Joliet, IL Building Safety: Building Inspections (2026)

City Code Sec. 8-65 lets the inspector examine any structure, site or equipment for which a permit application has been filed even before the permit issues. Once a permit is issued, Sec. 8-66 empowers the inspector to require inspections as needed during and after the work, and bars any further construction past the point covered by the last inspection until the inspector gives written approval; the city keeps a record of every inspection and every violation found. For one- and two-family dwellings specifically, Sec. 8-67 makes four inspection stages mandatory, requested by the permit holder or agent as each step is completed: a foundation inspection after forms and reinforcing steel are set but before concrete is poured; a frame and masonry inspection after roofing, masonry, framing, firestopping and bracing are in place and electrical, chimney and vent work is complete; a lath/wallboard inspection after interior lathing or wallboard is up but before joints are taped and finished; and a plumbing, mechanical and electrical inspection made before any of that work is covered or its fixtures are set.

Sec. 8-68 requires any equipment meant to be concealed by a permanent part of the building to be inspected and approved before concealment, plus a final inspection once installation is complete, and bars connecting regulated equipment to fuel or power until it passes. Sec. 8-69 gives a narrow allowance for replacement heating equipment: it may operate if an inspection request is filed within 48 hours of the replacement and before the equipment is concealed. Sec. 8-70 requires a final building inspection, and a final test if the inspector requires one, before any certificate of use or occupancy issues; violations of the approved plans or permit found at that stage must be noted and reported to the permit holder. All five sections trace to Ord. No. 7456, § 10 (Exhibit A), adopted January 6, 1981.