Interior Finishes and Furnishings

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

• Painting, wallpapering, tiling, carpeting, installing cabinets or countertops, or performing similar finish work, without plumbing or electrical connections
• Removing and replacing up to 1,000 square feet of drywall or plaster, without alteration of any mechanical, electrical, or plumbing device or system
• Removing and replacing (in-kind) ceiling tiles or a dropped ceiling that is not part of a fire-rated assembly
• Removing and replacing (in-kind) an interior door (with or without the frame) that is not required to have a fire-resistance rating
• Installing, altering, or removing a temporary motion picture, television, or theatrical stage set or scenery (not accessible to the public)
• Installing, altering, or removing a piece of furniture that is no taller than 7 feet
• Installing, altering, or removing a nonfixed and movable fixture, case, rack, shelf, counter, or partition that is no taller than 7 feet

“In-kind replacement” means replacement of existing materials, objects, or elements using new materials, objects, or elements of the same type, size, and shape.

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.