Flood Zones: Evanston vs Oak Lawn
How do flood zones rules compare between Evanston, IL and Oak Lawn, IL?
Oak Lawn has fewer restrictions than Evanston.
Evanston, IL
Cook County
Evanston participates in the National Flood Insurance Program and regulates construction in FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas. New construction and substantial improvements in flood zones must elevate the lowest floor at least one foot above base flood elevation. Evanston's flood damage prevention ordinance exceeds minimum NFIP standards.
View full Evanston rules →Oak Lawn, IL
Cook County
Oak Lawn participates in NFIP. Portions of the Village near local waterways may be in FEMA flood hazard areas. Flood insurance required with federally backed mortgages in SFHAs.
View full Oak Lawn rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Evanston | Oak Lawn |
|---|---|---|
| Freeboard Requirement | 1 foot above BFE | - |
| CRS Participant | Yes — insurance discounts possible | - |
| Substantial Improvement | 50% of market value threshold | - |
| Elevation Certificate | Required before occupancy | - |
| Community Dev | (847) 448-4311 | - |
| NFIP | - | Oak Lawn participates |
| Flood Risk | - | Local waterways — portions may be in SFHAs |
| 50% Rule | - | Substantial improvement triggers full flood compliance |
| Flood Insurance | - | Required with federally backed mortgages in SFHAs |
| Contact | - | Community Development: 708-499-7800 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Evanston FAQ
How high must new construction be above the flood level in Evanston?
The lowest floor, including basement, must be at least one foot above the base flood elevation. This freeboard requirement exceeds the minimum NFIP standard and provides additional flood protection.
Does Evanston participate in the CRS program?
Yes. Evanston participates in the Community Rating System, which can provide flood insurance premium discounts to residents in SFHAs based on the city's floodplain management practices.
Can I renovate a building in a flood zone in Evanston?
Yes, but if the improvements equal or exceed 50% of the structure's market value, the entire structure must be brought into compliance with flood zone requirements, including elevation above BFE.
Oak Lawn FAQ
Is my property in a flood zone in Oak Lawn?
Oak Lawn participates in NFIP. Portions of the Village near local waterways may be in FEMA flood hazard areas. Flood insurance required with federally backed mortgages in SFHAs.
Do I need flood insurance in Oak Lawn?
NFIP: Oak Lawn participates. Flood Risk: Local waterways — portions may be in SFHAs. 50% Rule: Substantial improvement triggers full flood compliance. Flood Insurance: Required with federally backed mortgages in SFHAs.
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