Renovation Permits: Des Plaines vs Tinley Park
How do renovation permits rules compare between Des Plaines, IL and Tinley Park, IL?
Des Plaines and Tinley Park have similar restriction levels.
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 →Tinley Park, IL
Cook County
Most interior and exterior renovations in Tinley Park require a building permit, including structural changes, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, roofing, siding, and windows. Cosmetic-only work typically does not require a permit.
View full Tinley Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Des Plaines | Tinley Park |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Issuing Office | - | Community Development |
| Permit Scope | - | Structural, MEP, exterior |
| Contractor Registration | - | Required |
| Cosmetic Exception | - | Paint, flooring, cabinets |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Tinley Park FAQ
Do I need a permit to finish my basement?
Yes. Basement finishes involve framing, electrical, plumbing, and often HVAC — all requiring permits. Egress requirements must be met.
What about replacing windows?
Window replacements typically require a permit to verify egress and energy code compliance. Check with Community Development for simple like-for-like swaps.
Can I hire an unlicensed handyman?
Electrical and plumbing work requires state-licensed contractors. General carpentry allows broader contractors, but all must be registered with the Village.
Compare other topics
See how Des Plaines and Tinley Park 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