Retaining Walls: Orland Park vs Tinley Park
How do retaining walls rules compare between Orland Park, IL and Tinley Park, IL?
Orland Park and Tinley Park have similar restriction levels.
Orland Park, IL
Cook County
Orland Park requires a building permit for retaining walls over 4 feet in height (measured from base footing). Walls over 4 feet require engineered drawings stamped by a licensed Illinois structural engineer.
View full Orland Park rules →Tinley Park, IL
Cook County
Tinley Park requires building permits for retaining walls over 4 feet in height and for any wall supporting a surcharge or structure. Engineered plans are required for taller walls. Drainage cannot be directed onto neighboring properties.
View full Tinley Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Orland Park | Tinley Park |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Threshold | Most walls require permit | Over 4 feet tall |
| Engineering Required | Walls over 4 ft or w/ surcharge | - |
| Guard Rail | Often required if 30+ in drop | - |
| JULIE Locate | Required (call 811) | - |
| Contact | Building (708) 403-6200 | Community Dev (708) 444-5100 |
| Engineered Plans | - | Required over 4 feet |
| Drainage | - | No runoff to neighbors |
| Guardrail | - | Required near walks |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Orland Park FAQ
Do I need a permit for a retaining wall in Orland Park?
Yes for most walls. Walls over 4 feet or supporting a slope/structure require engineered plans and a full permit.
Who can design a tall retaining wall in Orland Park?
Walls over 4 feet or with surcharge require drawings stamped by a licensed Illinois structural or professional engineer.
Do I need a railing on top of my retaining wall?
If the drop on the high side exceeds 30 inches and the wall is in a walking area, a guard rail is typically required by the building code.
Tinley Park FAQ
Do I need a permit for a retaining wall in Tinley Park?
Yes for walls over 4 feet tall or supporting any structure or driveway. Smaller decorative landscape walls generally do not require a permit but must not affect drainage.
Do I need an engineer for my retaining wall?
Yes for walls over 4 feet or those supporting loads. Illinois-licensed structural engineer plans are required as part of the permit application.
Can water from my wall drain to my neighbor's yard?
No. Retaining walls must be designed so stormwater does not redirect onto adjacent properties. Drainage issues can trigger village enforcement and civil liability.
Compare other topics
See how Orland Park and Tinley 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