Des Plaines vs Tinley Park
How do rainwater harvesting rules compare between Des Plaines, IL and Tinley Park, IL?
Des Plaines and Tinley Park 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 →Tinley Park, IL
Cook County
Rainwater harvesting is legal in Tinley Park and encouraged for outdoor irrigation use. Illinois law (415 ILCS 56, the Illinois Plumbing License Law and related rainwater rules) allows residential rain barrels without permits for non-potable outdoor use.
View full Tinley Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Des Plaines | Tinley Park |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | 415 ILCS 56 | - |
| Rain Barrels | Generally allowed | Encouraged |
| Plumbing Connection | Permit + backflow | - |
| Use | Non-potable only | - |
| Contact | CED (847) 391-5380 | Public Works (708) 444-5500 |
| Outdoor Use | - | Allowed, no permit |
| Indoor Use | - | Licensed plumber required |
| Cross-Connection | - | Prohibited without approval |
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.
Tinley Park FAQ
Is rainwater harvesting legal in Tinley Park?
Yes. Illinois law allows residential rainwater harvesting for outdoor, non-potable uses like garden and lawn watering. Rain barrels on downspouts do not require permits.
Can I use rainwater inside my house?
Only with a licensed plumber, permits, and Illinois Plumbing Code compliance including cross-connection controls. Most residential systems are limited to outdoor use.
Does Tinley Park sell rain barrels?
The village and Cook County periodically offer subsidized rain barrel programs. Check the Tinley Park Public Works and MWRD (Metropolitan Water Reclamation District) websites for current offerings.
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