ADU Permit Online Portal Guide 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
Chicago Department of Buildings
Verified7-step online submission process — account registration required[1][2]
Open PortalPortal steps may change without notice. Always confirm the current process at Chicago's online portal.
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
Fees and Timeline
Fee Breakdown
| Fee | Range | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| ADU Permit Fee | $4,500 – $13,500 | Verified |
| Plan Review Fee | $2,250 – $8,775 | Verified |
Inspections Required
Foundation inspection and soil/structural verification
Foundation inspection and soil/structural verification
Framing inspection for load paths and structural integrity
Framing inspection for load paths and structural integrity
Electrical rough-in and service panel inspection
Electrical rough-in and service panel inspection
Plumbing rough-in including water/sewer/gas lines
Plumbing rough-in including water/sewer/gas lines
Mechanical and HVAC system inspection
Mechanical and HVAC system inspection
Final inspection and Certificate of Occupancy
Final inspection and Certificate of Occupancy
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
Ready to apply? Build your submission packet.
Answer a few project questions and get a adu permit packet for Chicago, Illinois — with every document, form, and fee organized for submission.
Build My Permit PacketFree to preview · Pro to download