Stormwater Management: Skokie vs Tinley Park
How do stormwater management rules compare between Skokie, IL and Tinley Park, IL?
Skokie and Tinley Park have similar restriction levels.
Skokie, IL
Cook County
Skokie is subject to the Cook County Watershed Management Ordinance (WMO) administered by the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD), which regulates development-related stormwater volume, detention, and water quality. The Village also maintains local sewer and grading rules. Development over 1/2 acre of new or redevelopment impervious area triggers full WMO review.
View full Skokie rules →Tinley Park, IL
Cook County
Tinley Park is subject to the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) Watershed Management Ordinance (WMO), which regulates stormwater detention, volume control, floodplain, and wetland impacts. Development disturbing 0.5 acres or creating significant impervious surface triggers WMO permit review. The Village enforces local stormwater standards and illicit discharge prohibitions.
View full Tinley Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Skokie | Tinley Park |
|---|---|---|
| Regulator | MWRD / Cook County WMO | - |
| WMO Trigger | 0.5 acre impervious | - |
| Watershed | North Branch Chicago River | - |
| Illicit Discharge | Prohibited | Prohibited |
| Sanitary Sewer | No downspout/sump connection | - |
| Governing Rule | - | MWRD WMO |
| Trigger | - | 0.5 ac disturbance |
| Release Rate | - | 0.15 cfs/ac (100-yr) |
| Volume Control | - | First 1 inch captured |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Skokie FAQ
Who regulates stormwater in Skokie?
The Cook County Watershed Management Ordinance is administered by MWRD. Skokie Public Works also enforces local grading, drainage, and sewer use rules.
Can I tie my downspout into the sewer?
No. Connecting downspouts or sump pumps to the sanitary sewer is prohibited and contributes to combined-sewer overflows. Downspouts should discharge to pervious areas or stormwater systems.
What if my neighbor's water floods my yard?
Report to Skokie Public Works at (847) 933-8427. The Village can investigate whether drainage modifications violate local grading rules. Civil remedies may also be available.
Tinley Park FAQ
Who regulates stormwater in Tinley Park?
The MWRD Watershed Management Ordinance governs stormwater countywide, implemented locally by Tinley Park. Development over 0.5 acres or with significant impervious surface triggers WMO permits.
Do small home projects trigger stormwater review?
Typical home improvements like patios and small additions are usually below the WMO trigger, but cumulative impervious area increases may matter. Community Development reviews at permit application.
Can I wash my car in the driveway?
Occasional residential car washing is generally acceptable, but soapy water should not be directed into storm drains that flow to Tinley Creek. Commercial or fleet washing on residential property is prohibited.
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