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.
Oak Lawn's grading and drainage rules protect properties from flooding and water damage. Requirements include positive slope (typically minimum 2%) away from building foundations for at least 10 feet; no net increase in runoff discharged to neighboring properties; preservation of existing drainage swales and overland flow paths; and for new construction or major additions, a grading plan prepared by a licensed surveyor or engineer showing existing and proposed elevations. Downspouts should discharge a safe distance from the foundation, ideally to splash blocks, extensions, or where feasible, connected to overland flow leading to the street. Direct downspout connections to sanitary sewer are prohibited. Sump pumps must discharge to the yard (not sanitary sewer) and not onto neighboring properties. Oak Lawn requires final grading inspection before issuance of a certificate of occupancy. Retaining walls over a certain height require structural engineering.
Drainage violations that cause water damage to neighboring properties can result in code enforcement action, private civil liability, and orders to regrade. Fines from $75 per day for violations after notice.
Oak Lawn, IL
Oak Lawn relies primarily on a plainly-audible standard for residential noise enforcement, with numerical decibel limits applying to commercial and industria...
Oak Lawn, IL
Oak Lawn regulates residential driveways through its zoning and building codes. Driveways must be paved with concrete, asphalt, brick, or approved pavers, me...
Oak Lawn, IL
Oak Lawn does not recognize the Chicago 'dibs' tradition of saving shoveled parking spaces with chairs, cones, or other objects. Placing items in the public ...
Oak Lawn, IL
Oak Lawn requires all swimming pools capable of holding more than 24 inches of water to be enclosed by a barrier at least 4 feet high with self-closing, self...
Oak Lawn, IL
Oak Lawn prohibits barbed wire, razor wire, and electrified fencing in residential districts. Chain link, wood, vinyl, and ornamental metal are generally per...
Oak Lawn, IL
Oak Lawn requires all dogs to be leashed when off their owner's property. Cook County requires all dogs over 4 months old to have a current rabies vaccinatio...
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