Prior to any construction a Permit is required
Electronic Permits are available on specific projects. For a list of permits that can be filed online please click here: e-permits
Please note that all permit requirements must be met in order to complete an application. Please review the official circular of the desired permit for more details.
If the scope of work requires a combination of two or more from this list of permits please proceed by submitting your permit application via email at intake.bnz@cookcountyil.gov
New decks, porches and gazebos require a building permit. Some repair work and/or replacement will also require a permit. If repairing or replacing a non-conforming deck, porch or gazebo, it will have to be brought into compliance with Cook County Building codes and Zoning Ordinance.
A "driveway" is a pathway for motor vehicles from a street to a structure used for service purposes or for access to the structure. All driveways require a permit. If a new curb cut is requested or replacement of an apron area in public right-of-way, the township Highway commissioner’s letter of approval/waiver is required.
A "fence" as per the Cook County Zoning Ordinance, is a structure which is a barrier and is used as a boundary, screen, separation, and a means of privacy, protection or confinement and is constructed of wood, plastic, metal, wire mesh, masonry or other similar material.
Flatwork includes all gravel, asphalt, concrete or paver brick work located along a horizontal plane. This includes patios, sidewalks, stoops and driveways (no curb cut required)
Permits are required for installing generators.
A private residential in-ground swimming pool shall mean a manmade basin or receptacle for water having a depth in excess of 18 inches or more, constructed of concrete, steel or other approved materials, and shall have an impervious finish. The bottom surface shall be smooth, to facilitate cleaning, and shall slope to the main drain. The intended use of a private residential in-ground pool shall be for swimming, wading or bathing exclusively by the home owner or occupant of the land or premise, his family and guests. A pool permit will require Cook County Health Department approval prior to applying with Building and Zoning.
A private residential above ground swimming pool shall mean a manmade rigid or semi-rigid structure, basin or receptacle for water having a depth in excess of 24 inches or more at any point or with a surface area exceeding 250 square feet (17.11-15), whose framework is installed primarily above ground elevation. The intended use of a private residential above ground pool shall be for swimming, wading or bathing exclusively by the home owner or occupant of the land or premise, his family and guests. A pool permit will require Cook County Health Department approval prior to applying with Building and Zoning.
Permit is required when replacing a roof. Please note that structural repairs or alterations, drain or exhaust fan replacements will require a full permit.
A permit is required for installation of rooftop solar panels on all residential rooftops.
A permit is required for all new sheds/detached garages. This also includes prefabricated or modular sheds or outdoor storage structures above 4’-0". When repairing or replacing an existing non-conforming structure, a variance will be needed to bring it into compliance with Cook County building codes and Zoning Ordinance. A shed or detached garage larger than 144 square feet will require electrical service.
A "sign" is a name, identification, description, display or illustration which is affixed to or placed directly or indirectly upon or adjacent to buildings, structures or zoning lots and which directs attention to objects, products, places, activities, persons, institutions, organizations or businesses. However, signs shall not include any display of official court or public office notices nor shall signs include flags, emblems or insignias of nations, political units, schools or religious groups. Signs as defined here do not include signs located completely within an enclosed building
A Spa permit will require Cook County Health Department approval.
A "tent" is any structure or enclosure, the roof of which and/or one-half or more of the sides, are constructed of silk, cotton, canvas, fabric or a similar light material.
In order to enforce the Energy Code of Illinois (International Energy Conservation Code), a permit is required to replace windows and doors regardless of size and type or whether modifications are made to the window or door opening/s or not.