What is required to obtain a general contractor license? A completed City of Chicago general contractor license application. A statement of financial solvency (in the format that is part of the application) Proof that the applicant is authorized to do business in Illinois (not required for sole proprietors)
Permits issued by the Department of Buildings help to ensure construction work complies with the minimum standards of safety established by the Chicago Construction Codes in order to protect public health, safety, and welfare. A permit is required before beginning most construction, demolition, and repair work.
A licensed and insured general contractor is required for most types of building construction, rehabilitation, and demolition work in Chicago. Only one general contractor is allowed on the same project at the same time, regardless of how many permits are issued for the project.
Based on the Chicago noise ordinance, construction sites cannot begin set up before 7 AM and cannot begin loud noise before 8 AM. It is important to know that public works (Chicago Water Management, Chicago Department of Transportation, etc.) are exempt from the Chicago noise ordinance.
How do I contact Chicago about building permits? To talk to someone or get assistance with your Chicago building permit, contact the Department of Buildings at dob-info@cityofchicago or by calling 312-744-3449.
Building permit application forms are available via the City of Chicago Web site (cityofchicago) as well as at Room 900, City Hall, 121 N. LaSalle Street between a.m. and p.m., Monday through Friday. Permits for certain projects may be obtained from the Neighborhood Residential Permit Centers.
A building permit is not required for the following types of work: Painting, wallpapering, tiling, carpeting, installing cabinets or countertops, or performing similar finish work, without plumbing or electrical connections.
Ing to Chapter 15-8, Section 510 of Chicago Building Code, “all roof structures hereafter placed above the roof of any building exceeding 55 feet in height shall be constructed of noncombustible materials and shall be supported by construction of noncombustible materials, except the walking surface of a rooftop ...
A building permit is not required for the following types of work: Removing up to 1,000 square feet of plaster or drywall per building (more than 1,000 square feet of exploratory openings in one building requires a building permit) Removing ceiling tiles or a dropped ceiling that is not part of a fire-rated assembly.