Building Permits

Protect yourself from violations. Secure a permit before you start to build. Also, remember to call J.U.L.I.E. at 1(800)892-0123 at least 72 hours before doing any digging.

When a permit is required

Building permits are required for most types of home improvements, including new installations or replacements of the following: decks and porches; swimming pools; sheds; garages; driveways; fences; room additions; and other structures. Most home improvements, except for building home additions or garages, are eligible for the instant permit process.

Permits are not required for reroofing or residing, unless structural work is included.

How to apply for a permit

Permits must be applied for at the Community Development Department, Building Division at Village Hall. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

You may download a copy of the Building Permit Application to fill out before visiting the Community Development Department by clicking here.

The person applying for the permit will need to bring:

A copy of a recent plat of survey accurately showing all existing buildings and improvements and showing the proposed location on the lot of where you intend to build, including the dimensions of the structure and the distances to all lot lines.

Two copies of the proposed construction drawings. If what you are building is a prefabricated kit, submit a copy of the recommended installation instructions.

Permit Process

Permits generally take 5-10 working days to complete an initial review, and sometimes require changes to the plans before the permit can be issued. Allow enough time to get the permit approved before the day you actually want to start construction. It is best to make sure your permit is approved before purchasing building materials.

When a permit is denied

Occasionally building permit designs are denied because the proposed construction does not comply with the zoning, building or floodplain regulations.

The Zoning Ordinance recognizes that the same regulations do not affect all properties equally and therefore provides for a procedure to grant relief from the strict terms of the ordinance to property owners upon whom the ordinance has imposed undue hardship or difficulty. This procedure is referred to as a variance.

The variance procedure requires a separate application and filing fee and generally takes about 90 days to complete. The process requires a public hearing before the Zoning Board of Appeals. Applicants must produce evidence that they qualify for a variance under established criteria set forth in the ordinance.

For more information about variances, contact the Community Development Department at 543-4100, ext. 7538.

Instant Building Permits

Are you planning a small project for your home, such as a new deck, driveway or shed? Not sure of what the codes require or allow? We’re here to help you get started.

Call the Community Development Department – Building Division at 630/693-7530 for an appointment for any Tuesday or Thursday from 8 - 11 a.m. (Appointments are required.)

If you have the necessary information and meet the applicable requirements, you can probably leave with your permit in about 30 minutes!

General requirements for exterior projects include:

A current plat of survey or a site plan indicating the size and location of the proposed work, and existing improvements.

A detailed set of plans indicating the construction methods, types, and sizes of the construction materials proposed for the project.

General requirements for interior projects include:

A detailed floor plan indicating the size and location of the proposed work.

A detailed set of plans indicating the construction methods, types, and sizes of the construction materials proposed for the project.

A completed application form indicating the owners of the property, who is doing the work, and who is applying for the permit is required for exterior and interior projects. All projects require that the roofing and plumbing contractors hired to work on the site are properly licensed by the State of Illinois.