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1. What work requires a building permit?

Most people know that new buildings, additions to existing structures, renovations, demolitions, and temporary buildings usually require building permits and inspections. Less obvious projects that may require a permit include installing a swimming pool, deck and/or fence. Also, some tasks that involve electrical, plumbing, heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems and fireplaces require a building permit.

2. Where can I find my plat of survey?

The plat of survey can be found with the mortgage papers that you received from your lender when you closed on your property. If you do not have your plat of survey with these papers, please call your lender to have them send you a copy. If there has ever been a permit on your property, you can try to find it on microfilm located in the Building Department. This process requires filling out a Freedom of Information Act Form and searching through the film on your property. If you cannot find it in either of these locations, you can hire a land surveyor to create a new plat of survey.

3. Does the Village need to inspect my project?

When the work begins, the Village will inspect each major phase of construction. It is the responsibility of the person doing the work to schedule inspections at least 24 hours in advance. If the inspector finds that some of the work does not meet minimum code requirements, he will provide a written explanation of the corrections that must be made to bring the work up to acceptable standards.

When the work has been completed and the inspector approves the final project, you will receive either a Certificate of Occupancy or a Certificate of Compliance. This will formally mark completion of the project with the understanding that it has been inspected. Inspection Checklists

4. What documents must I display at the job site?

The building permit card must be in a visible location at the construction site. A copy of the approved plans must be on the job site at all times. Any proposed changes to the approved plan must be brought to the attention of the Building Official. Some changes will require review and approval.

5. How can I contact the building division?

The Village of Palatine Building Division exists to help make residential and business improvement projects safe and long-lasting. If you need more information about building permits, inspections, and fees, please call 847-359-9042 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday or contact us through the website.

6. When should I call the Building Division?

The time to call the Building Division is before you start a project. Tell them what you plan to do and they will explain the requirements and assist you until the project has been safely and successfully completed. The Building Division staff is available to meet and discuss your project specifications. If you hire a professional contractor to do the work, select one who is familiar with local building codes. Then apply for a permit whether a professional or a do-it-yourselfer does the job.

7. When do I schedule a Pre-Submittal Meeting?

The time to schedule a Pre-Submittal meeting is when you are ready to submit for a permit. The Permit Control Coordinator will review the required drawings/specifications and permit application to determine if they meet the requirements needed for permit submittal.
If the drawings/specifications and application meet the requirements, the application will be accepted for review. If the drawings/specifications and application are not complete, a list of required items for the permit submittal will be provided to you. A new appointment may be required based on the missing items. Please refer to the Residential Submittal Requirements or the Commercial/Multi-Family Submittal Requirements for detailed information about what is required to submit for a building permit.

Permit Control Coordinator - Contact

8. When are appointments available for Pre-Submittal Meetings?

Wait times for appointments vary due to seasonal issues and customer demand; however, we will make every effort to schedule appointments within one week of the request.

9. What is a Certificate of Occupancy (C.O.)/Completion?

When the work is completed and has been inspected, you will receive either a Certificate of Occupancy or a Certificate of Compliance. This certificate formally marks completion of the project with the knowledge that it has been approved.

10. What is a building permit?

A building permit is a license that grants legal permission to begin construction of a building project. Permits and inspections are necessary to verify that all Village of Palatine codes are met. If they aren't, the public's health, safety and welfare is at risk.

11. What is a building permit application?

After contacting the Building Division, you will have to complete an application for a building permit. It will require basic information about the project, such as who will perform the work, what work will be done, and how it will be done. The application process also will require you to submit drawings, plans or other documents for review. If the construction plans do not meet the Village's Building Code and Zoning Ordinance, or other related ordinance requirements, a code official will explain what needs to be corrected. To receive a permit you will have to pay a fee. The permit fee helps defray the cost of the Village of Palatine staffs time spent on the application, and the review and inspection process.

12. Who restores the area around the construction site?

All areas disturbed by the construction must be restored to their original condition by either the contractor or owner. This includes, but is not limited to streets, sidewalks, parkways, trees, bushes, and fences.