Work on Existing Buildings and Structures

Code compliance

Work involving an existing building or existing structure must comply with the editions of the Chicago Building Rehabilitation Code and Chicago Zoning Ordinance in effect at the time when the permit application was submitted to the Department of Buildings.

Minimum Requirements for Existing Buildings

The scope of work must remedy all readily apparent violations of the Chicago Minimum Requirements for Existing Buildings at the property, whether those violations have been cited by a city inspector or not. When the work necessary to remedy existing conditions is not eligible to use the Express Permit Program, the Department may require submission of a plan-based permit application.

Lead-safe work practices

Work must comply with lead-safe work practices required by city, state, and federal laws. You may be required to file a separate Lead-based Paint Renovation, Repair, and Painting Form with the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) before beginning work involving lead-based paint.

Asbestos-safe work practices

Work must comply with asbestos abatement and handling practices required by city, state, and federal laws. You may be required to file a separate Asbestos Project Notification with the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) before beginning work involving asbestos.

Use of the public way

Use of a public street, alley, sidewalk, or parkway (the “public way”) for construction or demolition activities, the installation of scaffolding, or to store construction or demolition materials or equipment requires a separate permit from the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT).

Structure in the public way

Installation or maintenance of a temporary or permanent structure of any size below, on, or above a public street, alley, sidewalk, or parkway (the “public way”) generally requires a separate public way use permit from the Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP).

Before you dig

At least 2 business days and no more than 14 calendar days before starting non-emergency work that involves digging more than 6 inches below the existing surface, you must use 811 Chicago to request a dig ticket. This helps to protect underground utilities, both below private property and the public way.

Fire alarm work

A separate permit from the Department of Buildings is required for any work involving or affecting a fire alarm system or device integrated with a fire alarm system, such as an electronic door locking system.

Fire sprinkler and fire suppression work

A separate permit from the Chicago Fire Department is required for any work involving or affecting an automatic sprinkler system, automatic fire extinguishing system, standpipe system, or fire pump.

Conveyance device work

A separate permit from the Department of Buildings is required for any work involving or affecting an elevator, escalator, or other conveyance device.

Definition of “addition”

Addition means an extension or increase in floor area, number of stories, or building height of an existing building.

Definition of “alteration”

Alteration means any construction or renovation to an existing structure, other than a repair or addition.

Definition of “in-kind replacement”

In-kind replacement means replacement of existing materials, objects, or elements using new materials, objects, or elements of the same type, size, and shape.

Definition of “repair”

Repair means the reconstruction, replacement, or renewal of any part of an existing building for the purpose of its maintenance or to correct damage.

Effective November 6, 2023