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Community Development

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1. What projects require a building permit?

Interior improvements, such as remodeling, including adding, replacing or relocating plumbing fixtures, electrical, HVAC and walls require a building permit. Most exterior site improvements require a building permit. 

Prior to beginning any construction or renovation work, contact the Permitting Division at 630-834-8505 to determine whether a building permit is required.

2. Why are permits necessary?

The purpose of requiring permits include to ensure that all construction meets the minimum construction standards and to ensure that all construction meets reasonable level of safety, public health and general welfare to occupants and the public.  

3. What is required to submit a permit?

Permit information required varies according to the complexity of the project. For the typical new construction project, you are required to submit, a building permit application, contractor information (electrician, plumber, H.V.A.C., etc. as applicable), an electronic submittal (PDF), and hard copies of the following: Plat of Survey, Site Plan, Detailed Architectural Building Plans (floor plans, elevation plans, roof plans etc.), and Engineering/Civil Plans. 

Items submitted must be complete to avoid delays in the review process.

4. How long does it take to process and issue a building permit?

It will depend on the scope of work, the degree to which revisions are necessary, and the response time of the applicant. Simple over-the-counter permits, such as fences and roofing, are typically issued the same day, while more complex permit applications require review by several departments, and consequently take 5-10 working days for initial review.

5. Do I need a permit to replace a fence on my property?

Yes, a permit is required to install a fence. A plat of survey, location of fence and fence height and materials, are required. Fences can be placed up to the property line, but we recommend you place the posts 3 - 6 inches into your property and that you call J.U.L.I.E. toll free, 1-800-892-0123, before installing the posts.

6. Who or what is J.U.L.I.E.?

JULIE stands for "Joint Utility Locating Information for Excavators". Call JULIE toll free at 1-800-892-0213 so they can visit your property and mark the location of non-Village underground utilities. 

7. How close to the lot line can a shed be installed and how tall can a shed be?

A shed structure must be a minimum of 5 feet from the foundation to the side or the rear lot lines and a maximum 10 foot height to the peak of the roof is permitted (see Residential Garages and Accessory Structures handout). 

8. Can a homeowner do their own electrical work?

A homeowner can do small electrical repairs, i.e. change outlets, switches, etc., without needing a licensed electrician. However, service upgrades, modifications to existing electrical service, or new electrical work must be done by a licensed electrician with current bond and insurance. 

9. What codes regulate construction in Villa Park?

2015 International Building Code, 2015 International Mechanical Code, 2015 International Fuel Gas Code, 2015 International Residential Code, 2015 International Property Maintenance Code, 2014 Illinois Plumbing Code, 2018 Illinois Accessibility, 2018 International Energy Conservation Code, 2014 National Electric Code, 2015 International Existing Building Code, 2015 International Fire Code, 2015 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code.

10. To what degree is the general contractor or owner responsible for the conditions of the job site and streets during construction?

The job site must be maintained in a safe condition that will not cause harmful conditions for the neighbors or the general condition of the streets. Keep in mind that a construction site is a potentially dangerous site, and it is the responsibility of the property owner and/or general contractor to continually monitor the conditions, and resolve any conflicts. 

11. If I am hiring a contractor, will the contractor ensure that the proper permits are obtained?

The property owner is responsible for ensuring that a permit is obtained for a project before the work begins. 

12. What do I do with the building permit placard I was given?

The permit placard should be displayed in a window so it is visible from the street. 

13. How long is a building permit valid for?

Building permits are valid for one year from the date they were issued, provided work has been commenced, and the permit has not been suspended. Permits become invalid if the work has not started and/or has been abandoned. 

14. What if my permit expires?

A homeowner must submit a new permit application and payment of the full permit fee shall be submitted. 

15. What if I need to modify the approved permit plans after I have received permit approval?

Revised plans shall be submitted for staff review and approval. Contact the Permitting Division, 630-834-8505, prior to making any changes to the approved permit plans. Revisions must be approved prior to inspections. 

16. What is a Plat of Survey and how can I get a Plat of Survey?

A Plat of Survey is a drawing that represents a property that has been surveyed in the field and certified by an Illinois licensed land surveyor and contains the following: A) A firm name, address and registration number. B) Professional land surveyor seal, signature, date of signing, and license expiration date. To obtain a Plat of Survey, consider the following options:

• Check where you keep your important papers. You should have received a Plat of Survey at the closing when you purchased your property. 
• You can check with your realtor, they may have it. 
• If you provided a recent Plat of Survey as part of a building permit application, you can fill out a Freedom of Information request, and we will do a search of our files. 
• Contact a surveyor and order a new Plat of Survey. 

17. I would like to be my own general contractor; must I, as a homeowner, be a licensed contractor with the Village?

Homeowners acting as a general contractor for the home they reside in are required to fill out the form, Homeowner acting as a general contractor, and provide a copy of their homeowner’s insurance policy. 

18. What is a stop-work order?

A stop work order is an order to stop all work, and is issued for improvements for which a permit has not been issued or for work which is proceeding in conflict with the approved plans or inspection procedures. 

19. If I do any work to my home, will my property taxes be increased?

Should you have any questions regarding the assessment  process and/or available exemptions, please contact the York Township Assessor’s Office located at 1502 South Meyers Road, Lombard. Phone: 630-627-3554. If your property is located north of Route 64 (North Ave), please contact Addison Township Assessor’s Office located at 401 North Addison, Addison. Phone: 630-530-8161.

20. What are the guidelines for running a business from my home?

The guidelines for home occupations can be found in the municipal code under Appendix C Article 6 of the Code of Ordinances.

21. How do I find the zoning of my property?

Contact the Community Development Department at 630-433-4300, and provide staff with either an address or a parcel identification number (PIN). Staff can then provide a proper zoning classification for the property. You can also view the zoning map to determine the zoning classification of the property. You may also look up your specific address in the new interactive map.