EV Charging: Chicago vs Des Plaines
How do ev charging rules compare between Chicago, IL and Des Plaines, IL?
Des Plaines has fewer restrictions than Chicago.
Chicago, IL
Cook County
Chicago requires an electrical permit from the Department of Buildings (DOB) for every Level 2 EV charger installation on a 240-volt circuit. Single-family homes with installations under 400 amps qualify for the Easy Permit Process — a licensed Chicago electrician can file online and typically receive approval in 1 day. Permit fees range $50-$150, and a final electrical inspection is required before energizing the charger.
View full Chicago rules →Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Des Plaines permits residential EV charger installation under the Illinois Electric Vehicle Charging Act and the city's electrical permit requirements. Illinois law (765 ILCS 605/18.11) protects the right to install chargers in condominiums and HOA-governed properties.
View full Des Plaines rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chicago | Des Plaines |
|---|---|---|
| Permitting Authority | Chicago Department of Buildings (DOB) | - |
| Code | Chicago Electrical Code (Title 14E) | - |
| Permit Fee | $50-$150 (residential) | - |
| Processing Time | 1-3 business days (Easy Permit) | - |
| Contractor | Chicago-licensed electrician required | - |
| Penalty for No Permit | 200% permit fee + $200-$500/day | - |
| Electrical Permit | - | Required for Level 2 |
| State Right-to-Charge | - | 765 ILCS 605/18.11 |
| Licensed Electrician | - | Required |
| Public Chargers | - | Rivers Casino, Metra lots |
| Contact | - | CED (847) 391-5380 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Chicago FAQ
Do I need a permit for an EV charger in Chicago?
Yes. Every hardwired Level 2 (240V) EV charger installation requires a Chicago Department of Buildings electrical permit. A licensed Chicago electrician can file through the Easy Permit Process; permits are typically issued in 1-3 business days for residential installs under 400 amps.
How much does the permit cost?
$50-$150 for typical residential installations under 400 amps through the Easy Permit Process. Installations requiring service upgrades or commercial properties carry higher fees per the DOB schedule.
Can I install my own EV charger?
No. Chicago Electrical Code requires a Chicago-licensed electrical contractor to install and permit any 240V hardwired EV charger. DIY installations cannot pass the required inspection and are subject to 200% fee penalties plus daily fines.
Des Plaines FAQ
Do I need a permit to install an EV charger in Des Plaines?
Yes for any hardwired Level 2 charger. The work must be done by a licensed electrician under an electrical permit and inspected before use. A standard 120V Level 1 plug-in charger generally does not require a permit.
Can my condo or HOA stop me from installing an EV charger?
Generally no. The Illinois EV Charging Act (765 ILCS 605/18.11) gives unit owners the right to install chargers in their assigned spaces, subject to reasonable installation and insurance conditions.
Where can I publicly charge in Des Plaines?
Public chargers are available at Rivers Casino, Metropolitan Square, and several Metra commuter parking lots. Use PlugShare or ChargeHub to find current locations.
Compare other topics
See how Chicago and Des Plaines compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool