Community Development Department
The City of West Chicago's Community Development Department provides guidance to the public on future development, current construction, property maintenance and revitalization initiatives. The Department guides the progress and growth of the City of West Chicago by providing several City services and programs.
Contact Us
- Tom Dabareiner - Community Development Director
- John Sterrett - City Planner/Assistant Director
- Stuart Caravello - Chief Building Official
- Steve Pertzborn - Senior Civil Engineer
- Rob Skerke - Civil Engineer
- Jane Burke - Administrative Assistant (630) 293-2245
- Jacki Stern - Permit Clerk (630) 818-3333
West Chicago City Hall - Community Development
475 Main Street
West Chicago, IL 60185
Office Hours: Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Phone: (630) 293-2200 ext. 141 or 131
Fax: (630) 293-3028
Email: General Email
Building Permits
The City of West Chicago requires a building permit for certain residential and commercial building projects that include new buildings or structures, remodeling, additions or alterations, and other improvements. Members of the public can apply for a residential permit or apply for a commercial building permit on the City’s website.
If you are unsure if a project needs a building permit, please call the Department at (630) 818-3333 or email buildingpermits@westchicago.org.
Code Enforcement
The City of West Chicago’s goal is to improve the appearance of business and residential areas and create a community where all those who live, work or visit can experience a sense of pride and well-being. Enforcement of the code assures that residents and owners maintain their properties in conformance with the International Property Maintenance Code.
The City’s website includes information about code enforcement, standards for maintenance of residential properties, vacant and foreclosed property registration, and common code violations.
Administrative Adjudication Process
Administrative Adjudication is a process whereby property owners issued citations for ordinance violations must attend an administrative hearing, known as Administrative Adjudication. At the hearing, the property owner may plead liable or not liable. If the hearing officer finds the property owner liable, a fine may be imposed. The Administrative Adjudication hearings are held each month in the City Hall Council Chambers. A complete Guide to the Administrative Adjudication Process is on the City's website.
Residential Rental Licensing
Landlords interested in operating a residential rental property must first obtain a Rental Property License. This Program exists to improve and maintain the safety and appearance of all rental properties within the City of West Chicago. In addition to acquiring and maintaining a Rental Property License, the City also requires annual rental inspections, which should reassure both tenants and landlords alike that their place of residence or investment property is in conformance with the International Property Maintenance Code. A complete guide to Licensing requirements is also found on the website.
Planning & Zoning Documents
Planning and Zoning guides future development in the City by implementing the City’s various long range plans - the Comprehensive Plan, (Spanish), the Strategic Plan, and the Central-Main Street Redevelopment Plan. It also guides residents, business owners, and developers through the development process by administering and enforcing the City’s development codes. Planning and Zoning also coordinates annexations and pre-annexations of unincorporated property to the City. Related maps can be accessed below: