Evanston vs Orland Park
How do stormwater management rules compare between Evanston, IL and Orland Park, IL?
Evanston and Orland Park have similar restriction levels.
Evanston, IL
Cook County
Evanston requires stormwater management for new development and substantial improvements. Projects disturbing more than 5,000 square feet of land or adding significant impervious surface must provide on-site stormwater detention. The city follows Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) watershed management ordinance standards.
View full Evanston rules →Orland Park, IL
Cook County
Orland Park stormwater management is governed by the Cook County Watershed Management Ordinance (WMO) administered by the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD), as adopted and enforced locally by the Village. New development and substantial redevelopment must meet detention, water quality, and runoff volume standards. Smaller residential projects must manage runoff on-site without adversely impacting neighbors.
View full Orland Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Evanston | Orland Park |
|---|---|---|
| Disturbance Threshold | 5,000 sq ft triggers requirements | - |
| Detention Standard | MWRD WMO standards | - |
| Green Infrastructure | Encouraged, may offset detention | - |
| NFIP Participant | Yes — SFHA regulations apply | - |
| Public Works | (847) 448-4311 | (708) 403-6350 |
| Governing Rule | - | Cook County WMO |
| Administered By | - | MWRD + Village |
| Permit Threshold | - | 0.5 acre disturbance |
| Volume Control | - | First 1 inch capture |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Evanston FAQ
When is a stormwater management plan required in Evanston?
Projects disturbing 5,000 square feet or more or increasing impervious surface by more than 2,500 square feet must provide a stormwater management plan prepared by a licensed engineer. The plan must comply with MWRD Watershed Management Ordinance standards.
Can I use rain gardens instead of detention basins?
Yes. Evanston encourages green infrastructure including rain gardens, bioswales, permeable pavers, and green roofs. These may satisfy part of the detention requirement. Contact Public Works for design criteria.
Does Evanston have combined sewer issues?
Yes. Portions of Evanston have combined sewer systems. The city encourages downspout disconnection and green infrastructure to reduce stormwater inflow to combined sewers and minimize basement flooding during heavy rain events.
Orland Park FAQ
Who regulates stormwater in Orland Park?
The Cook County Watershed Management Ordinance administered by MWRD, as enforced locally by the Village. Public Works handles Village stormwater infrastructure.
Do I need a permit to add a patio or driveway extension?
Most small residential projects do not trigger WMO permitting (0.5-acre threshold) but must still manage runoff on-site and comply with Village drainage rules. Building permits cover small projects.
Where do I report a drainage problem?
Contact Orland Park Public Works at (708) 403-6350. Disputes between neighbors over stormwater diversion may also have civil remedies.
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