Floodplain / Storm Water Information

Watershed Development Permit

The Lake County Watershed Development Ordinance (WDO) Permit is required when a project is located in a floodplain or flood-prone area; may impact a wetland; will hydrologically disturb more than 5000 square feet; or will modify the site drainage.

Flood Insurance Rate Maps

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) publishes Flood Insurance Rate maps, or FIRMS, that depict floodplain boundaries. Further explanation of this information is available on the FEMA website.

Stormwater Management Commission

The Lake County Stormwater Management Commission (SMC) was established in 1991 through state legislation to coordinate stormwater management activities from a countywide and interjurisdictional perspective. The main components of their program are:

  • Flood damage reduction through flood hazard mitigation projects, and implementing best management practices (BMPs), watershed management plans and effective floodplain and stormwater management regulations
  • Managing Lake County's floodplains and watersheds by administering countywide floodplain and stormwater management standards
  • Natural resource protection and restoration by utilizing a mix of funding sources and partnerships to restore and enhance the natural drainage system

Resources

Notice To Construct in a Floodplain

If your project involves any soil disturbance on a property located within a designated floodplain, you must first obtain approval from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) before submitting a permit application to the Village of Fox Lake. This applies to projects such as decks, patios, fences, new structures, and similar work. Permit applications and instructions can be found here on the IDNR website.

The Village of Fox Lake can assist in determining if the location of the project is in a floodplain. For additional questions, or to begin the approval process, please contact the IDNR representative for our area:

Heather McGowan
Email: Heather.McGowan@Illinois.gov
 Phone: (847) 608-3170

All questions about IDNR permits, application requirements, or fees should be directed to her.

Once you receive documentation from IDNR—either a permit, a letter stating no permit is required, or confirmation that your project is covered under a statewide permit—please submit that documentation along with the following to permit@foxlake.org:

  • A completed Village of Fox Lake permit application
  • Drawings and/or plans
  • Specifications and a clear scope of work

If you have questions about the Village’s permit process, please contact the Community Development Office at (847) 587-3176.