Permit Application Forms

For PDF application forms, please download a copy to your computer before using. Attempting to fill out PDF forms in your browser may cause errors. 

  • Permits for electrical repairs, electrical alterations to existing buildings, and electrical work not associated with a building permit are issued to City-licensed electrical contractors. Contractors must apply for these permits through the City's online permit portal
  • Permits for fire alarm systems, based on shop drawings, are issued to City-licensed electrical contractors or State-licensed private alarm contractors. Contractors must apply for fire alarm system permits through the City's online permit portal. Drawings are submitted and reviewed electronically.
  • Most plumbing work is permitted as part of a building permit based on plans prepared by an architect or engineer. Minor plumbing repair and replacement work may be permitted without plans, based on a "short form" application through the Easy Permit Process. For more information, click here.
  • Application to Replace Existing Plumbing Fixtures (Plumbing Short Form)
  • Most refrigeration work is permitted as part of a building permit based on plans prepared by an architect or engineer. Minor refrigeration repair and replacement work may be permitted without plans, based on a "short form" application through the Easy Permit Process. For more information, click here. Refrigeration equipment may also require an Air Pollution Control Permit from the Chicago Department of Public Health.
  • Refrigeration Permit Application (no plans) (Refrigeration Short Form)
  • A scaffolding permit from the Department of Buildings is required for scaffolding that is either: located anywhere within the central business district and more than 40 feet above grade or outside the central business district and more than 80 feet above grade. For more information, click here. A permit from the Department of Transportation (CDOT) is required if scaffolding will be installed on or above a public sidewalk, street, or alley (the public way).
  • Scaffolding Permit Application
  • Temporary structures (installed at the same location for 180 days or less) such as tents and stages, that do not cover more than 400 square feet and do not exceed 15 feet in height do not require a building permit. Temporary structures that do not cover more than 600 square feet and do not exceed 15 feet in height may obtain a building permit using the Easy Permit Process. Temporary structures that cover more than 600 square feet or that exceed 15 feet in height must obtain a building permit based on plans prepared by an Illinois-licensed architect or structural engineer. 
  • Building Permit Application (Form 400)
  • Easy Permit Application - for temporary structures that do not cover more than 600 square feet and do not exceed 15 feet in height
  • Most ventilation and heating work is permitted as part of a building permit based on plans prepared by an architect or engineer. Minor ventilation or heating repair and replacement work may be permitted without plans, based on a "short form" application through the Easy Permit Process. For more information, click here. Ventilation and heating equipment may also require an Air Pollution Control Permit from the Chicago Department of Public Health.
  • Ventilation and Heating Equipment Permit Application  (Ventilation Short Form)

 

Related Forms and Regulations from Other Departments

Links in this section are provided for convenience. Please confirm with the relevant department that forms and procedures referenced in this section are current.

   

Supporting Information Facts