High (with proper safety precautions and adherence to code principles regarding utility protection and drainage).
Basic overseeding and core aeration are generally low-impact landscaping activities. Code implications are primarily related to maintaining proper site drainage, preventing damage to existing utilities, and ensuring water system safety if temporary irrigation is used. Major structural, electrical, or plumbing alterations are not typically involved under standard procedures, aligning with DuPage County building standards for minor landscape maintenance.
Project Guidelines & Rules
Site Drainage and Grading
2 Rules
Maintain positive surface drainage to ensure water flows away from building foundations and adjacent properties, minimizing potential for water intrusion, foundation damage, and frost heave, which is particularly important in DuPage County with its 42-inch frost depth.
2024 IRC R401.3
Prevent soil erosion and sediment runoff during and after soil disturbance, especially on sloped areas or near public ways and stormwater drainage systems, to maintain site stability and protect surrounding infrastructure.
2024 IRC R401.3
Electrical System Protection
2 Rules
Exercise extreme caution and verify locations of existing underground electrical conductors, cables, and equipment (e.g., landscape lighting, invisible fence wiring, irrigation controls) before and during core aeration and any ground-disturbing activities to prevent damage.
2023 NEC 300.5(B)
Ensure any newly installed or modified outdoor electrical components for related irrigation systems or landscape features comply with requirements for wet/damp locations, appropriate conductor sizing, and Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupter (GFCI) protection for personnel safety.
2023 NEC 210.8(A)(3), 406.9
Water System Protection and Cross-Connection Control
2 Rules
Implement approved backflow prevention devices (e.g., atmospheric vacuum breakers, pressure vacuum breakers) on all connections from the potable water supply to temporary or permanent irrigation systems, hose bibs used for irrigation, or any non-potable outdoor water uses to prevent contamination of the public water supply.
Illinois Plumbing Code Section 890.1130
Protect existing underground water service lines, irrigation lines, and drain lines from physical damage during core aeration and other landscaping work. Any damage must be repaired promptly and in accordance with code requirements.
Illinois Plumbing Code Section 890.210
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