The Easy Permit Program is a streamlined permitting process for small, simple home and building improvement projects. It allows home and building owners to obtain a permit to repair or replace existing features of a building or make minor modifications without providing architectural plans. You can use the Easy Permit Process for the following project types:

Inside the Building

• Drywall Replacement (greater than 1,000 square feet)
• Exterior Doors*
• Fire Damage (buildings with 24% damage or less, require demolition inspection approval and a separate electrical permit)
• Furnaces (replacement of existing gas-fired only in all-commercial buildings and residential buildings with 4 or more dwelling units)*
• Existing Plumbing Fixture Replacement
• Electrical Work (requires an electrical contractor)**
• Counter Top and Cabinet Replacement (required for condos only)

Outside the Building

• Doors/Window Replacement (4 dwelling units or more, if same size, same location)*
• Fences (non-masonry fences greater than 5 ft. in height or masonry walls of any height)*
• Sheds greater than 150 square feet
• Detached frame garages, up to 600 square feet in area, without rooftop deck*
• Trash enclosure (wood only)
• Porch repair (if a violation report says permit for repairs only)
• Masonry work (mason contractor required)
• Tuckpointing (mason contractor required, masonry cleaning and grinding require a pollution prevention permit from CDPH)
• Roofs (If adding a layer, a general contractor or primary owner can perform the work)*
• Roofs (If total tear-off, must employ Illinois-licensed roofing contractor)
• Lintel repairs (6’-0” opening maximum, mason contractor required)
• Scaffolding (an easy permit can be received the same day if the work over the public way has been approved by the Chicago Department of Transportation)

 * For this project type in an all-residential building, the easy permit may be obtained online without staff review.

** Electrical permits may be obtained online by licensed electrical contractors only.

How It Works

• Available at our City Hall office, Room 900
• Before your visit, download an application form, then submit the application at one of our offices, plus any additional documentation (must have PIN #).
• Some permits can be obtained online – apply for an Easy Permit, pay for it and print it out.
• Before submitting the Easy Permit Process application, please note the application must be signed by the owner. If the owner does not sign the application, the application is automatically rejected.
• Provide a copy of a contract signed by the owner and contractor describing the scope of work. Provide a signed letter of intent for general contractors, plumbing contractors as applicable.
• For more detailed information, please reference the Easy Permit Process Flowchart.