Grading & Drainage: Chicago vs Des Plaines
How do grading & drainage rules compare between Chicago, IL and Des Plaines, IL?
Des Plaines has fewer restrictions than Chicago.
Chicago, IL
Cook County
Chicago regulates grading and drainage through the Stormwater Management Ordinance (MCC 11-18) and the Building Code. New development must direct drainage away from structures and manage stormwater on-site without adversely affecting neighboring properties.
View full Chicago rules →Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Des Plaines requires that lot grading and drainage direct stormwater away from building foundations and not concentrate runoff onto adjacent properties. Grading plans are reviewed by Engineering as part of building permits, particularly in the City's flood-prone neighborhoods along the Des Plaines River.
View full Des Plaines rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chicago | Des Plaines |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | MCC 11-18, Chicago Building Code | - |
| Standard | Positive drainage away from structures | - |
| Neighbor Impact | Must not increase runoff to adjacent properties | - |
| Sewer System | Combined sewer - on-site retention encouraged | - |
| Authority | Dept. of Water Management | - |
| Foundation Slope | - | 6 inches in 10 ft |
| Grading Plan | - | Required |
| Sump to Sewer | - | Prohibited |
| Discharge to Lot | - | Prohibited |
| Engineering | - | (847) 391-5390 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Chicago FAQ
Can I change the grading of my property in Chicago?
Regrading that affects drainage must ensure stormwater does not flow onto neighboring properties. Significant changes may require review by the Department of Water Management under MCC 11-18.
Can I connect downspouts directly to the sewer in Chicago?
Chicago discourages direct downspout connections to the combined sewer system. Disconnecting downspouts and directing water to rain gardens or rain barrels is encouraged as a stormwater BMP.
Des Plaines FAQ
Can my downspout drain onto my neighbor's lot?
No. Concentrated stormwater discharge directly onto an adjacent property is prohibited. Discharge to splash blocks on your own property, drywells, or storm sewer connections is appropriate.
Can I connect my sump pump to the sanitary sewer?
No. Sump pump and downspout connections to the sanitary sewer are prohibited and contribute to combined sewer overflows. They must discharge above grade or to the storm sewer.
Do I need a grading plan to replace concrete?
Minor flatwork replacement maintaining existing grades typically does not require a grading plan, but new additions or significant grading changes do require plan review by Engineering.
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