Deck & Patio Permits: Des Plaines vs Oak Lawn
How do deck & patio permits rules compare between Des Plaines, IL and Oak Lawn, IL?
Des Plaines and Oak Lawn have similar restriction levels.
Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Decks attached to a home in Des Plaines require a building permit regardless of size. Patios at grade may be permit-exempt below a threshold but still must comply with zoning, lot coverage, and floodplain rules.
View full Des Plaines rules →Oak Lawn, IL
Cook County
Decks in Oak Lawn require a building permit; at-grade patios often require a permit for coverage and drainage. Both must meet zoning setbacks, lot-coverage limits, and structural standards.
View full Oak Lawn rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Des Plaines | Oak Lawn |
|---|---|---|
| Deck Permit | Required | Always required |
| Patio Permit | Often exempt under 200 sq ft | Usually required |
| Footing Depth | 42 inch frost line | - |
| Guard Height | 36-42 inches | - |
| Floodplain | Additional rules apply | - |
| Guardrails | - | Over 30 in drop |
| Setbacks | - | Apply to both |
| Stormwater | - | May apply |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Des Plaines FAQ
Do I need a permit for my Des Plaines deck?
Yes. Attached decks require a building permit regardless of size. Submit plot plan and construction details to Community Development.
What about a paver patio?
At-grade patios under a threshold (commonly 200 sq ft) may be permit-exempt but still count toward lot coverage limits. Verify with Community Development.
What if my deck is in the Des Plaines River floodplain?
Additional floodplain elevation and permit requirements apply. Contact the city's floodplain administrator before designing or applying.
Oak Lawn FAQ
Is a small patio permit-free?
Oak Lawn usually requires a permit for patios due to impervious coverage. Confirm current thresholds with Community Development before starting.
Does a deck need guardrails?
Yes, once the deck surface is more than 30 inches above grade at any point. Minimum guardrail height is 36 inches.
Can I build over the easement behind my house?
Easements typically prohibit permanent structures. Check your plat of survey and coordinate with the easement-holding utility before applying.
Compare other topics
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