Services ยท Your house & yard
Building permits & inspections
The rule of thumb: if it has a footing, a wire, a pipe, or a property line nearby, ask first. Asking is free. Redoing a deck is not.
Does my project need a permit?
| Project | Permit? | Worth knowing |
|---|---|---|
| Deck or porch | Yes | Footings and railings get checked. Bring a simple drawing. |
| Fence | Yes | Height and property-line rules apply. A plat of survey helps. |
| Shed | Usually | Size and setback rules decide it. Ask before you pour or place. |
| Finished basement | Yes | Egress, electrical, and framing are all reviewed. |
| Roof or siding | Yes | Quick over-the-counter permit for most like-for-like work. |
| Water heater / furnace | Yes | Mechanical permits keep the install insurable. |
| Paint, floors, cabinets | No | Cosmetic work inside is yours to enjoy. |
Codes have edge cases. When a project doesn't fit the table, one call settles it: 847-428-2861.
How to apply
- 1. Gather the basics: a description, a sketch or contractor drawing, and your plat of survey for anything outdoors.
- 2. Submit to Community Development at Village Hall, 87 Galligan Road, Mon–Fri 8:30 am–4:30 pm. The application form is in the Document Center.
- 3. Plan review: staff check zoning and code, then issue the permit with any conditions.
- 4. Build, then inspect: keep the permit card posted until final inspection passes.
Scheduling an inspection
Call 847-428-2861 during business hours with your permit number. Same-week slots are the norm, not the exception.
Footings, framing, rough electrical/plumbing, and final are the usual checkpoints. Your permit lists which apply.
