Planning construction or trade work in Elgin, Illinois? Whether you’re breaking ground on a new development, renovating a home, or handling specialty work like HVAC, plumbing, or electrical, you’ll need the right Elgin building permit to move forward legally and avoid costly delays.
This guide explains how to get permits in Elgin step by step. You'll learn which projects need permits, how much they cost, what forms you need to fill out, and how to apply correctly.
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What requires a building permit in Elgin?
A permit is required for most construction and remodeling work in Elgin.
- Any alterations to a building or structure, such as:
- Additions
- Decks
- Sheds
- Roof replacements
- Window replacements
- Siding
- Fences
- Porches
- Driveways
- Swimming pools
- Mechanical/plumbing/electrical system changes
- Both residential and commercial work generally require a permit, and owner-occupants may do some residential work, but major systems (e.g. electrical service upgrades) must be performed by licensed contractors
Who manages permitting in Elgin?
Permits are administered by the Building & Development Services Division within the Community Development Department.
- Address: 150 Dexter Court, Elgin, IL 60120
- Phone: 311 within city, or 847‑931‑6001
Elgin building permit cost
Elgin’s permit fees are set according to the 2025 Fee Schedule. Below is a summary:
Elgin trade permits
Whether you're handling HVAC, plumbing, electrical, or roofing work, you must apply for the relevant trade permit. Each requires specific documentation and is processed separately, even if the fee structure is the same.
Electrical permits
Up-to-date electrical work such as new circuits, EV chargers, or panel changes. A permit is required and must be obtained before starting work.
Electrical permit costs
**Fee waiver includes installation, electrical upgrades, plan review, and any other associated fees.
Plumbing permits
Required for new or altered water, sewer, or gas systems, even if costs mirror other trades.
Plumbing permit costs
*Requires additional plan review fee
Mechanical (HVAC) permits
Permits needed for HVAC system installation or replacement, including ductwork.
HVAC permit costs
Roofing permits
A permit is required for reroofing projects that go beyond minor repairs, particularly when the deck or underlying structure is affected.
The permit fee to repair a section of roof or tear-off and reroof is $85.
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How to get a building permit in Elgin
Step 1: Choose the correct permit type
Visit the City of Elgin Permits page to select the appropriate application type. Quick-reference guides are available for common projects like decks, fences, HVAC work, and additions.
Common guides include:
- Deck and balcony quick guide
- Fence quick guide
- Misc. electrical quick guide
- Misc. HVAC quick guide
- Misc plumbing quick guide
- New construction and remodeling quick guide
- Roof repair quick guide
Step 2: Prepare your supporting documents
Typical submission packets should include:
- Completed Elgin building permit application
- Use the Quick Permit Application for applicable projects that don’t need plan review
- Construction plans or drawings
- Contractor license/authorization form
- Project valuation
- Additional forms if working in a historic district or performing structural work
Step 3: Submit your permit application
You can submit your completed permit package in one of the following ways:
- Email: permits@elginil.gov
- In-person or mail: City of Elgin – Community Development, 150 Dexter Court, Elgin, IL 60120
Step 4: Review turnaround times
Typical permit review turnaround times:
Step 5: Pay fees & post permit
Once your permit is approved:
- You’ll receive an invoice with applicable fees
- Pay via check, credit card, or in person at City Hall
- Post the issued permit visibly at the construction site before work begins
Step 6: Schedule inspections
To schedule required inspections:
- Call 311 (inside Elgin) or 847‑931‑6001
- Email the inspections team via the contact information in your permit packet
Elgin permitting resources
- Community Development – Building & Development Services Division
- Address: 150 Dexter Court, Elgin, IL 60120
- Phone: 311 (in Elgin) or 847‑931‑6001 (outside Elgin)
- Email: permits@elginil.gov
- Permit application submission: Email permits@elginil.gov or deliver to the above address
- Elgin building permit application
- Quick guides:
- General requirements
- Building permits page
- Common residential permits
- 2025 fee schedule
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