In Chicago, sheds 70 square feet or larger require building permits. Smaller sheds under 70 sq ft are exempt. All sheds must comply with zoning setback and lot coverage requirements. The 10-day aldermanic notification period applies to shed permits but may be waived.
The Chicago Building Code requires building permits for sheds of 70 square feet or larger. This threshold is notably lower than many other cities. Sheds under 70 sq ft are exempt from permits but must still comply with zoning requirements. Key requirements: Sheds must comply with zoning setbacks (typically 2.5 feet from side and rear property lines in residential zones). Maximum lot coverage limits apply. Sheds in rear yards only — front yard sheds are not permitted in residential zones. The 10-day aldermanic notification period applies but may be waived for sheds. Pre-fabricated sheds must still meet code requirements. Electrical work in any shed requires a separate electrical permit. Permit fees are calculated using the City's fee calculator. The Department of Buildings reviews applications through the online permitting portal.
Building a shed over 70 sq ft without a permit is a building code violation with fines from $500 to $1,000 per day. Sheds violating zoning setbacks may be ordered removed. Unpermitted electrical work carries additional penalties.
Chicago, IL
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Cook County.
See how other cities in Cook County handle shed & outbuilding permits.
See how Chicago's shed & outbuilding permits rules stack up against other locations.
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