Deck & Patio Permits: Des Plaines vs Orland Park
How do deck & patio permits rules compare between Des Plaines, IL and Orland Park, IL?
Des Plaines and Orland Park 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 →Orland Park, IL
Cook County
Orland Park requires building permits for decks, with structural plans, setbacks, and HOA approval typically required. Patios at grade may be permit-exempt depending on size but still count toward lot coverage and may trigger stormwater detention.
View full Orland Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Des Plaines | Orland Park |
|---|---|---|
| Deck Permit | Required | Required if attached or 30+ in |
| Patio Permit | Often exempt under 200 sq ft | - |
| Footing Depth | 42 inch frost line | 42 in (frost line) |
| Guard Height | 36-42 inches | - |
| Floodplain | Additional rules apply | - |
| Railing Height | - | 36 in minimum |
| Patio at Grade | - | May be exempt |
| HOA Approval | - | Usually required |
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.
Orland Park FAQ
Do I need a permit for a backyard patio?
Patios at grade may be permit-exempt for smaller areas, but still count toward lot coverage. Confirm with Development Services before installation.
What's required for a deck permit?
Site plan, framing plans, footing details to frost depth, railing details, and HOA approval where applicable. Inspections occur at footing, framing, and final.
Can I build a deck right up to the property line?
No. Decks must meet rear-yard setback minus any allowed projection. Verify exact setback with Development Services for your zoning.
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