| Building & Property Standards |
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Building Permits Many citizens view construction permits as a legal requirement that simply delays the completion of home or property improvement projects. However, the purpose of permits is to protect the health, safety, and welfare of citizens in the built environment. Why should I get a permit? A permit is legal authority to begin a project and triggers the inspection process. Inspections are performed at various stages of a project to ensure compliance with construction codes. The Village of Oak Park has adopted several internationally accepted model codes that set minimum standards for the performance of construction trade work. Although compliance with the codes does not eliminate all potential risks, it does reduce risks to a level considered acceptable by a consortium of code officials, fire officials, construction trade organizations, product manufacturers and insurance carriers. Permits and inspections are the best avenue available to assure that a project meets accepted minimum standards for safety and durability. When do I need a permit? Permits are required for most property improvement projects. Any work that is governed by the building, electrical, mechanical, plumbing code, or zoning ordinance requires a permit so that inspections can be made for compliance with the relevant regulations. Examples of work that requires a permit:
Examples of improvements and repairs that do not
require a permit:
How do I get permits? Permit applications are available at the Building Inspections divisions permit and zoning counter at Village Hall. Many applications can be completed at Village Hall and submitted for review at the same time. Please call ahead to determine you have all of the information necessary to complete the application before proceeding to Village Hall. Many small projects such as re-roofing, installing a new fence, installing a new driveway, or a simple kitchen or bathroom remodel, can receive approval to proceed at the time of application. The majority of permits issued by the Village fall into this category. Projects such as additions, most alterations, and some repairs require detailed architectural plans to be submitted with the application for a permit. These projects will require time for review before work can begin.. The time for review can vary from two or three days to two to four weeks depending upon the complexity of the project and the number of plans awaiting review. Therefore, it is always best to submit plans for approval well in advance of an anticipated project. Permits expire if work has not commenced within six months of issue. What if I don't get a permit? Failure to obtain a required permit before commencing work on a project can result in assessment of a double permit fee and/or the issuance of a citation for violation of the Village Code. But the real losers when a permit is not obtained and inspections not conducted are the current property owner, future property owners and the Village as a whole. Construction projects that are not completed in accordance with codes present unacceptable potential safety and financial risks for the current and future occupants of these structures as well as for neighboring property owners. For more information about the building permits, call 358.5430.
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Contact Number: E-mail: Form: Fact Sheets • Permit Submittal Requirements • Common residential violations Other Information |
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