Stormwater Management: Arlington Heights vs Orland Park
How do stormwater management rules compare between Arlington Heights, IL and Orland Park, IL?
Orland Park 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 →Orland Park, IL
Cook County
Orland Park stormwater management is governed by the Cook County Watershed Management Ordinance (WMO) administered by the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD), as adopted and enforced locally by the Village. New development and substantial redevelopment must meet detention, water quality, and runoff volume standards. Smaller residential projects must manage runoff on-site without adversely impacting neighbors.
View full Orland Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington Heights | Orland Park |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Governing Rule | - | Cook County WMO |
| Administered By | - | MWRD + Village |
| Permit Threshold | - | 0.5 acre disturbance |
| Volume Control | - | First 1 inch capture |
| Public Works | - | (708) 403-6350 |
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.
Orland Park FAQ
Who regulates stormwater in Orland Park?
The Cook County Watershed Management Ordinance administered by MWRD, as enforced locally by the Village. Public Works handles Village stormwater infrastructure.
Do I need a permit to add a patio or driveway extension?
Most small residential projects do not trigger WMO permitting (0.5-acre threshold) but must still manage runoff on-site and comply with Village drainage rules. Building permits cover small projects.
Where do I report a drainage problem?
Contact Orland Park Public Works at (708) 403-6350. Disputes between neighbors over stormwater diversion may also have civil remedies.
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