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Development Services - Planning For Residents

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1. Can I split or subdivide my lot?

You may only subdivide if you can create conforming lots that meet all Village Codes, including lot area, width, depth, and setbacks. You can find the required size in the Land Development Code under your zoning district. Land Development Code-District Regulations

2. What is my property zoned?

Article 6 of the Land Development Code contains a Zoning Map and also outlines the requirements for your zoning district. Land Development Code, Article 6

3. Can I remove a tree on my property? In the parkway?

Conservation or Tree Easement - Trees in conservation easements or tree preservation easements cannot be removed, even if dead, without a tree removal permit.

Parkway Tree - The Public Works Department removes dead trees from the parkways twice a year. These trees are not replaced, although the Village does offer a 50/50 tree program in spring and fall that provides street trees at a discounted cost. If your tree is dead, please call (708) 403-6350 or email. Trees in parkways cannot be removed by property owners without a tree removal permit.

Tree in yard - You only need a tree removal permit for a tree in your yard if that tree is over 24" caliper, measured 4' off the ground. A tree that is 24" in caliper is essentially 6' around in circumference. Simply use a construction tape measure and wrap it around the trunk of the tree 4' off the ground to see if you need a permit or not. Tree Removal Permit

4. Why does my pond have native plantings when other ponds just have grass?

In the Village, all stormwater detention facilities are either public and maintained by the public works department, or private and maintained by a homeowners association. The Village has stringent requirements for pond design in order to reduce erosion and maintain water quality. Information and Details

5. Can I put a pool in?

It depends on the size of your backyard and your lot coverage. All pools must meet minimum setback and lot coverage requirements. Additionally, pools must be surrounded by a fence and require a permit. In-ground Pool Permits

6. Can I open a home business?

Yes, subject to certain regulations that are called out in the Land Development Code. LDC, Section 6-303 - Home Business

7. How do I keep my yard maintained during a watering ban?

With water continually becoming a precious resource, it seems that watering bans and regulations will more frequently become the norm. You can either use an alternate source of water for your lawn or utilize plants that can better handle dry conditions. Rain Barrels and Detention Ponds

8. I am currently unincorporated, can I connect to Village utilities?

In order to access Village utilities, an unincorporated parcel must be annexed. Annexation is a public hearing process and is only eligible for properties that are contiguous on one side to Village property. Additionally, the property owner is solely responsible for all required utility connections, extensions and road improvements for the land. Village policy currently does not support annexation of individual single-family lots.

9. Does the Village have any policies regarding teardowns?

Teardowns and rebuilds are allowed in the Village as long as they meet all pertinent Code requirements. New construction requires all applicable building and erosion control permits.

10. What are the implications of living next to open space?

If you live next to open space, the protected area, whether it be a park, detention pond or natural area, provides a great benefit to the value and enjoyment of your home.

Management of natural areas and pond edges may include regular burning or other such activities. It is important to restrict all yard work and accessory structures within your property lines and to avoid unauthorized private use of public land.

In some parts of the Village, residents have built structures, planted gardens, mowed or impacted the public land in other ways. The Village conducts inspections of the open spaces yearly to ensure that no property owner is extending their yard into open space areas.

11. What is a Conservation Easement and why do I have one?

Conservation Easements are recorded legal agreements that are typically used to protect open spaces with significant physical characteristics. These easements play a vital role in safeguarding native wildlife species and mature vegetation throughout the Village and State. In Orland Park, Conservation Easements are typically set up as part of a new subdivision in order to preserve existing trees, protect sensitive ecosystems like wetlands, or provide a buffer from adjacent existing development.

As a landowner, it is your responsibility to ensure that the easement is maintained in its natural state. Vegetation removal, tree removal, and encroachment of decks or patios can all be considered violations of the conservation easement. Any proposed change to the conservation easement must be approved by the Village and must enhance its natural value or be a safety/health issue. The Conservation Easement language allows for access to the area by Village officials and the Village conducts periodic inspections of the easements.

12. What kind of signs can I put on my property?

The signs allowed on residential property are outlined in detail in the Land Development Code. Section 6-307, Item O