High, but requires strict adherence to code, particularly regarding excavation depth, discharge location, and proper electrical safety protocols. A competent homeowner with basic plumbing and excavation skills can undertake this project, but electrical work should be performed or verified by a qualified individual.
This project involves straightforward excavation, plumbing, and basic electrical considerations. Adherence to clear code requirements for frost depth, discharge location, and electrical safety is paramount for DuPage County installations.
Project Guidelines & Rules
Administrative & Permitting
3 Rules
Permit Requirement
Prior to commencement of work, a permit shall be obtained from your local building department. This ensures compliance with all applicable codes and local ordinances.
Required Inspections
Necessary inspections, which may include a rough-in (prior to backfill) and a final inspection, must be scheduled with your local building department. Do not conceal work until inspected and approved.
Site Plan Submission
A detailed site plan indicating the proposed discharge line route, termination point, distances to property lines, and existing structures shall be submitted with the permit application. This assists in verifying proper discharge location.
Discharge Location & Site Drainage
4 Rules
Discharge Termination Point
Discharge shall be directed to an approved location that prevents re-entry into the building, accumulation of water against foundations, flooding of adjacent properties, or erosion. Termination shall be a minimum of 20 feet from any property line or public right-of-way, and a minimum of 10 feet from any building foundation. (IL Plumbing Code 1105.1, IRC R401.3)
Prohibited Discharge Points
Discharge into sanitary sewers, septic systems, public streets, alleys, or storm sewers without explicit approval from the authority having jurisdiction is strictly prohibited. (IL Plumbing Code 802.1, 1105.1)
Site Grading at Discharge
The surrounding finished grade at the discharge termination point shall be sloped away from the building foundation at a minimum of 5% for at least 10 feet to ensure positive drainage. (2024 IRC R401.3)
Erosion Protection
Discharge points shall be equipped with an appropriate splash block, pop-up emitter, or other approved means to dissipate water flow and prevent soil erosion.
Piping Materials & Assembly
4 Rules
Pipe Material
Discharge piping shall be rigid PVC (Schedule 40 minimum), ABS (Schedule 40 minimum), or HDPE, rated for underground use and capable of withstanding anticipated pressure and DuPage County's temperature fluctuations. (IL Plumbing Code 802.4.3)
Pipe Diameter
The minimum pipe diameter for sump pump discharge lines shall be 1 1/2 inches, with 2 inches being recommended for optimal flow, reduced potential for clogging, and increased pump longevity. (IL Plumbing Code 802.4.3)
Check Valve Installation
An approved check valve shall be installed on the discharge line to prevent backflow of water into the sump pit once the pump cycles off. (IL Plumbing Code 802.4.4)
Weep Hole / Air Relief
A 3/16 inch to 1/4 inch diameter weep hole (air relief hole) shall be drilled into the discharge pipe below the check valve, approximately 6 inches above the pump impeller, to prevent airlock and ensure proper pump operation.
Excavation & Frost Protection
4 Rules
Burial Depth (Frost Protection)
All portions of the discharge line, particularly where it exits the building foundation and where it traverses frost-susceptible soil, shall be buried a minimum of 42 inches below final grade to prevent freezing. Exposed portions at the termination may be above grade if protected from damage and freezing. (2024 IRC R301.2.1, DuPage County Frost Depth Standard)
Pipe Slope
The discharge line shall maintain a continuous downward slope of at least 1/8 inch per foot (1%) away from the building to ensure proper drainage and prevent standing water from freezing within the pipe. (IL Plumbing Code 1102.4.2)
Foundation Penetration Sealing
Penetrations through the building foundation shall be sealed with an approved, waterproof material to prevent water, soil gas, and pest entry. Flexible couplings or sleeves may be required to accommodate differential settlement between the pipe and foundation. (2024 IRC R405.2.1)
Backfill Requirements
Backfill material around the buried pipe shall be free of large rocks, construction debris, or sharp objects that could damage the pipe. Backfill shall be compacted in layers to prevent future settlement of the trench. (2024 IRC R405.2.1)
Electrical Requirements (for Sump Pump)
4 Rules
GFCI Protection
All 125-volt, 15- and 20-ampere receptacles serving sump pumps located in basements, garages, or crawl spaces shall be ground-fault circuit-interrupter (GFCI) protected. (2023 NEC 210.8(A)(4), (A)(5), (A)(6))
Dedicated Branch Circuit
A dedicated 15-ampere or 20-ampere branch circuit is strongly recommended and often required by local amendment for sump pumps to prevent nuisance tripping and ensure reliable operation during critical weather events. (2023 NEC 210.11(C))
Receptacle Location
If cord-and-plug connected, the receptacle shall be of the grounding type and located within reach of the pump's factory-supplied power cord without requiring an extension cord. (2023 NEC 406.4(D))
Wiring Methods
All electrical wiring and connections for the sump pump shall comply with 2023 NEC Chapter 3, including proper conductor sizing, overcurrent protection, and approved wiring methods suitable for damp or wet locations.
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