Erosion Control: Des Plaines vs Evanston
How do erosion control rules compare between Des Plaines, IL and Evanston, IL?
Des Plaines and Evanston have similar restriction levels.
Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Construction sites in Des Plaines disturbing 1/2 acre or more must implement erosion and sediment control measures under the MWRD Watershed Management Ordinance. Sites disturbing 1 acre or more must obtain Illinois EPA NPDES coverage under General Permit ILR10 with a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan.
View full Des Plaines rules βEvanston, IL
Cook County
Evanston requires erosion and sediment control measures on all construction sites that disturb soil. Silt fencing, sediment basins, and stabilization must be in place before grading begins. Projects disturbing one acre or more also need an NPDES stormwater construction permit from the Illinois EPA.
View full Evanston rules βKey Facts Comparison
| Fact | Des Plaines | Evanston |
|---|---|---|
| BMP Threshold | 1/2 acre | - |
| NPDES Threshold | 1 acre | - |
| Permit | IL EPA ILR10 | - |
| SWPPP | Required >1 acre | - |
| Trackout | Must be cleaned | - |
| Silt Fencing | - | Required before grading begins |
| NPDES Permit | - | 1+ acre disturbance |
| Stabilization | - | Within 14 days of final grade |
| SWPPP Required | - | For NPDES-permitted sites |
| Public Works | - | (847) 448-4311 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Des Plaines FAQ
Do I need erosion control for a home addition?
Smaller projects below 1/2 acre disturbance still must manage soil and prevent sediment from leaving the site. Larger projects must implement formal erosion control plans approved by City Engineering.
When do I need an Illinois EPA permit?
Construction projects disturbing 1 acre or more of land must obtain NPDES coverage under General Permit ILR10 and prepare a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan.
What about sediment tracked onto the street?
Trackout from construction sites onto public streets is prohibited and must be cleaned promptly. Stabilized construction entrances are required to minimize trackout.
Evanston FAQ
When is an erosion control plan required in Evanston?
All construction projects involving soil disturbance require erosion and sediment control measures. Projects disturbing one acre or more also need an NPDES permit from the Illinois EPA with a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan.
What erosion controls are required on construction sites?
Perimeter silt fencing, storm drain inlet protection, stabilized construction entrances, and dust control are standard requirements. Disturbed areas must be stabilized within 14 days. Street sweeping is required when mud is tracked onto public roads.
Who enforces erosion control in Evanston?
Evanston Public Works and building inspectors enforce local requirements. The Illinois EPA enforces NPDES permit conditions. MWRD also has enforcement authority under its Watershed Management Ordinance.
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