Grading & Drainage: Des Plaines vs Evanston
How do grading & drainage rules compare between Des Plaines, IL and Evanston, IL?
Des Plaines and Evanston have similar restriction levels.
Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Des Plaines requires that lot grading and drainage direct stormwater away from building foundations and not concentrate runoff onto adjacent properties. Grading plans are reviewed by Engineering as part of building permits, particularly in the City's flood-prone neighborhoods along the Des Plaines River.
View full Des Plaines rules →Evanston, IL
Cook County
Evanston requires permits for grading and drainage work that alters the natural flow of water on a property. Fill, excavation, and regrading must not direct stormwater onto neighboring properties. A grading plan prepared by a licensed engineer is required for projects exceeding specified thresholds.
View full Evanston rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Des Plaines | Evanston |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation Slope | 6 inches in 10 ft | - |
| Grading Plan | Required | - |
| Sump to Sewer | Prohibited | - |
| Discharge to Lot | Prohibited | - |
| Engineering | (847) 391-5390 | - |
| Permit Threshold | - | 50+ cubic yards of earthwork |
| Engineer Required | - | Licensed PE for grading plans |
| Drainage Rule | - | Must not redirect onto neighbors |
| Bluff Areas | - | Additional review near lakefront |
| Community Dev | - | (847) 448-4311 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Des Plaines FAQ
Can my downspout drain onto my neighbor's lot?
No. Concentrated stormwater discharge directly onto an adjacent property is prohibited. Discharge to splash blocks on your own property, drywells, or storm sewer connections is appropriate.
Can I connect my sump pump to the sanitary sewer?
No. Sump pump and downspout connections to the sanitary sewer are prohibited and contribute to combined sewer overflows. They must discharge above grade or to the storm sewer.
Do I need a grading plan to replace concrete?
Minor flatwork replacement maintaining existing grades typically does not require a grading plan, but new additions or significant grading changes do require plan review by Engineering.
Evanston FAQ
When do I need a grading permit in Evanston?
A grading permit is required for projects involving more than 50 cubic yards of fill or excavation, or any work within 25 feet of a property line that could alter drainage to adjacent properties. Contact Community Development at (847) 448-4311.
Can I regrade my yard to fix drainage problems?
Yes, but you must not redirect stormwater onto neighboring properties. A grading plan from a licensed engineer may be required. The work must maintain positive drainage away from building foundations.
Are there special grading rules near the lakefront?
Yes. Grading near Lake Michigan bluffs requires additional review due to erosion and slope stability concerns. Contact Community Development for specific requirements for lakefront properties.
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