Renovation Permits: Chicago vs Des Plaines
How do renovation permits rules compare between Chicago, IL and Des Plaines, IL?
Chicago has fewer restrictions than Des Plaines.
Chicago, IL
Cook County
Most renovation work in Chicago requires a building permit from the Department of Buildings. Permits are required for new construction, major repairs, alterations, additions, and renovations. Cosmetic work (painting, flooring) is exempt. Permit fees are calculated based on project valuation.
View full Chicago rules →Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Des Plaines requires building permits for most interior and exterior renovations including additions, kitchen/bath remodels with plumbing or electrical changes, roof replacement, siding, windows, HVAC, and electrical service upgrades. The city follows the International Code Council family of codes.
View full Des Plaines rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chicago | Des Plaines |
|---|---|---|
| Online Portal | IPI Portal (ipi.cityofchicago.org) | - |
| Easy Permit | Expedited for smaller projects | - |
| Aldermanic Notice | 10-day period (waivable) | - |
| Violation Fine | $500-$1,000 per day | - |
| Permit Office | - | Community Development |
| Code Family | - | ICC (IBC, IRC, IPC, IECC) |
| Contractors | - | Must be city-registered |
| Inspections | - | Multiple stages |
| Pre-1978 Lead Rules | - | Apply to RRP work |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Chicago FAQ
What renovations need a permit in Chicago?
Most structural, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work requires a permit. This includes removing walls, replacing windows, reroofing, and electrical rewiring. Painting, flooring, and cabinet replacement are exempt.
How do I apply for a renovation permit in Chicago?
Use the Department of Buildings' IPI Portal at ipi.cityofchicago.org. Some smaller projects qualify for the Easy Permit program with expedited processing. Most permits require the 10-day aldermanic notification period.
Des Plaines FAQ
Do I need a permit to remodel my Des Plaines kitchen?
Yes, if the work involves plumbing, electrical, or structural changes. Cosmetic work (paint, flooring, cabinet replacement without re-routing utilities) may be exempt.
Do I need a permit to replace my roof?
Yes. Roof replacement requires a building permit and inspection. Contractor must be city-registered.
What if I do unpermitted work?
Unpermitted work risks citations, double fees, removal, voided insurance claims, and complications when selling. After-the-fact permits are usually possible but expensive.
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