Grading & Drainage: Chicago vs Tinley Park
How do grading & drainage rules compare between Chicago, IL and Tinley Park, IL?
Tinley 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 →Tinley Park, IL
Cook County
Tinley Park regulates grading and drainage on residential properties to prevent water from being directed onto neighboring lots or creating flooding. Minor grade changes typically do not require a permit, but substantial grading requires a permit and must not alter established drainage patterns. Sump pump and downspout discharge must be directed to lawns or storm sewer, not onto neighbors or sanitary sewer.
View full Tinley Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chicago | Tinley 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 | - |
| Permit | - | Large grading yes |
| Drainage Pattern | - | Preserve established |
| Sump Discharge | - | Lawn or storm sewer |
| Sanitary Sewer | - | Discharge prohibited |
| Downspouts | - | Splash to lawn |
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.
Tinley Park FAQ
Can I regrade my yard in Tinley Park?
Minor leveling is typically fine without a permit. Substantial grading, retaining walls, or changes that redirect water flow require a grading permit and review to ensure neighbors are not adversely affected.
Where should my sump pump discharge?
Sump pumps must discharge to your own lawn at least 5 feet from the foundation, or to the storm sewer with Village approval. Discharge to the sanitary sewer is prohibited and should be disconnected if discovered.
My neighbor's drainage floods my yard — what can I do?
Start with a conversation. If unresolved, contact Code Enforcement at (708) 444-5100 to investigate. Persistent issues may require a civil nuisance action under Illinois reasonable use principles.
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