Express Permit Program
The Department of Buildings launched the Express Permit Program on November 6, 2023, replacing the following paper-based application processes:
- Easy Permit Process
- Solar Express Permit Process
- Short Form Permit Process for plumbing and mechanical work
On September 16, 2024, the Express Permit Program expanded to cover 5 additional worktypes.
The Express Permit Program includes a fully web-enabled customer platform allowing users to apply for building permits for most types of building repairs and administrative changes to issued permits, as well as a limited range of small improvement projects. The web interface also allows customers to check application status, pay fees, and view inspection results online.
Guided Worktypes
In the Express Permit Program, applicants are able to choose from a selection of guided worktypes. The system is designed to ensure applicants provide all information that is needed for the City to efficiently review an application and issue a permit. These worktypes include:
Repairs, Maintenance, and Small Projects
- Communication Equipment
- Electrical Maintenance (Monthly)
- Electrical Work
- Exterior Window or Door Replacement
- Fence or Trash Enclosure
- Interior Alteration (Nonstructural)
- Masonry Work
- Mechanical (HVAC) Work
- Other (Emergency) Work
- Plumbing Maintenance (Monthly)
- Plumbing Work
- Porch, Deck, Balcony, or Fire Escape Repair
- Preparatory Interior Demolition (Nonstructural)
- Removal of Unpermitted Residential Unit Features (Deconversion)
- Reroofing
- Small-Scale Solar Photovoltaic (PV) System
- Small Temporary Structure
Administrative
- Add or Change Contractor (Administrative)
- Change Owner (Administrative)
- Deferred Submittal (coming soon)
- Post-Construction Filing (Administrative)
- Post-Issuance Approval (Administrative)
Related to Other Permit
Specialty
Licensed Contractor E-Acceptance
When a Express Permit Program application is submitted by an owner or expediter indicating that work will be performed by a contractor licensed by the Department of Buildings, the licensed contractor is notified by email and must click a link in the email to accept the job before a permit will be issued. This helps to prevent license fraud.
Licensed contractors who need to update their official email should log in to to their account on the Dynamic Portal or contact Continental Testing Services, the City of Chicago’s trade license support partner.
Redesigned Permit Certificate
Express Permits feature a redesigned permit certificate that is easier to read from a distance (to facilitate online verification) and provide more information about the scope of permitted work, including a list of all DOB-licensed contractors.
Inspections
For Express Permits, all inspections results are immediately visible to the owner and listed contractors through the online portal.
The Express Permit portal also provides guidance to customers about when permit inspections are required and how to request them.
Protecting Public Health and Safety
Building permits protect public health and safety and help to prevent work by unlicensed and unqualified contractors.
At the Department of Buildings, we know that the quicker and more user-friendly we make the permitting and inspection process, the more people will obtain permits.
User Training and Additional Information
The Express Permit Program for Electrical Work, September 19, 2024 (Watch Recording)
Introduction to the Express Permit Program September 24, 2024 (Watch Recording)
The Express Permit Program for Architects September 26, 2024 (Watch Recording)
The Express Permit Program for Porch and Deck Repair September 26, 2024 (Watch Recording)
To make sure you are notified of additional opportunities, please subscribe to the Department of Buildings E-mail Alerts.