Exploratory Demolition

When you are planning a building rehabilitation project, limited exploratory demolition may be needed for the project team to expose and evaluate existing building elements. 

A building permit is not required for the following types of work:

• Removing up to 1,000 square feet of plaster or drywall per building (more than 1,000 square feet of exploratory openings in one building requires a building permit)
• Removing ceiling tiles or a dropped ceiling that is not part of a fire-rated assembly
• Removing paint, wallpaper, tile, cabinetry, a countertop, or a similar finish material
• Removing carpet or finished floor (without removal of the subfloor)
• Removing non-structural subflooring (with immediate replacement)

Exploratory demolition cannot create unattended hazardous conditions in a building, whether the building is occupied or not. Hazardous conditions could include openings in a floor or reduction of structural fire resistance—anything that would not be obvious to building occupants or emergency responders.

Historic Buildings

These exceptions may not apply to work on a property that is a proposed or designated Chicago Landmark or part of a proposed or designated Chicago Landmark district. For more information, contact the Historic Preservation Division in the Department of Planning and Development.

Lead-Safe Work Practices

Work must comply with lead-safe work practices required by city, state, and federal laws. You may be required to file a Lead-based Paint Renovation, Repair, and Painting Form with the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) before beginning work involving lead-based paint.

Asbestos-Safe Work Practices

Work must comply with asbestos abatement and handling practices required by city, state, and federal laws. You may be required to file an Asbestos Project Notification with the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) before beginning work involving asbestos.

Code Compliance Required

Any work performed without a building permit, as allowed by Section 14A-4-402 of the Municipal Code, must still comply with all applicable requirements of the Chicago Construction Codes. Section 14A-4-402 does not waive any applicable requirements of the Chicago Construction Codes or of the Municipal Code other than the requirement to obtain a building permit.

If you have a question about whether proposed work is code compliant or requires a building permit, please visit the Department of Buildings assistance counter on the 9th floor at City Hall.