Erosion Control: Arlington Heights vs Skokie
How do erosion control rules compare between Arlington Heights, IL and Skokie, IL?
Arlington Heights and Skokie have similar restriction levels.
Arlington Heights, IL
Cook County
Arlington Heights requires erosion and sediment control measures on all construction sites. Soil erosion and sediment control plans must be submitted with building permit applications for projects that disturb more than 5,000 square feet of earth. Silt fencing, stabilized construction entrances, and sediment basins are among the required best management practices.
View full Arlington Heights rules →Skokie, IL
Cook County
Erosion and sediment control on Skokie construction sites is governed by the Cook County Watershed Management Ordinance and the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency's construction general permit for sites disturbing 1 acre or more. Skokie Public Works enforces local grading and erosion rules for smaller sites and requires silt fencing and inlet protection on active construction.
View full Skokie rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington Heights | Skokie |
|---|---|---|
| Plan Required | When disturbing 5,000+ sq ft | - |
| NPDES Permit | Required for 1+ acre disturbance | - |
| Silt Fence | Required on downslope perimeter | - |
| Stabilization Deadline | 14 days after final grading | - |
| Performance Bond | May be required for large projects | - |
| IEPA Permit | - | 1+ acre disturbance |
| Silt Fencing | - | Required |
| Inlet Protection | - | Required |
| Stabilization | - | Within 14 days typical |
| Tracking | - | Must be cleaned promptly |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington Heights FAQ
When do I need an erosion control plan in Arlington Heights?
An erosion and sediment control plan is required when your project will disturb more than 5,000 square feet of earth. Submit the plan with your building permit application to Community Development.
What erosion control measures are required?
Common required measures include silt fencing, stabilized construction entrances, storm drain inlet protection, and temporary seeding or mulching of exposed soils. The specific measures depend on site conditions and project scope.
Do I need a separate state permit for erosion control?
If your project disturbs one acre or more, you must obtain an NPDES permit from the Illinois EPA in addition to local erosion control requirements. Contact IEPA for the permit application.
Skokie FAQ
Do I need erosion control for a residential project?
Yes if you are disturbing meaningful amounts of soil. Silt fencing, inlet protection, and prompt stabilization are standard expectations. Larger projects (1+ acre) require an IEPA NPDES permit.
Who inspects erosion controls?
Skokie Public Works and Community Development inspectors during construction. For IEPA-permitted sites, EPA compliance staff may also inspect. Neighbors may report violations.
What about sediment on the street?
Sediment tracked onto streets or deposited in storm inlets must be cleaned promptly. Failure to clean can trigger code enforcement and cleanup costs charged to the responsible party.
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