Flood Zones: Des Plaines vs Oak Park
How do flood zones rules compare between Des Plaines, IL and Oak Park, IL?
Des Plaines has fewer restrictions than Oak Park.
Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Des Plaines participates in NFIP. The Des Plaines River runs through the city and portions are in FEMA flood hazard areas. NFIP flood insurance required with federally backed mortgages in SFHAs.
View full Des Plaines rules →Oak Park, IL
Cook County
Oak Park has FEMA-designated flood zones primarily along the Des Plaines River corridor and areas affected by the combined sewer system. Properties in Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs) must comply with floodplain development regulations including elevation requirements, flood insurance mandates, and construction restrictions. The village participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
View full Oak Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Des Plaines | Oak Park |
|---|---|---|
| NFIP | Des Plaines participates | - |
| Flood Risk | Des Plaines River and tributaries — portions in SFHAs | - |
| 50% Rule | Substantial improvement triggers full flood compliance | - |
| Flood Insurance | Required with federally backed mortgages in SFHAs | - |
| Contact | Public Works Engineering: 847-391-5390 | - |
| NFIP Participant | - | Yes |
| Primary Flood Risk | - | Des Plaines River & combined sewers |
| Elevation Required | - | At or above BFE in SFHAs |
| Substantial Improvement | - | 50% of market value triggers compliance |
| CRS Participation | - | May reduce insurance premiums |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Des Plaines FAQ
Is my property in a flood zone in Des Plaines?
Des Plaines participates in NFIP. The Des Plaines River runs through the city and portions are in FEMA flood hazard areas. NFIP flood insurance required with federally backed mortgages in SFHAs.
Do I need flood insurance in Des Plaines?
NFIP: Des Plaines participates. Flood Risk: Des Plaines River and tributaries — portions in SFHAs. 50% Rule: Substantial improvement triggers full flood compliance. Flood Insurance: Required with federally backed mortgages in SFHAs.
Oak Park FAQ
Is my Oak Park property in a flood zone?
Check FEMA's Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) at msc.fema.gov or contact the village's engineering department. Properties near the Des Plaines River corridor are most likely to be in designated flood zones.
Do I need flood insurance in Oak Park?
If your property is in a Special Flood Hazard Area and you have a federally backed mortgage, flood insurance is required. Even properties outside SFHAs can flood, so insurance is recommended for all Oak Park homeowners.
Can I finish my basement if I am in a flood zone?
Basements in SFHAs face strict regulations. Substantial improvements (costing 50% or more of the structure's value) must comply with floodplain development standards. Contact the village's Building Division before starting work.
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