Erosion Control: Chicago vs Des Plaines
How do erosion control rules compare between Chicago, IL and Des Plaines, IL?
Des Plaines has fewer restrictions than Chicago.
Chicago, IL
Cook County
Chicago requires erosion and sediment control for all construction activities under the Stormwater Management Ordinance (MCC 11-18) and the Chicago Building Code. Construction sites must implement erosion control plans to prevent sediment from entering the sewer system.
View full Chicago rules →Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Construction sites in Des Plaines disturbing 1/2 acre or more must implement erosion and sediment control measures under the MWRD Watershed Management Ordinance. Sites disturbing 1 acre or more must obtain Illinois EPA NPDES coverage under General Permit ILR10 with a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan.
View full Des Plaines rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chicago | Des Plaines |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | MCC 11-18, Chicago Building Code | - |
| NPDES Trigger | 1+ acre disturbance requires IEPA permit | - |
| Required BMPs | Silt fence, inlet protection, stabilized entrances | - |
| Enforcement | Dept. of Water Management + IEPA | - |
| Fine Range | $500 - $1,000/day for non-compliance | - |
| BMP Threshold | - | 1/2 acre |
| NPDES Threshold | - | 1 acre |
| Permit | - | IL EPA ILR10 |
| SWPPP | - | Required >1 acre |
| Trackout | - | Must be cleaned |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Chicago FAQ
What erosion control is required for construction in Chicago?
All construction must implement erosion and sediment control per MCC 11-18, including silt fencing, inlet protection, and stabilized construction entrances. Projects over 1 acre also need an NPDES permit from IEPA.
Who enforces erosion control in Chicago?
The Chicago Department of Water Management reviews and enforces erosion control plans. The Illinois EPA enforces NPDES permits for larger disturbed areas.
Des Plaines FAQ
Do I need erosion control for a home addition?
Smaller projects below 1/2 acre disturbance still must manage soil and prevent sediment from leaving the site. Larger projects must implement formal erosion control plans approved by City Engineering.
When do I need an Illinois EPA permit?
Construction projects disturbing 1 acre or more of land must obtain NPDES coverage under General Permit ILR10 and prepare a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan.
What about sediment tracked onto the street?
Trackout from construction sites onto public streets is prohibited and must be cleaned promptly. Stabilized construction entrances are required to minimize trackout.
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