Des Plaines vs Skokie
How do rainwater harvesting rules compare between Des Plaines, IL and Skokie, IL?
Des Plaines and Skokie have similar restriction levels.
Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Rainwater collection in rain barrels and cisterns is permitted in Des Plaines under the Illinois Rainwater Harvesting Act (415 ILCS 56). Collected water must be used for non-potable purposes such as landscape irrigation, with proper backflow prevention if connected to plumbing.
View full Des Plaines rules →Skokie, IL
Cook County
Skokie permits residential rain barrels and cisterns for capturing rainwater from rooftops for outdoor non-potable use. Illinois's Rainwater Harvesting Act encourages rainwater collection, and the village supports it as a conservation practice.
View full Skokie rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Des Plaines | Skokie |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | 415 ILCS 56 | 415 ILCS 56 |
| Rain Barrels | Generally allowed | Allowed without permit |
| Plumbing Connection | Permit + backflow | - |
| Use | Non-potable only | - |
| Contact | CED (847) 391-5380 | - |
| Uses | - | Non-potable only |
| Large Cisterns | - | Permit over 500 gallons |
| Mosquito Cover | - | Required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Des Plaines FAQ
Are rain barrels legal in Des Plaines?
Yes. Illinois law (415 ILCS 56) authorizes rainwater harvesting for non-potable use. Stand-alone rain barrels at downspouts generally do not require a permit.
Can I use collected rainwater for drinking in Des Plaines?
No. Harvested rainwater may only be used for non-potable purposes such as landscape irrigation, vehicle washing, and toilet flushing. It cannot be used for drinking or cooking.
Do I need a permit for a cistern in Des Plaines?
Larger cisterns connected to building plumbing require a plumbing permit and certified backflow prevention. Stand-alone outdoor systems typically do not need a permit.
Skokie FAQ
Can I install a rain barrel in Skokie?
Yes. Residential rain barrels connected to downspouts are permitted without a permit. They must be covered to prevent mosquitoes and located on your property.
Can I use rainwater to drink in Skokie?
No. Under Illinois law, harvested rainwater may only be used for non-potable purposes such as irrigation, garden watering, and outdoor cleaning — never for drinking, cooking, or bathing.
Do I need a permit for a large cistern in Skokie?
Yes. Cisterns over 500 gallons, underground installations, or systems connected to indoor plumbing require Community Development review and appropriate plumbing permits.
Compare other topics
See how Des Plaines and Skokie compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool