Evanston requires stormwater management for new development and substantial improvements. Projects disturbing more than 5,000 square feet of land or adding significant impervious surface must provide on-site stormwater detention. The city follows Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) watershed management ordinance standards.
Evanston enforces stormwater management through its city code and compliance with the MWRD Watershed Management Ordinance (WMO). Development projects that disturb 5,000 square feet or more, or increase impervious surface by more than 2,500 square feet, must provide stormwater detention or retention on-site. The release rate must not exceed pre-development conditions. MWRD requires detention volume of 1 inch per square foot of new impervious area for developments between 0.5 and 1 acre, with increasing requirements for larger projects. A stormwater management plan prepared by a licensed engineer is required for permit approval. Green infrastructure solutions such as bioswales, rain gardens, permeable pavers, and green roofs are encouraged and may satisfy part of the detention requirement. Evanston participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and regulates development in Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs). Downspout disconnection from combined sewers is encouraged citywide to reduce basement flooding. Contact the Public Works Department at (847) 448-4311 for stormwater permit requirements.
Failure to install required stormwater management facilities is a building code violation that can prevent certificate of occupancy issuance. Unauthorized discharge to the storm sewer system may result in fines. Altering approved stormwater facilities without permission can result in enforcement action and restoration orders. Non-compliance with MWRD requirements may trigger county-level enforcement.
Evanston, IL
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Evanston, IL
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Evanston, IL
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Evanston, IL
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Evanston, IL
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Cook County.
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