Evanston, IL Building Safety: Electrical Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Adopted code
- 2020 National Electrical Code
- Permit fees
- Set by separate Council ordinance
- Generator fee
- Same as equivalent service size
- Contractor registration
- Required under § 4-2-3
- Owner-installer
- Allowed with affidavit, single-family only
Summary
Evanston has adopted the 2020 National Electrical Code by reference under City Code Section 4-6-1, with permit fees for electrical work set by City Council under Section 4-6-4.
Pursuant to the authority granted by 65 ILCS 5/1-2-4, and pursuant to its home rule powers, the City of Evanston hereby adopts by reference the 2020 National Electrical Code, with the additions, deletions, exceptions, and other amendments set forth in this Chapter. All advisory or text notes, other than the rules and regulations contained in the 2020 National Electrical Code adopted hereby, are expressly excluded from this Chapter.(B)Any reference in the 2020 National Electrical Code to "Administrative Authority," "Building Official" or "Code Official" shall refer to the City's Manager of Building and Inspection Services Division. Any reference to "municipality" shall mean the City of Evanston.(C)In the event that any provision of the 2020 National Electrical Code adopted hereby is in conflict with any provision(s) of the City Code, the more/most stringent shall control.(D)There shall be a copy of the 2020 National Electrical Code kept on file for public inspection in the City Clerk's office. (Ord. No. 29-O-22, § 6(Exh. E), 4-25-2022)
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 21).
Full Breakdown
City Code Section 4-6-1 adopts the 2020 National Electrical Code under the city's home rule authority, governing all wiring, fixtures, and service equipment in existing and proposed buildings. Section 4-6-4 sets electrical permit fees by separate Council ordinance rather than in the code text, including a rule that standby generators pay the same fee as an equivalent-size electrical service. Contractors must also register with the Building Official under Section 4-2-3, though owner-occupants of single-family homes may do their own wiring after filing a compliance affidavit.
Violations & Fines
Electrical Code violations carry the citywide fine schedule: $150 first offense, $400 second, $750 third and beyond, each day a separate violation; unpermitted work adds a fine equal to 50% of the permit fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Sources & Official References
Other rules in Evanston
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How other cities in Cook County handle electrical permits.