ADU Permit Fees & Costs in Chicago, Illinois
Everything you need to apply for a adu permit in Chicago, Illinois — documents, fees, steps, and a downloadable submission packet.
Key Facts
- Permit required
- Yes
- Submission method
- Online
- Typical fee range
- $6,750 – $22,275
- Review time
- Varies by jurisdiction
- Inspections
- 6 inspections required
Limited Data Available
Some information on this page has not been fully verified. We're working to improve data quality. Always verify with Chicago directly.
Estimated Total Fees
$6,750 – $22,275
Range based on typical residential solar PV system. Actual fees depend on project valuation and system size.
| Fee Component | Range | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| ADU Permit Fee[1][2] Chicago passed coach house ordinance allowing ADUs. Permit fees based on valuation per Chicago Building Code. Fees include plan review and inspections. | $4,500 – $13,500 | ✓ |
| Plan Review Fee[3][4] Plan review fee is typically 50-65% of the permit fee. | $2,250 – $8,775 | ✓ |
| Estimated Total | $6,750 – $22,275 |
Fees shown as ranges. Always verify the exact amount with Chicago before submission. Additional fees may apply for expedited review or resubmittals.
Avoid rejections — generate a submission-ready packet
Get a personalized ADU permit packet for Chicago, Illinois — tailored to your project details.
- Required forms: Building Permit Application, and more
- Pre-filled templates: Permit Cover Sheet
- Fee breakdown: $2,250–$13,500 estimated total
- Step-by-step Chicago Department of Buildings portal submission guide
- Inspection prep checklist (6 items)
- Personalized for your specific project details
Free to preview · Pro to download
Required Documents
Chicago requires the following documents for this permit application.
Building Permit Application
Chicago building permit application submitted through ePermit web system
Architectural Plans
Plans and specifications prepared by Illinois licensed architect. Coach house/ADU plans with all required architectural details
Site Plan
Site plan showing property lines, setbacks, building footprint, parking, open space, and lot coverage
Structural Plans and Calculations
Structural design sealed by Illinois licensed structural engineer
Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing Plans
MEP plans showing water, sewer, electric, gas, HVAC, and separate meter connections
Certified Lot Survey
Current certified lot survey showing property boundaries and dimensions
Permit Process
Follow these steps to submit your permit application through Chicago Department of Buildings.
- 1
Pre-Design Consultation
Consult with DOB about coach house/ADU requirements under Chicago Zoning Ordinance
- 2
ePermit Application Submission
Submit building permit application and all design documents through Chicago ePermitWeb system
You'll need: Building Permit Application, Architectural Plans, Site Plan, Structural Plans and Calculations, Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing Plans, Certified Lot Survey
- 3
Initial Plan Review
DOB and other departments conduct plan review for compliance with Chicago Building Code and zoning ordinance
- 4
Corrections and Revisions
Address examiner comments and resubmit revised plans through ePermitWeb
- 5
Permit Approval and Fee Payment
Final approval and payment of permit and inspection fees
- 6
Construction with Required Inspections
Conduct construction with DOB inspections at foundation, framing, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and final stages
- 7
Final Approval and Occupancy
Final inspection approval and authorization to occupy coach house/ADU
Authority Sources
Data on this page is sourced from official records published by the permitting authority. Always verify requirements directly before submitting.
Verified February 15, 2026
Verified February 15, 2026
Verified February 15, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need a adu permit in Chicago?
- Yes. Chicago requires a adu permit for this type of project. Submitting without a permit may result in fines, required removal, or complications when selling your property.
- How long does adu permit approval take in Chicago?
- Processing times in Chicago vary depending on project complexity and current review volume. The process involves 7 steps. Contact Chicago Development Services for current timelines.
- What documents are required for a adu permit in Chicago?
- Chicago requires 6 documents including Building Permit Application, Architectural Plans, Site Plan, Structural Plans and Calculations, and others. See the full list above for details.
- What happens if I build without a adu permit in Chicago?
- Building without a permit in Chicago can result in stop-work orders, fines, required removal of work, difficulty selling your property, and insurance complications. It is strongly recommended to obtain proper permits before starting work.
- Can PermitMagic help prepare my adu permit submission in Chicago?
- Yes. PermitMagic generates a submission-ready packet tailored to Chicago's requirements, including a document checklist, workflow steps, and authority references. Start a permit plan to get your personalized packet.
- How much does a adu permit cost in Chicago?
- ADU permit fees in Chicago typically range from $6,750 to $22,275, depending on project scope. Fees may include building permit, plan review, and technology surcharges. Verify current fees with Chicago.
Related Permits
Other permits in Chicago
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Answer a few project questions and get a adu permit packet for Chicago, Illinois — with every document, form, and fee organized for submission.
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