Cook County, IL Environmental Rules: Erosion Control (2026)
Key Facts
- Scope
- Unincorporated Cook County only
- Trigger
- Grading, filling, clearing or disturbance
- Reviewing agency
- Dept. of Building and Zoning
- Plan preparer
- Licensed architect, engineer, or surveyor
- Penalty
- At least $1,000 per violation
Summary
In unincorporated Cook County, grading, filling, clearing or otherwise disturbing land tied to a building or special-use permit requires an approved Soil Erosion and Sediment Control Plan from the Building Commissioner before that permit is issued (Code § 118-22).
In instances where building or special use permits are required, before land is tilled, cleared, filled, graded, transported or otherwise disturbed for any reason, by any person, said person shall submit a "Soil Erosion and Sediment Control Plan" to the Cook County Department of Building and Zoning for approval by the Building Commissioner before said permits will be granted.
Full Breakdown
Cook County's Soil Erosion and Sediment Control ordinance covers unincorporated Cook County land that is excavated, filled, cleared, or has its topography changed (Code § 118-21). Anyone whose project needs a building or special-use permit must first submit a Soil Erosion and Sediment Control Plan to the Department of Building and Zoning for the Building Commissioner's approval, before that permit is issued (Code § 118-22). The plan, prepared by a licensed architect, engineer, landscape architect or surveyor (Code § 118-24), must show existing and proposed topography, storm sewers and drainage, and erosion controls like diversions or grade stabilization structures (Code § 118-25). Single-family pools, additions and septic excavations are exempt.
Violations & Fines
A Code violation under Chapter 1 carries a fine of at least $1,000, and continuing violations count as a separate offense each day they persist (Code § 1-10).
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Chicago have to follow this grading permit rule?
Can the erosion control plan be waived?
What must the erosion control plan show?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Cook County
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