Evanston vs Orland Park
How do grading & drainage rules compare between Evanston, IL and Orland Park, IL?
Evanston and Orland Park have similar restriction levels.
Evanston, IL
Cook County
Evanston requires permits for grading and drainage work that alters the natural flow of water on a property. Fill, excavation, and regrading must not direct stormwater onto neighboring properties. A grading plan prepared by a licensed engineer is required for projects exceeding specified thresholds.
View full Evanston rules →Orland Park, IL
Cook County
Orland Park requires that grading and drainage on private property not adversely affect neighboring properties or Village streets and storm sewers. A grading permit may be required for substantial earthwork. The Village enforces drainage complaints under property maintenance and stormwater rules. Sump pump discharge to Village streets is regulated.
View full Orland Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Evanston | Orland Park |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Threshold | 50+ cubic yards of earthwork | - |
| Engineer Required | Licensed PE for grading plans | - |
| Drainage Rule | Must not redirect onto neighbors | - |
| Bluff Areas | Additional review near lakefront | - |
| Community Dev | (847) 448-4311 | - |
| Direction | - | Away from foundation |
| Sump to Sanitary | - | Prohibited |
| Downspout Distance | - | 5+ ft from foundation |
| Permit | - | Required for major earthwork |
| Public Works | - | (708) 403-6350 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Evanston FAQ
When do I need a grading permit in Evanston?
A grading permit is required for projects involving more than 50 cubic yards of fill or excavation, or any work within 25 feet of a property line that could alter drainage to adjacent properties. Contact Community Development at (847) 448-4311.
Can I regrade my yard to fix drainage problems?
Yes, but you must not redirect stormwater onto neighboring properties. A grading plan from a licensed engineer may be required. The work must maintain positive drainage away from building foundations.
Are there special grading rules near the lakefront?
Yes. Grading near Lake Michigan bluffs requires additional review due to erosion and slope stability concerns. Contact Community Development for specific requirements for lakefront properties.
Orland Park FAQ
Can I regrade my Orland Park property?
Minor lawn grading is fine, but substantial regrading or fill that affects drainage requires a building or grading permit. The result must not divert runoff onto neighbors or Village streets.
Where can my sump pump discharge?
To the lot surface, a rear-yard swale, or an approved storm sewer connection. Discharge to the sanitary sewer is prohibited. Discharge that creates ice hazards on sidewalks may be cited.
My neighbor's drainage is flooding my yard. What can I do?
Contact Code Enforcement at (708) 403-6150 to investigate. Concentrated runoff diversion is a code violation. Civil remedies may also be available for property damage.
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