Grading & Drainage: Des Plaines vs Tinley Park
How do grading & drainage rules compare between Des Plaines, IL and Tinley Park, IL?
Des Plaines and Tinley Park have similar restriction levels.
Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Des Plaines requires that lot grading and drainage direct stormwater away from building foundations and not concentrate runoff onto adjacent properties. Grading plans are reviewed by Engineering as part of building permits, particularly in the City's flood-prone neighborhoods along the Des Plaines River.
View full Des Plaines rules →Tinley Park, IL
Cook County
Tinley Park regulates grading and drainage on residential properties to prevent water from being directed onto neighboring lots or creating flooding. Minor grade changes typically do not require a permit, but substantial grading requires a permit and must not alter established drainage patterns. Sump pump and downspout discharge must be directed to lawns or storm sewer, not onto neighbors or sanitary sewer.
View full Tinley Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Des Plaines | Tinley Park |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation Slope | 6 inches in 10 ft | - |
| Grading Plan | Required | - |
| Sump to Sewer | Prohibited | - |
| Discharge to Lot | Prohibited | - |
| Engineering | (847) 391-5390 | - |
| Permit | - | Large grading yes |
| Drainage Pattern | - | Preserve established |
| Sump Discharge | - | Lawn or storm sewer |
| Sanitary Sewer | - | Discharge prohibited |
| Downspouts | - | Splash to lawn |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Des Plaines FAQ
Can my downspout drain onto my neighbor's lot?
No. Concentrated stormwater discharge directly onto an adjacent property is prohibited. Discharge to splash blocks on your own property, drywells, or storm sewer connections is appropriate.
Can I connect my sump pump to the sanitary sewer?
No. Sump pump and downspout connections to the sanitary sewer are prohibited and contribute to combined sewer overflows. They must discharge above grade or to the storm sewer.
Do I need a grading plan to replace concrete?
Minor flatwork replacement maintaining existing grades typically does not require a grading plan, but new additions or significant grading changes do require plan review by Engineering.
Tinley Park FAQ
Can I regrade my yard in Tinley Park?
Minor leveling is typically fine without a permit. Substantial grading, retaining walls, or changes that redirect water flow require a grading permit and review to ensure neighbors are not adversely affected.
Where should my sump pump discharge?
Sump pumps must discharge to your own lawn at least 5 feet from the foundation, or to the storm sewer with Village approval. Discharge to the sanitary sewer is prohibited and should be disconnected if discovered.
My neighbor's drainage floods my yard — what can I do?
Start with a conversation. If unresolved, contact Code Enforcement at (708) 444-5100 to investigate. Persistent issues may require a civil nuisance action under Illinois reasonable use principles.
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