Grading & Drainage: Skokie vs Tinley Park
How do grading & drainage rules compare between Skokie, IL and Tinley Park, IL?
Skokie and Tinley Park have similar restriction levels.
Skokie, IL
Cook County
Skokie requires that lot drainage be managed so that stormwater flows to public streets, alleys, or storm sewers and does not adversely affect neighboring properties. Grading plans are reviewed by Public Works and Community Development for new construction, additions, and major landscaping projects. Alterations that redirect water onto neighbors violate the municipal code.
View full Skokie rules →Tinley Park, IL
Cook County
Tinley Park regulates grading and drainage on residential properties to prevent water from being directed onto neighboring lots or creating flooding. Minor grade changes typically do not require a permit, but substantial grading requires a permit and must not alter established drainage patterns. Sump pump and downspout discharge must be directed to lawns or storm sewer, not onto neighbors or sanitary sewer.
View full Tinley Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Skokie | Tinley Park |
|---|---|---|
| Positive Drainage | Away from structures | - |
| Neighbor Drainage | Cannot redirect harmfully | - |
| Downspouts | Not to sanitary sewer | Splash to lawn |
| Retaining Walls | Engineered over 4 ft | - |
| Minimum Slope | 2% from foundation | - |
| Permit | - | Large grading yes |
| Drainage Pattern | - | Preserve established |
| Sump Discharge | - | Lawn or storm sewer |
| Sanitary Sewer | - | Discharge prohibited |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Skokie FAQ
Do I need a permit to regrade my yard?
Major grading, retaining wall construction, or projects that change drainage patterns may require a permit. Minor landscaping without altered drainage typically does not. Contact Community Development before significant projects.
My neighbor's drainage is flooding my yard. What can I do?
Report to Skokie Public Works at (847) 933-8427. The Village can investigate whether modifications violate drainage rules. Civil remedies are also available through private legal action.
Where should my sump pump discharge?
To your own property, ideally toward the street, alley, or storm inlet. It may not connect to the sanitary sewer, and the discharge cannot be concentrated onto neighboring property.
Tinley Park FAQ
Can I regrade my yard in Tinley Park?
Minor leveling is typically fine without a permit. Substantial grading, retaining walls, or changes that redirect water flow require a grading permit and review to ensure neighbors are not adversely affected.
Where should my sump pump discharge?
Sump pumps must discharge to your own lawn at least 5 feet from the foundation, or to the storm sewer with Village approval. Discharge to the sanitary sewer is prohibited and should be disconnected if discovered.
My neighbor's drainage floods my yard — what can I do?
Start with a conversation. If unresolved, contact Code Enforcement at (708) 444-5100 to investigate. Persistent issues may require a civil nuisance action under Illinois reasonable use principles.
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