Stormwater Management: Arlington Heights vs Skokie
How do stormwater management rules compare between Arlington Heights, IL and Skokie, IL?
Skokie 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 →Skokie, IL
Cook County
Skokie is subject to the Cook County Watershed Management Ordinance (WMO) administered by the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD), which regulates development-related stormwater volume, detention, and water quality. The Village also maintains local sewer and grading rules. Development over 1/2 acre of new or redevelopment impervious area triggers full WMO review.
View full Skokie rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington Heights | Skokie |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Regulator | - | MWRD / Cook County WMO |
| WMO Trigger | - | 0.5 acre impervious |
| Watershed | - | North Branch Chicago River |
| Illicit Discharge | - | Prohibited |
| Sanitary Sewer | - | No downspout/sump connection |
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.
Skokie FAQ
Who regulates stormwater in Skokie?
The Cook County Watershed Management Ordinance is administered by MWRD. Skokie Public Works also enforces local grading, drainage, and sewer use rules.
Can I tie my downspout into the sewer?
No. Connecting downspouts or sump pumps to the sanitary sewer is prohibited and contributes to combined-sewer overflows. Downspouts should discharge to pervious areas or stormwater systems.
What if my neighbor's water floods my yard?
Report to Skokie Public Works at (847) 933-8427. The Village can investigate whether drainage modifications violate local grading rules. Civil remedies may also be available.
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