When is a Permit Required?

The following is provided for informational purposes only and as a general guide to assist homeowners in determining whether a permit is required. For full permitting requirements, refer to the Building Code, Chapter 150 of the La Grange Code of Ordinances.

Permit Required: Plan Review Required

Note: Per Village Ordinance, all work done without a permit will be assessed a double permit fee.
  • Add a bay window
  • Add or remodel a bathroom, kitchen, basement attic,  or any existing room
  • Add, repair, or replace private service walks, patios, or driveways
  • Add, alter, enlarge or repair a deck
  • Add, alter, or enlarge a garage or breezeway
  • Room additions or any addition to a structure
  • Any structural change to a building
  • Construct a new or replacement accessory building (e.g. shed, garage, gazebo)
  • Enclose, replace or add a porch, deck or stairway
  • Finish a room in an attic or basement
  • Install a burglar, fire alarm, or fire suppression system
  • Install a swimming pool (both in-ground and above-ground)
  • Install a lawn sprinkler systems
  • Replace windows and/or doors (if the original size is changed)
  • Install or replace central air conditioning or furnace or alter duct system
  • Add interior or exterior fireplace
  • Add or replace a stairway, handrail or guardrail
  • Add a standby generator or solar panel system
  • Demolition of structure (Cook County permit also required)
  • Alter grade in excess of 12 inches in height or less than 12 inches over an area in excess of 250 square feet
  • Install interior or exterior drain tile or foundation waterproofing
  • Any alterations to an interior electrical system, except service
  • Any alterations to an interior plumbing system
  • Enlarge an apron, add an apron or carriage walk in parkway

Permit Required: Next Day Permit

Note: Per Village Ordinance, all work done without permit will be assessed a double permit fee.
  • Add or replace a fence or section of a fence
  • Add or replace gutters or downspouts
  • Add or replace siding
  • Masonry or tuck-pointing
  • Repair or replace a roof
  • Sewer repair or replacement
  • Water service repair or replacement
  • Repair or upgrade electrical service

No Permit Required

  • Add or improve landscaping (not including hardscape or grading)
  • Install awnings or shades (residential only)
  • Install storm doors
  • Insulate or weather strip
  • Painting
  • Replace existing flooring
  • Replace existing water heater or boiler with same type or size
  • Replace windows or doors (same size)
  • Sealcoat a driveway
  • Replace plumbing fixtures with existing shutoffs: faucets, toilets, shower heads
  • Replace electrical fixtures without any changes to wiring: lights, ceiling fans, switches, outlets
  • Replace existing appliances in same location

For More Information

For more information, or if you have any questions regarding permitting requirements, please contact the Community Development Department at (708) 579-2320.