Safety Rules: Chicago vs Orland Park
How do safety rules rules compare between Chicago, IL and Orland Park, IL?
Orland Park has fewer restrictions than Chicago.
Chicago, IL
Cook County
Chicago restricts private residential pool use to June 1 through September 15, and hours of 8 AM to 10 PM. A skilled swimmer must be present during use. No diving boards over 3 feet above water. Pools must be drained and covered when not in season.
View full Chicago rules →Orland Park, IL
Cook County
Orland Park pool safety rules combine the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code, the Illinois Swimming Facility Act for public pools, and general property maintenance provisions. Private residential pools must maintain required barriers, anti-entrapment drain covers compliant with the federal Virginia Graeme Baker Act, and proper water quality.
View full Orland Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chicago | Orland Park |
|---|---|---|
| Season | June 1 - September 15 only | - |
| Hours | 8 AM - 10 PM | - |
| Supervision | Skilled swimmer required | - |
| Diving Board Max | 3 feet above water | - |
| Federal Law | - | Virginia Graeme Baker Act |
| Drain Covers | - | Anti-entrapment required |
| Stagnant Water | - | Mosquito nuisance violation |
| Public Pools | - | Cook County Health inspected |
| Electrical | - | GFCI and bonding |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Chicago FAQ
When can I use my pool in Chicago?
Only between June 1 and September 15, from 8 AM to 10 PM. Pools must be drained and covered at all other times of the year.
What safety equipment is required for a Chicago pool?
A throwing ring buoy with rope line and a flexible reach-assist pole must be available. A skilled swimmer must be present whenever the pool is in use. Diving boards cannot exceed 3 feet above water level.
Orland Park FAQ
What safety equipment is required on my Orland Park pool?
Anti-entrapment compliant drain covers under federal law, proper GFCI electrical protection, and the required 48-inch barrier. Pool water must be maintained to prevent stagnation.
Can I drain my pool into the sewer?
Pool drainage is regulated by the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District. Dechlorinated water may typically be drained to the sanitary sewer through a cleanout. Contact Public Works at (708) 403-6350 for guidance.
Are diving boards regulated?
Orland Park follows the adopted pool and spa code which imposes minimum depth requirements beneath diving boards. Many modern residential pools do not meet the depth required for a traditional diving board. Check with Building Division before installing one.
Compare other topics
See how Chicago and Orland Park compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool