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.
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).
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.

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.