Emergency Repair or Stabilization Work

Where a type of repair or stabilization work requires a building permit but must be performed on an emergency basis—to prevent imminent harm to people or property—the work may be performed before obtaining the required building permit.

A permit application covering the scope of the emergency work must be submitted to the Department of Buildings on the next business day. The applicant must also work diligently with the City to obtain the necessary building permit as soon as possible. The emergency work may not be concealed without approval of a city building inspector.

If scaffolding that requires a building permit must be erected on an emergency basis, a building permit application for the scaffolding must be submitted to the Department of Buildings within 3 business days.

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—Emergency Work

Any emergency work performed before obtaining a building permit, as allowed by Section 14A-4-401 of the Municipal Code, must still comply with all applicable requirements of the Chicago Construction Codes. Section 14A-4-401 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 before starting emergency work.