Chicago vs Skokie
How do grading & drainage rules compare between Chicago, IL and Skokie, IL?
Skokie 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 →Skokie, IL
Cook County
Skokie requires that lot drainage be managed so that stormwater flows to public streets, alleys, or storm sewers and does not adversely affect neighboring properties. Grading plans are reviewed by Public Works and Community Development for new construction, additions, and major landscaping projects. Alterations that redirect water onto neighbors violate the municipal code.
View full Skokie rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chicago | Skokie |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Positive Drainage | - | Away from structures |
| Neighbor Drainage | - | Cannot redirect harmfully |
| Downspouts | - | Not to sanitary sewer |
| Retaining Walls | - | Engineered over 4 ft |
| Minimum Slope | - | 2% from foundation |
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.
Skokie FAQ
Do I need a permit to regrade my yard?
Major grading, retaining wall construction, or projects that change drainage patterns may require a permit. Minor landscaping without altered drainage typically does not. Contact Community Development before significant projects.
My neighbor's drainage is flooding my yard. What can I do?
Report to Skokie Public Works at (847) 933-8427. The Village can investigate whether modifications violate drainage rules. Civil remedies are also available through private legal action.
Where should my sump pump discharge?
To your own property, ideally toward the street, alley, or storm inlet. It may not connect to the sanitary sewer, and the discharge cannot be concentrated onto neighboring property.
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