The City of Joliet limits lot coverage by all roofed structures to no more than 30% of the total lot area. This limit excludes driveways, sidewalks, pools, decks/patios, and fences. The lot coverage requirement is part of the Zoning Ordinance and is enforced during the building permit review process.
Joliet's lot coverage regulations are established in the Zoning Ordinance as part of the development standards for residential zones. All roofed structures on a residential lot, including the principal dwelling, attached garages, and accessory structures such as sheds and detached garages, must not cover more than 30% of the total lot area. Unroofed improvements including driveways, sidewalks, swimming pools, decks, patios, and fences are excluded from the lot coverage calculation. The Community Development Department verifies lot coverage compliance during the building permit application process. Property owners seeking to add structures that would exceed the 30% limit may apply for a variance through the Zoning Board of Appeals. Accurate lot surveys may be required when lot coverage is close to the maximum allowed.
Construction that exceeds the 30% lot coverage limit without a variance may result in stop-work orders, permit denial, or required removal of non-conforming structures.
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See how Joliet's lot coverage limits rules stack up against other locations.
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