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FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Please use the drop-down menus below to find answers to your questions, which are separated by their specific categories. If you have a question that is not answered below, or is specific to your particular property, please feel free to contact us.
Building Permits
Permit applications may be submitted through our online portal. Please visit the following link: Citizen Portal.
A permit is required for most construction projects that are not considered cosmetic (walls, tile, painting, flooring, etc.). For a complete list of small projects that do not require a permit, please see our Building Permits webpage.
Yes. Permitting helps ensure that construction work is performed according to applicable building codes, meets safety standards, and does not create hazards for occupants, neighbors, or the public.
Permit fees vary depending on the project scope. They can be calculated using the City’s Fee Schedule.
- Express permits: 3-5 business days
- Regular permits: 4-6 weeks
- Please refer to the Building Permits webpage in order to determine if your permit request is considered "express" or will require a review.
No. The City does not have sufficient staff to expedite plan reviews. To ensure that every project, regardless of size or scope, is reviewed equitably, applications are processed in the order they are received.
Yes. In situations where emergency work is necessary, the work may begin immediately without first obtaining a permit. However, to remain in compliance with City code, a permit application must be submitted within 24 hours of the work beginning. Failure to apply for a permit within this timeframe may result in fines and enforcement action.
Stop Work Orders (SWO) may be posted at project sites when work is being performed without a valid permit. If that is the case, please submit a building permit application through the City's website. Your application will be reviewed in the order it was received. In the meantime, all work must cease until a permit is issued. If you believe a SWO has been posted erroneously, please contact Permit Services at (847) 448-8207 or email us at: permitdesk@cityofevanston.org.
For technical assistance with the Citizen Portal, please send us an email at citizenportalhelp@cityofevanston.org.
Yes. Our in-person permit desk is open Tuesday - Friday from 8:30am-12:00pm. We are located at Morton City Hall, 909 Davis St, on the first floor next to the collector's office cashiers.
Building Inspections
To schedule an inspection, please call (847) 448-8207, and select Option 5. Please do not attempt to call the inspector directly to schedule inspections. One of our Permit Services representatives will assist you with scheduling your inspection.
The City does not perform pre-inspections. Inspections are performed on permitted work to ensure compliance with approved plans and code requirements.
Property Standards
The City follows the 2021 International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC), which is published by the ICC and can be accessed on their website at this link. The City also has made local amendments to the code, which can be found in Title 5, Chapter 1, of the City's code of ordinances.
For technical assistance with the Citizen Portal, please send us an email at citizenportalhelp@cityofevanston.org.
