Residential Building Permits - City of West Chicago, Illinois

Residential Building Permits
The City of West Chicago requires a building permit for certain residential building projects that include home improvements or remodeling, and for building a new home. Completing a project that requires a building permit from the City, will include the following steps: apply for a permit, obtain your permit, begin construction, and schedule a final inspection.

If you are unsure if your project needs a building permit, please call the West Chicago Community Development Department at (630) 293-2200 (Ext 131) for assistance with determining the need for an application and required supporting documentation.

Not Sure Where to Start?

If you're unsure where to start with your construction project, please click below to view a series of guides to assist you through the process for common projects.

View Building Permit Guides

Permit Application Process

Step 1: Apply

To obtain a building permit, the City of West Chicago requires you to submit a completed Residential Building Permit Application along with accurate supporting documentation so that we can understand your project and make sure it complies with City Code. Examples of accurate supporting documentation include a scope of work, plat of survey, blueprints, elevations, floor plans, 3-D drawings, plumbing and/or electrical diagrams, manufacturer’s specifications (cut sheets), etc.

Before applying, please consult the permit guides found on this page to have a better understanding of what supporting documentation you will need to submit along with important requirements concerning your project.

Please note: If your home is part of a Homeowner’s Association, there may be additional guidelines and/or approvals for you to follow in order for a permit to be issued.

If you have questions regarding your project or the application process, please call the Community Development Department at (630) 293-2200 (Ext 131).

Apply for Residential Building Permit

Are you a Residential Contractor?

If you are a contractor pulling a permit, please complete a Contractor Registration Application and review the submittal requirements by clicking the button below.

Contractor Registration Application

Step 2: Obtain Permit

The review time for permit applications is approximately 3 to 5 business days for driveways, fences, patios and sheds; and it is approximately 10 business days for all other types of permits. You will be notified once your permit has been approved. Credit/Debit cards or checks (made payable to City of West Chicago) are acceptable forms of payment.

Payment is required at the time of pick-up for your permit.

Step 3: Begin Work

Only after obtaining your permit should you or your contractor begin work.

Please note: If construction begins without the proper permit, you will be issued a 'Stop-Work Order' and fines and increased permit fees may apply. If work has been completed without a permit, a project may be dismantled or removed.

Step 4: Schedule Inspection

Once the permit is issued, you will be informed if any City inspections are required for completion of the work. Please note that it is the builder’s—whether that is you as the homeowner or your contractor—responsibility to request all required inspections from the West Chicago Community Development Department.

Please call the Community Development Department at 630-293-2200 (extension 131) to request inspections at least 24 hours in advance to schedule an inspection for the following day.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I obtain a permit for a fence?

New fences or even replacements of existing fences (longer than 10 linear feet) require you to obtain a permit. To apply, please complete the permit application and provide us with a copy of your plat of survey. You will need to include details on the plat such as the fence location, style and height. Please allow for 3 to 5 business days for permits for fences, sheds, patios or driveways to be processed. The fee for a fence permit is $55.00.

I want to replace my asphalt driveway with concrete. Is a permit needed?

Whether you choose blacktop, concrete or brick pavers, new or replacement driveways always require a permit. Work in the public right of way (apron area between the sidewalk and the street) requires you to use a contractor registered with the City or to make a deposit that will be refunded once the work is approved. Finally, remember that gravel is not allowed. Please submit a completed permit application and a copy of your plat of survey. Please note on the survey the type of surface material to be used and draw any proposed expansion of the driveway. The application process and fee are the same as for sheds.

Do I need a permit to tear down my shed and put up a new one in the same place?

Is a permit needed to add a new service walk?

The addition or replacement of walkways on private property does not require a permit. Keep in mind that sidewalks cannot be located alongside a driveway, as this would be considered driveway widening. Permits are needed, however, if you are adding or replacing a stoop, stairs or steps to ensure step dimensions are code compliant. The application process and fee are the same as for sheds.

We plan to purchase an aboveground swimming pool for our family. Do we still need a permit for a small, inflatable pool?

Sometimes. A permit is required for any aboveground pool with a water depth of two feet (24 inches) or more. In-ground pools, on the other hand, always require a permit. To apply for a permit, please provide us with a completed application, plat of survey with location, dimensions, and setbacks from property lines and the house of the proposed pool, and manufacturer’s product specifications. The permit fee is $135.00 for above ground pools and $315.00 for in-ground. Please allow 10 working days for your permit to be reviewed.

Do I need to submit architectural plans if I want to build a new porch or deck?

No. If you are adding or replacing a deck, porch, pergola, canopy, or three-season room, please provide us with a completed building permit application, plat of survey to indicate the proposed location and drawings to include foundation, footings, construction type and any electrical or mechanical diagrams if applicable. We will evaluate your project and ensure it meets building code. Plan review time takes 10 working days and the permit fees range from $105.00 to $135.00.