Work Not Requiring a Permit

The following work does not require a building permit to complete:

Minor repairs and decorating such as painting, wallpapering, patch plastering, replacing moldings, laying carpeting, floor or wall tiling, other floor treatments (linoleum, wood), repairing and resurfacing wood floors.

• Replacement of windows or doors (same size, location and type)
• Replacement of shingle roofing.  Roof’s slope must be at least 5-in-12.
• Replacement of siding on residential buildings.  Building must be 3 stories or less with 4 units or less.
• Fences less than 5 feet tall.

Landmark Status  If your building is a Chicago Landmark or rests within a Landmark District, you will need to get permission from the Commission on Chicago Landmarks to make any changes to the roofs, windows, doors or exteriors walls which are visible from a public street.