Chicago, IL Building Safety: Plumbing Permits (2026)

Chicago's Plumbing Code (Municipal Code Ch. 18-29) doesn't set its own separate permit process, it points straight at the building permit chapter. Section 18-29-106.1 says permits for plumbing work go through Chapter 14A-4 of the Municipal Code, and the person doing the work must hold a license under Chapters 4-28, 4-332, and 4-336. That means an unlicensed handyman or a homeowner can't legally pull a plumbing permit and do the work themselves the way they might for minor cosmetic repairs, Chicago requires a licensed plumber or licensed apprentice plumber on the job. Violating any part of Chapter 18-29, including working without the required permit or license, is enforced and penalized under Chapter 14A-3.