Do you have a good handle on your scope? If you’re planning structural changes, electrical or plumbing work, or exterior modifications, you’ll need permits. For the permit application, the Chicago Department of Buildings may request architectural drawings, construction plans, and other supporting materials. An architect, engineer, and contractor will be able to help you with documents and the process.
The DoB conducts these reviews to ensure each renovation project is in compliance with building codes, zoning regulations, and other requirements. Also, the processing time for approvals vary so you’ll want to build in the appropriate amount of time.
On the other hand, if there are no changes to structure, electrical, plumbing, or HVAC, your project may qualify for the Easy Permit Program. This allows your project to skip over the plan review step of the permitting process. The qualified scope will be limited, but your permit application will move forward faster.
During construction, on-site inspections by the DoB take place at various stages during construction. Most often, they happen when inspecting electrical and plumbing work before the drywall goes up as well as during the final inspection.
It’s important to have an experienced renovation team that is up-to-date with Chicago building codes and regulations. If noncompliance is discovered, it can result in fines, work being halted, or possibly post-renovation property devaluation. Find vetted contracting firms working in Chicago’s local neighborhoods by posting your project. Our contractors will guide you through the permit process and complete the work within compliance.