Grading & Drainage: Chicago vs Orland Park
How do grading & drainage rules compare between Chicago, IL and Orland Park, IL?
Orland Park 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 →Orland Park, IL
Cook County
Orland Park requires that grading and drainage on private property not adversely affect neighboring properties or Village streets and storm sewers. A grading permit may be required for substantial earthwork. The Village enforces drainage complaints under property maintenance and stormwater rules. Sump pump discharge to Village streets is regulated.
View full Orland Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chicago | Orland Park |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Direction | - | Away from foundation |
| Sump to Sanitary | - | Prohibited |
| Downspout Distance | - | 5+ ft from foundation |
| Permit | - | Required for major earthwork |
| Public Works | - | (708) 403-6350 |
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.
Orland Park FAQ
Can I regrade my Orland Park property?
Minor lawn grading is fine, but substantial regrading or fill that affects drainage requires a building or grading permit. The result must not divert runoff onto neighbors or Village streets.
Where can my sump pump discharge?
To the lot surface, a rear-yard swale, or an approved storm sewer connection. Discharge to the sanitary sewer is prohibited. Discharge that creates ice hazards on sidewalks may be cited.
My neighbor's drainage is flooding my yard. What can I do?
Contact Code Enforcement at (708) 403-6150 to investigate. Concentrated runoff diversion is a code violation. Civil remedies may also be available for property damage.
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