Moderate. Requires significant physical labor, potential equipment rental (e.g., trencher, mini-excavator), understanding of site grading, and strict adherence to code requirements for pipe slope, materials, and discharge. Professional installation is recommended for optimal performance and code compliance.
The project involves significant excavation, precise grading for effective water flow, and careful material layering. While not structurally complex, adherence to specific code requirements for subsoil drains, frost protection, and site drainage is critical in DuPage County.
Project Guidelines & Rules
Permitting and Planning
3 Rules
Obtain all required permits from your local building department prior to commencing work.
2024 IRC R105.1
Prepare and submit detailed construction documents including a site plan showing the proposed drainage path, pipe sizing, discharge location, and final grading plan.
2024 IRC R106.1
Contact J.U.L.I.E. (Joint Utility Locating Information for Excavators) at 811 a minimum of 48 hours prior to any excavation to mark existing underground utilities.
Illinois Underground Utility Facilities Damage Prevention Act (Mandatory Safety Practice)
Excavation and Trenching
3 Rules
Trench dimensions shall be sufficient to accommodate the drain pipe, aggregate bedding, and filter fabric, allowing for proper installation and maintenance of required slope.
Illinois Plumbing Code 890.320(b)
The trench bottom shall be graded to a continuous uniform slope of not less than 1/8 inch per foot (1%) towards the designated discharge point.
Illinois Plumbing Code 890.1410(f)
Maintain appropriate separation distances from foundations, property lines, and existing structures, ensuring the stability of adjacent elements and compliance with local zoning ordinances.
2024 IRC R401.3 (General Site Drainage); Local Zoning Ordinances (Applicable)
Drainage Pipe and Materials
4 Rules
Use approved perforated pipe (e.g., PVC, corrugated polyethylene) conforming to applicable ASTM standards (e.g., ASTM D2729, F405, F891) for subsoil drainage.
Illinois Plumbing Code 890.1410(c)
The perforated drain pipe shall be surrounded by a minimum of 6 inches of clean, washed aggregate (e.g., gravel, crushed stone) free from organic matter and fine particles.
Illinois Plumbing Code 890.1410(e)
An approved filter membrane (geotextile fabric) shall be installed to prevent the migration of fine soil particles into the aggregate and drainage pipe, ensuring long-term system functionality.
Illinois Plumbing Code 890.1410(d)
Install drain pipe with perforations oriented downwards to maximize collection efficiency and minimize clogging.
Illinois Plumbing Code 890.1410(f) (Implied best practice for subsoil drains)
Grading and Backfill
3 Rules
The finished grade adjacent to the foundation shall slope away at a minimum of 6 inches in the first 10 feet.
2024 IRC R401.3
Backfill materials shall be free of organic debris and compacted in lifts to prevent future settlement and maintain positive drainage away from the structure.
Illinois Plumbing Code 890.320(d); 2024 IRC R403.1.6 (Related to foundation backfill)
All disturbed areas must be stabilized immediately upon project completion with appropriate ground cover or landscaping to prevent erosion.
2024 IRC R401.3
Discharge and Outfall
3 Rules
Subsoil drains shall discharge to an approved storm sewer, drywell, absorption field, or other approved point of disposal that prevents erosion, nuisance conditions, or adverse impacts on adjacent properties.
Illinois Plumbing Code 890.1410(h)
The discharge pipe shall be a solid, non-perforated pipe that extends to the approved point of disposal.
Illinois Plumbing Code 890.1410(g)
The discharge point must be protected against rodents and other foreign matter, and remain free from obstruction.
Illinois Plumbing Code 890.1410(h)
Frost Protection (DuPage County Climate)
2 Rules
Any portion of the drainage system that carries water and is exposed to freezing temperatures, or whose failure could undermine adjacent structures, shall be protected from frost. The minimum frost depth in DuPage County is 42 inches.
2024 IRC R301.2 (Climatic and geographic design criteria, frost line depth)
Ensure that discharge pipes are adequately sloped and drain completely, or are buried below the frost line, to prevent freezing and blockage during winter months.
2024 IRC R301.2; Illinois Plumbing Code 890.1410(f)
Electrical Considerations (If Applicable)
2 Rules
If an electric sump pump or any other electrical equipment is integrated into the drainage system, all wiring, connections, and equipment installations shall comply with the National Electrical Code.
2023 NEC Chapters 1-8 (e.g., NEC 210 for branch circuits, NEC 250 for grounding, NEC 300 for wiring methods, NEC 430 for motors)
Any underground electrical wiring near or crossing the French drain trench shall be installed and protected in accordance with underground wiring provisions.
2023 NEC 300.5 (Underground Installations)
