Easy Permit Process Overview

The Easy Permit Process allows home and building owners to obtain a permit to REPAIR or REPLACE THE SAME OR EXISTING elements of a building, without making any changes to the structure of the building. The types of projects that would benefit from the Easy Permit Process within one’s home or building are:

Inside the Building

Repair or replace existing non-structural elements
Drywall – patch, plaster
Floors – doors, cabinets
Light fixtures
Furnaces (except if part of a major conversion)– replacement only
Scaffolding - An Easy Permit can be received same day if the work has been approved by the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT)
Outside the Building

Outside the Building

Fences – 5 ft. or above
Sheds
Garages
Trash Enclosure – wood only
Same Day Permits

Depending on the complexity of your project, an Easy Permit can be issued the same day if the following criteria is met:

All paperwork and documentation is correct and has been approved
There are no prior code violations on the property

The following are examples where one can receive a Easy Permit within a day:

Porches (if repairs are being done from a violation report)
Lintel repairs
Masonry work
Non-structural repairs
Replacing existing plumbing
Replacing electrical work- (such as a new 200 AMP services or less)
Tuckpointing-if the project is for a single-family residence and the owners are working with a mason contractor

Note: Fire damaged buildings with 24 % or less damage can get a Easy Permit within a day, if their electrician has received the proper permits.

Projects Where More Time is Needed in the Application Process

Plans: Some projects that require plans can still qualify for the Easy Permit Process, but a permit cannot be issued the same day. An example would be an application to build a deck, since plans are required.

Exceptions:

Landmark buildings: Landmark buildings are eligible for the Easy Permit Process Program, but must meet all the landmark requirements.

Condos: Condominiums are required to receive a permit for the following projects, in which single-family homes are exempt, such as the instillation of kitchen counters, cabinets and sinks.

Before Submitting the Easy Permit Process Application:

When applying for the Easy Permit Process Program PLEASE note the following:

THE APPLICATION MUST BE SIGNED BY THE OWNER

If the Owner Does Not Sign the Application the Application Is Automatically Rejected

It is recommended that prior to submitting the permit, please use the Easy Permit Process corrections sheet (available on the Buildings website found at www.cityofchicago.org/buildings) to ensure that the application is submitted properly. Easy Permit Process is available on a walk-in basis at the DOB Office located in City Hall, 121 N. LaSalle Street, 9th Floor, Room 900.