sump to Sanitary | - | Prohibited |
| Downspout Distance | - | 5+ ft from foundation |
| Permit | - | Required for major earthwork |
| Public Works | - | (708) 403-6350 |
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.
Orland Park FAQ
Can I regrade my Orland Park property?
Minor lawn grading is fine, but substantial regrading or fill that affects drainage requires a building or grading permit. The result must not divert runoff onto neighbors or Village streets.
Where can my sump pump discharge?
To the lot surface, a rear-yard swale, or an approved storm sewer connection. Discharge to the sanitary sewer is prohibited. Discharge that creates ice hazards on sidewalks may be cited.
My neighbor's drainage is flooding my yard. What can I do?
Contact Code Enforcement at (708) 403-6150 to investigate. Concentrated runoff diversion is a code violation. Civil remedies may also be available for property damage.
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