High, with proper planning, tools, and understanding of local code requirements.
Relatively low complexity; however, proper foundation, material selection, and adherence to DuPage County's specific grade/drainage principles and frost depth considerations are crucial for longevity and code compliance. Integration with existing utilities or structures, particularly those protected by the 42-inch frost depth standard in DuPage County, may increase complexity.
Project Guidelines & Rules
General Project & Permit Requirements
2 Rules
Permit Requirements
Consult with your local building department prior to commencement of work. Small, non-structural hardscape edging projects typically do not require a separate building permit unless they involve significant earth disturbance, retaining walls over 48 inches in height (IRC R404.1.2), or impact drainage patterns onto adjacent properties.
Local Amendments & Inspections
Always verify any specific local amendments to the IRC, NEC, or Illinois Plumbing Code with your local building department, as DuPage County municipalities may adopt stricter standards or have unique requirements for landscaping features or inspections.
Site Preparation, Grading, and Drainage
2 Rules
Grading and Drainage
Site grading shall be performed to direct surface runoff away from structures and prevent water accumulation, preventing adverse impacts on adjacent properties. Minimum 5% slope away from structures for at least 10 feet where feasible. IRC R401.3.
Erosion Control
Measures to control erosion during and after construction shall be implemented to prevent sediment runoff into public storm sewers or adjacent properties. IRC R105.2.
Material Specifications & Installation
2 Rules
Edging Materials
Materials shall be durable and suitable for exterior ground contact, resistant to DuPage County's severe freeze-thaw cycles. Acceptable materials include concrete, natural stone, composite lumber, or engineered plastic products. Follow manufacturer's specifications for installation.
Foundation & Bedding
Hardscape edging shall be installed on a stable, compacted base appropriate for the material and expected load. A minimum 4-inch compacted granular base (e.g., crushed limestone) is generally recommended, following manufacturer specifications. Avoid installation over uncontrolled fill.
Protection of Underground Utilities
4 Rules
Utility Locating
Prior to any excavation, 'JULIE' (Joint Utility Locating Information for Excavators) must be contacted at least 48 hours (excluding weekends and holidays) in advance to locate and mark all underground utilities. Digging without locating utilities is strictly prohibited. Illinois Underground Utility Facilities Damage Prevention Act (220 ILCS 50/1 et seq.).
Clearances for Electrical Conductors
Underground electrical conductors shall maintain proper cover and separation. Edging installations shall not disturb or compromise the integrity of existing electrical lines. Adhere to NEC Table 300.5 for minimum cover requirements where excavation occurs near electrical lines.
Clearances for Plumbing Lines
Underground water service and drainage piping shall not be undermined or damaged during hardscape edging installation. Maintain required clearances from other utilities as per local utility provider and Illinois Plumbing Code. Refer to IL Plumbing Code 890.1130 for protection of building sewers and 890.1140 for water service pipes.
Protection of Existing Utilities
Excavation near existing utilities must be performed with extreme caution, often requiring hand digging within 18 inches of marked lines ('tolerance zone'). Any exposed utility lines must be protected from damage during backfill operations. IL Plumbing Code 890.320.
DuPage County Specific Considerations
1 Rules
Frost Depth Awareness (Indirect Impact)
While hardscape edging itself is not typically frost-protected to the 42-inch depth, ensure that any excavation for edging does not undermine footings of adjacent frost-protected structures (e.g., house foundations, detached garages, accessory structures). Maintain adequate separation or consult with a qualified engineer if close proximity to a foundation is unavoidable. DuPage County generally mandates a minimum 42-inch frost depth for structural foundations. IRC R403.1.4.1.