Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
Here you will find answers to many of your questions regarding the Building Department. If you do not see the answer to your question, please give our offices a call at 708.481.8950 ext 155.
Why are permits required ?
Building, Electrical and Plumbing permits are required for most construction projects. The purpose of the permit is to assure that the work performed meets Village zoning and building code requirements. This is achieved through plan review and inspection.
When is a permit required ?
A building permit is required prior to starting any construction, alteration, addition, removal, demolition or restoration of any building or structure or its service equipment. The following is a list of typical projects that require a permit. This list is not all-inclusive so please check with the Building Department to see if your project requires a permit.
New Construction Additions
Garages Sheds
Fences Decks
All Concrete Work Swimming Pools
Driveways Windows/Doors
Siding/Fascia/Soffit/Gutter Roof Tear-off or Overlay
Sewer Repairs/Clean-Outs Patio
Electrical Service/Revision Plumbing Revision
Furnace/Air Conditioning Water Heater
Demolitions Lawn Irrigation System
Masonry Mailboxes
When is a permit NOT required ?
Cosmetic improvements, such as painting, wallpapering, carpeting and trim work do not require permits. A homeowner may perform most ordinary repairs on their home without a permit . Any contractors hired to perform these types of work must be registered with the Village prior to work starting.
Who is responsible for getting the permit ?
It is the responsibility of the homeowner to obtain the building permit prior to the start of any work. A contractor, acting as the owner's agent, may also obtain the building permit.
What if I do not obtain a permit ?
Per Village ordinance, the Building Permit Fee will be doubled if work starts prior to obtaining the Building Permit.
What do I need to bring to the Building Department to obtain a permit ?
A copy of your plat of survey showing existing and proposed structures
Property Identification Number (PIN)
Pertinent drawing and blueprints
Registered Contractor's name
Contractor Proposal or Scope of Work with valuation
Subdivision/HOA approval (if applicable)
How long does the permit process take ? Most projects can be reviewed and permit issued within 2-3 days. The Village uses a third party plan review company for larger projects (new homes, additions). A 10-14 day review period may be required for these projects.
What does a contractor need to register with the Village ?
A contractor must fill out the Contractor's Registration application and provide a Certificate of Insurance and a License and Permit Bond. Plumbing, Lawn Sprinkler and Roofing contractors must provide copies of their current State of Illinois License. Electrical contractors must provide a copy of their current Electrician License. The annual fee for a subcontractors is $100. The annual fee for a general contractor is $200
When do I need an inspection ?
As a general rule, an inspection is required before any work is covered. Please refer to the specific Richton Park Guide for your particular project to see at what point of construction inspections are required. A final/completion inspection is always required.
When are inspections performed ?
Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Inspection request must be received 24 hours prior to the requested time.
When does a permit expire ?
Work must commence within 180 days (6 months) of the issuance of the permit. The building permit will become invalid one-year from the date of issuance.
Can the Village recommend a contractor ?
The Village will not recommend a contractor, but will provide a list of registered contractors by trade.
Why are permits required ?
Building, Electrical and Plumbing permits are required for most construction projects. The purpose of the permit is to assure that the work performed meets Village zoning and building code requirements. This is achieved through plan review and inspection.
When is a permit required ?
A building permit is required prior to starting any construction, alteration, addition, removal, demolition or restoration of any building or structure or its service equipment. The following is a list of typical projects that require a permit. This list is not all-inclusive so please check with the Building Department to see if your project requires a permit.
New Construction Additions
Garages Sheds
Fences Decks
All Concrete Work Swimming Pools
Driveways Windows/Doors
Siding/Fascia/Soffit/Gutter Roof Tear-off or Overlay
Sewer Repairs/Clean-Outs Patio
Electrical Service/Revision Plumbing Revision
Furnace/Air Conditioning Water Heater
Demolitions Lawn Irrigation System
Masonry Mailboxes
When is a permit NOT required ?
Cosmetic improvements, such as painting, wallpapering, carpeting and trim work do not require permits. A homeowner may perform most ordinary repairs on their home without a permit . Any contractors hired to perform these types of work must be registered with the Village prior to work starting.
Who is responsible for getting the permit ?
It is the responsibility of the homeowner to obtain the building permit prior to the start of any work. A contractor, acting as the owner's agent, may also obtain the building permit.
What if I do not obtain a permit ?
Per Village ordinance, the Building Permit Fee will be doubled if work starts prior to obtaining the Building Permit.
What do I need to bring to the Building Department to obtain a permit ?
A copy of your plat of survey showing existing and proposed structures
Property Identification Number (PIN)
Pertinent drawing and blueprints
Registered Contractor's name
Contractor Proposal or Scope of Work with valuation
Subdivision/HOA approval (if applicable)
How long does the permit process take ? Most projects can be reviewed and permit issued within 2-3 days. The Village uses a third party plan review company for larger projects (new homes, additions). A 10-14 day review period may be required for these projects.
What does a contractor need to register with the Village ?
A contractor must fill out the Contractor's Registration application and provide a Certificate of Insurance and a License and Permit Bond. Plumbing, Lawn Sprinkler and Roofing contractors must provide copies of their current State of Illinois License. Electrical contractors must provide a copy of their current Electrician License. The annual fee for a subcontractors is $100. The annual fee for a general contractor is $200
When do I need an inspection ?
As a general rule, an inspection is required before any work is covered. Please refer to the specific Richton Park Guide for your particular project to see at what point of construction inspections are required. A final/completion inspection is always required.
When are inspections performed ?
Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Inspection request must be received 24 hours prior to the requested time.
When does a permit expire ?
Work must commence within 180 days (6 months) of the issuance of the permit. The building permit will become invalid one-year from the date of issuance.
Can the Village recommend a contractor ?
The Village will not recommend a contractor, but will provide a list of registered contractors by trade.