Everything you need to know about getting a deck permit in Chicago: fees, requirements, exemptions, and direct links to the City of Chicago Department of Buildings (DOB).
Permit Fees
Minimum building permit fee: $302 (2025). Porch/deck/balcony repair or in-kind replacement via Express Permit Program: $250 flat fee per structure.
New deck construction: $302+ (valuation-based). Deck repair/rebuild (Express Permit): $250 flat fee.
Processing Time
Express Permit Program (repairs/in-kind rebuilds): a few business days. Standard plan review: 6-8 weeks. Self-certified plans (by licensed architect/SE): approximately 10 days.
Apply Online
Yes — via E-Plan
Building Code
2019 Chicago Building Code (Title 14B), based on the 2018 IBC with Chicago-specific amendments (effective August 1, 2020)
No permit required for routine maintenance (painting, power washing). No permit required for non-structural repairs (deck boards, stair treads, railing pickets) if no building code violation exists. No permit required for residential porch repair/replacement if less than 6 feet off ground AND no more than 50 sq ft of landing area.
If your deck does NOT meet all exemption criteria, you must obtain a permit before construction. Building without a required permit can result in fines, stop-work orders, and required demolition.
Review the exemption criteria above. If your deck exceeds any threshold, a permit is required.
You'll need a site plan, deck dimensions, framing details, and footing specifications. Check Chicago's specific documentation requirements.
Apply through E-Plan . Pay the permit fee at submission.
Once approved, post your permit visibly and schedule required inspections (typically footing, framing, and final).
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Sources
Data verified April 2026. Fees, processing times, and requirements are subject to change. Always confirm current information with Chicago's City of Chicago Department of Buildings (DOB).