Des Plaines requires a building permit for retaining walls, with engineered designs typically required for walls over 4 feet in height as required by the International Residential Code adopted by the city. Walls must comply with drainage and easement requirements.
Des Plaines has adopted editions of the International Residential Code and International Building Code that require building permits for retaining walls and stamped engineering plans for walls over 4 feet in unbalanced fill height. Smaller landscape walls may need permits depending on location, drainage impact, and proximity to property lines. Retaining walls cannot direct surface drainage onto neighboring property and must not be constructed in drainage easements without city approval. Walls in the floodplain along the Des Plaines River require additional review under the city's flood damage prevention ordinance. Contact Community and Economic Development at (847) 391-5380 for permits.
Building a retaining wall without required permits or engineering may result in stop-work orders, fines of $100 to $500, and required removal or rebuilding. Walls causing drainage problems for neighbors may also trigger civil claims.
Des Plaines, IL
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