Tinley Park requires building permits for retaining walls over 4 feet in height and for any wall supporting a surcharge or structure. Engineered plans are required for taller walls. Drainage cannot be directed onto neighboring properties.
Retaining walls over 4 feet tall (measured from bottom of footing to top of wall) or any wall supporting a structure, driveway, or slope require a building permit from Tinley Park Community Development. Walls over 4 feet generally require signed and sealed engineered plans from a licensed Illinois structural engineer. Smaller decorative or landscape walls under 4 feet may not require a permit but must still comply with drainage, setback, and property-line rules. Walls cannot redirect stormwater onto adjacent properties. Guardrails are required on walls adjacent to walkways or with significant drop-offs. Contact Tinley Park Community Development at (708) 444-5100.
Walls built without required permits may face stop-work orders, double permit fees, and engineering review at owner expense. Walls causing drainage damage to neighbors may result in civil liability in addition to code violations.
Tinley Park, IL
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