Grading & Drainage: Oak Lawn vs Oak Park
How do grading & drainage rules compare between Oak Lawn, IL and Oak Park, IL?
Oak Lawn and Oak Park have similar restriction levels.
Oak Lawn, IL
Cook County
Oak Lawn requires new construction and significant improvements to maintain positive drainage away from structures without adversely affecting neighboring properties. Grading plans are reviewed at building permit. Surface water may not be discharged directly onto adjacent properties.
View full Oak Lawn rules →Oak Park, IL
Cook County
Oak Park requires grading and drainage plans for construction projects that alter the topography or drainage patterns of a property. Property owners must ensure that surface water drains properly and does not flow onto neighboring properties. Grading permits may be required for significant earthwork.
View full Oak Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Oak Lawn | Oak Park |
|---|---|---|
| Slope from Foundation | 2% minimum | - |
| Extension | 10 feet from foundation | - |
| Downspout to Sewer | Prohibited | - |
| Sump to Yard | Not to sanitary | - |
| Final Inspection | Required pre-CO | - |
| Grading Plan | - | Required with building permits |
| Drainage Rule | - | Cannot increase flow to neighbors |
| Downspouts | - | Must not connect to sanitary sewer |
| Retaining Walls | - | Permit required over 4 ft |
| Regional Standard | - | MWRD Watershed Management Ordinance |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Oak Lawn FAQ
Can water from my yard drain to my neighbor's?
Not as a result of your grading changes. Oak Lawn's rules prevent creating new or increased drainage onto neighboring properties. Preserve or re-establish historic drainage patterns.
Where should my downspouts discharge?
Discharge away from foundations to the yard where water can infiltrate or flow to the street. Do not connect downspouts to the sanitary sewer.
Do I need a grading plan for an addition?
Yes for significant additions or new construction. A grading plan by a licensed surveyor or engineer is reviewed at building permit.
Oak Park FAQ
Do I need a grading permit in Oak Park?
A grading plan is required as part of most building permits. Significant earthwork may require a separate grading permit even without other construction. Contact the Building Division to determine if your project needs one.
Can I change the slope of my yard?
You may regrade your property, but you cannot alter drainage patterns in a way that increases stormwater flow onto neighboring properties. A grading plan showing existing and proposed drainage is typically required.
Can I connect my downspouts to the sewer?
Direct connection of downspouts to the sanitary sewer is not permitted. Downspouts should discharge onto your property's surface where water can infiltrate or be managed through approved drainage methods.
Compare other topics
See how Oak Lawn and Oak Park compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool