Skokie, IL Environmental Rules: Stormwater Management (2026)

The Cook County Watershed Management Ordinance (WMO), effective May 1, 2014 and updated periodically, is administered by MWRD and applies to new development and redevelopment in Skokie. Projects creating or redeveloping 1/2 acre or more of impervious area require detention, volume control, and water quality treatment. Smaller projects may still be subject to Village grading and drainage review to prevent adverse impacts on neighbors. Skokie's Public Works Department reviews grading plans and requires that lot drainage direct water to street, alley, or storm sewer and not onto neighboring properties. The Village sits in the North Branch Chicago River watershed, and stormwater that is not detained contributes to regional flooding. Skokie has implemented its own flood mitigation investments including sewer separation and upsizing projects following significant flood events. Illicit discharges to the storm sewer (vehicle wash water, paint, concrete washout, etc.) are prohibited under the WMO and Village code. Sump pump discharges may be directed to the surface but cannot concentrate water onto neighboring property. Downspouts must discharge onto pervious surfaces where possible and may not tie into the sanitary sewer.