What work requires a building permit?
A permit is required for any alteration or repair of a current building or new build. Examples of work that would require a building permit are; new window installation, building a deck, water heater replacement, and driveway replacement. While most projects require a permit, the following projects are exempt and do not require a permit:

• Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, countertops;
• Non-fixed and movable fixtures, cases, racks, counters and partitions not over five feet nine inches (5'9") in height which do not contain electrical devices;
• Prefabricated swimming pools which are capable of holding less than twenty four inches (24") of water, do not exceed five thousand (5,000) gallons, and are installed entirely above ground;
• One story detached accessory structures used as playhouses provided the floor area does not exceed one hundred twenty (120) square feet; and
• Swings and other playground equipment.

Projects involving site work require a code compliant current plat of survey to be submitted with the permit application.  Projects such as replacement of an existing driveway, sidewalk or patio will require a plat of survey that is accurate (depicting all current improvements on the property) can be submitted with a signed and notarized affidavit.  Projects that add 50 square feet or more of lot coverage require a current survey (within one year of permit application).  The plat of survey must be full size (and to scale) signed and stamped by a land surveyor licensed in Illinois. 

Standard Permit Processing Review Times

• Same Day Permit –1 Business Day  
  • Same Day Permits include:  residential window or skylight replacement, water heater replacement, roofing, siding or furnace and AC replacement. For more information, please review the Same Day Permit Checklist. 

• Residential Permit (First Review)  - Up to 10 Business Days
  • More detailed residential permits including driveway/sidewalk replacement, fence or deck installation, etc. For more information on these permits, please contact the Community Development Office at (630) 766-5133.

• Residential Permit (Revisions) – 2-10 Business Days
  • Revision review and comments

• Commercial Permit (First Review) 15-20 Business Days
  • All commercial permits

• Commercial Permit (Revisions) -2-10 Business Days
  • Revision review and comments

Review times are based on business days; weekends or holidays are not counted toward review times. Permits received after 3:30 p.m. will begin the review process the next business day.

Please note, there may be instances when we experience a high volume of permits and review times may be delayed. The City of Wood Dale continues to strive to meet the above timeframes, but are not guaranteed. 

You may stay up to day on your permit status by logging into your my.wooddale.com account. On your account  you can review comments, pay invoices, schedule inspections and more!