Driveway Rules: Des Plaines vs Oak Lawn
How do driveway rules rules compare between Des Plaines, IL and Oak Lawn, IL?
Des Plaines and Oak Lawn have similar restriction levels.
Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Des Plaines City Code Title 12 (Zoning) and Title 8 (Building) require residential driveways to be paved with approved hard-surface materials and meet width limits set by the Zoning Ordinance. A driveway permit and right-of-way permit for the apron are required from Community and Economic Development.
View full Des Plaines rules →Oak Lawn, IL
Cook County
Oak Lawn regulates residential driveways through its zoning and building codes. Driveways must be paved with concrete, asphalt, brick, or approved pavers, meet width maximums based on lot size, and a permit from the Building Department is required for new construction, expansion, or replacement.
View full Oak Lawn rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Des Plaines | Oak Lawn |
|---|---|---|
| Max Width (SFR) | ~20 feet at property line | ~20 feet at property line |
| Approved Surfaces | Concrete, asphalt, pavers | Concrete, asphalt, pavers |
| Gravel | Not permitted | Not permitted |
| Apron Permit | Required from Public Works | Required from Public Works |
| Contact | CED (847) 391-5380 | Building (708) 499-7830 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Des Plaines FAQ
Do I need a permit to redo my driveway in Des Plaines?
Yes for new construction, expansion, or any work in the public right-of-way (the apron). A simple in-kind resurfacing of an existing private driveway may not require a permit; confirm with Community and Economic Development.
Can I park on the grass in Des Plaines?
No. Vehicles must be parked on an approved paved driveway. Parking on lawns or unpaved areas is a code violation subject to fines.
How wide can my driveway be in Des Plaines?
Single-family driveways are generally limited to 20 feet at the property line. Wider configurations may be approved for circular drives or larger garages.
Oak Lawn FAQ
Do I need a permit to redo my driveway in Oak Lawn?
Yes for new construction, expansion, and any work in the public right-of-way (apron). Simple resurfacing of an existing private driveway may not require a permit, but confirm with the Building Department.
Can I park on the grass in Oak Lawn?
No. Parking is only permitted on approved paved driveway surfaces. Parking on lawns, parkways, or unpaved areas is a code violation subject to fines.
How wide can my driveway be in Oak Lawn?
Residential driveways are generally limited to 20 feet at the property line. Wider driveways may be approved based on lot size and garage configuration through zoning review.
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