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RSSOverview of the Easy Permit Process
The Easy Permit Process (EPP) allows building owners to obtain a building permit for small projects that do not require an architect or drawings. EPPs are intended for the repair or replacement of existing non-structural building elements. Refer to the EPP Flow Chart for detailed instructions. No appointment is required. Easy Permits can typically be obtained the same day at City Hall or one of our (3) Neighborhood Residential Permit Centers. Zoning reviews are typically not required.
Most EPPs can be issued the same day when the application is fully completed with required signatures and licensed contractor information. The EPP Desk at can be contacted at 312.744.8615. Your contemplated scope of work may not require a permit, so review this document to determine if a permit is required.
Owner occupants of single family homes can elect to self-perform masonry or plumbing work on the EPP when a Certificate of Primary Residence and Certificate of Responsibility are simultaneously submitted. Landmark buildings are eligible for the Easy Permit Process but must meet all of the landmark requirements.
Fire damaged buildings with not more than 24% damage are eligible for an EPP if an associated Electrical Permit has been obtained. Building permits to correct existing building violations may be required prior to issuance of an EPP. Some EPPs can be obtained entirely online once an login account has been created.
Examples of common EPP projects include:
- Replace limited drywall
- Replace light fixtures
- Replace single furnace
- Replace single hot water heater
- New non-brick fences (greater than 5 feet high and not more than 6 feet high)
- Roof replacement
- New wood frame garage
- New wood trash enclosure
- Masonry tuck pointing
- Replace limited brick masonry
- Replace limited amount of lintels (existing exterior openings not more than 6 feet wide)
- Scaffolding Wrecking Permit
Supporting Information:
- Easy Permit Process Flow Chart
- Easy Permit Process
- Login Instructions
- Requirements for Contractor Changes
- Corrections for Easy Permits
- Porch Repair and Replacement Guidelines
Related Application Forms:
- Aldermanic Acknowledgment Letter
- Application for Wrecking Permit
- Certification of Primary Residency by Owner
- Certification of Responsibility
- Easy Permit Process Application
- Easy Permit Process Corrections Checklist
- Electrical Permit Application
- Excavation Certification Form
- Application for Plumbing Permit to Replace Existing Fixtures
- Refrigeration Permit Application
- Refrigeration Permit for Projects with Plans
- Scaffolding Permit Application
- Tent, Canopy and Platform Application
- Ventilation & Heating Permit
