Retaining Walls: Des Plaines vs Orland Park
How do retaining walls rules compare between Des Plaines, IL and Orland Park, IL?
Des Plaines and Orland Park have similar restriction levels.
Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Des Plaines requires a building permit for retaining walls, with engineered designs typically required for walls over 4 feet in height as required by the International Residential Code adopted by the city. Walls must comply with drainage and easement requirements.
View full Des Plaines rules →Orland Park, IL
Cook County
Orland Park requires a building permit for retaining walls over 4 feet in height (measured from base footing). Walls over 4 feet require engineered drawings stamped by a licensed Illinois structural engineer.
View full Orland Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Des Plaines | Orland Park |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Threshold | Generally required all | Most walls require permit |
| Engineering | Required over 4 feet | - |
| Drainage | Cannot redirect onto neighbor | - |
| Floodplain Review | Required near river | - |
| Contact | CED (847) 391-5380 | Building (708) 403-6200 |
| Engineering Required | - | Walls over 4 ft or w/ surcharge |
| Guard Rail | - | Often required if 30+ in drop |
| JULIE Locate | - | Required (call 811) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Des Plaines FAQ
Do I need a permit for a retaining wall in Des Plaines?
Yes for most retaining walls. Walls over 4 feet in height generally require stamped engineering. Smaller landscape walls may need permits depending on location and drainage impact.
Can my retaining wall drain onto my neighbor's property?
No. The wall must not redirect surface water onto neighboring lots. Improper drainage can lead to code violations and civil liability.
Are retaining walls in the floodplain regulated differently in Des Plaines?
Yes. Walls within the Des Plaines River floodplain require additional review under the city's flood damage prevention ordinance to ensure no adverse impact on flood storage.
Orland Park FAQ
Do I need a permit for a retaining wall in Orland Park?
Yes for most walls. Walls over 4 feet or supporting a slope/structure require engineered plans and a full permit.
Who can design a tall retaining wall in Orland Park?
Walls over 4 feet or with surcharge require drawings stamped by a licensed Illinois structural or professional engineer.
Do I need a railing on top of my retaining wall?
If the drop on the high side exceeds 30 inches and the wall is in a walking area, a guard rail is typically required by the building code.
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