Bruce Zartler, Building Commissioner
Tom Brandstedt, Village Engineer
The time to apply for a building permit is before you start a project. Keep in mind that building permits may take a few days to process and all contractors doing work in the Village need to be registered annually.
Contacting the Building Department:
Submit all building permits to the Village Clerk’s Office for processing.
For questions regarding the permit or contractor registration process, call the Village Hall at (708) 467-3700
For questions regarding a specific permit or the work being done, call Bruce Zartler at (708) 467-3700
When is a building permit required?
Most people know that new buildings, additions to existing structures, renovations, demolitions, and temporary buildings require building permits and inspections.
Less obvious projects that require a permit include installing a swimming pool, deck, fence, shed, driveway, roof, windows, and doors. Also, tasks that involve electrical, plumbing, heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems, and fireplaces all require a building permit. If you are not sure, call us.
What do I need to submit a building permit?
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Building permit applications
- signed contract listing the cost of the of project and scope of the work
- drawings if applicable
- Plat of Survey (For all outside structures including fire pits, sidewalks, fences, driveways, sheds, generators, etc.)
- Spec sheet from the manufacturer with installation and energy guide (For windows, doors and generators)
What do I need to register as a contractor? (Every permit requires a registered contractor)
- Contractor registration form
- $100 fee (excludes plumbing contractors)
- surety bond in the amount of $10,000
- certificate of insurance (Village of Willow Springs at One Village Circle Willow Springs, IL 60480 must be the certificate holder)
- General Liability – $1,000,000
- Workers Compensation – $500,000
- State license (for roofers, plumbers, electricians, etc.)
The general contractor along with all sub-contractors need to register.
After submitting my permit, what is the next step?
Please allow a minimum of 5 business days for permits to be processed. You will be contacted when your permit is approved and ready to be picked up.
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.
How do I schedule inspections?
When you pick up your permit you will be given all necessary inspection cards for the job. Do not loose these cards; they are proof that you have paid for the inspections. When you know when you will be ready for an inspection, complete the card and drop it off or mail it in to the Village Hall. If you drop the inspection card off after normal business hours, you may use the drop box outside. For scheduling purposes, please give 48 hours notice for inspections.
Please ensure that the work being inspected is completed by the scheduled inspection time. There is a re-inspection fee of $50. If you need to reschedule an inspection, please call (708) 467-3700 as soon as possible.
Why do I need 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 local building and fire code standards are met. If they are not, the public’s health, safety and welfare is at risk.
The permit fee helps defray the cost of the Building Department’s time spent on the application, and the review and inspection process. It also gives you access to the Building Department’s knowledge and experience when you have questions about the construction project.
The building permit card must be placed in a visible location at the construction site.
Can I do additional work once I receive the approved permit?
When your building permit is approved, it is approved only for what you submitted it for – nothing more. Any proposed changes to the original plan must be brought to the attention of the building official. Some will require further review and approval.
How long are building permits good for?
Building permits are good for one year from the date it was issued. If you wish to extend your permit, submit a request in writing, signed and dated, stating the reason for the extension.
Important Links:
Selected Village Codes