Repair (nonstructural)

“Repair” means the reconstruction, replacement, or renewal of any part of an existing building for the purpose of its maintenance or to correct damage.

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

• Repair work that does not involve any of the following:
  • Cutting away or removing part of an exterior wall, interior wall or partition, subfloor, or roof
  • Removing or cutting a structural beam, column, or load-bearing support
  • Removing or changing a required means of egress or rearranging part of a structure that affects egress
  • Working on a mechanical, electrical, plumbing, or fuel gas device or system

For conveyance device (elevator) repair, see Conveyance Device Repair. For electrical repair, see Electrical Work. For masonry repair, see Masonry Work. For mechanical repair, see Mechanical (HVAC) Work. For plumbing repair, see Plumbing Work. For porch repair, see Porches, Decks, and Balconies. For roof repair, see Roofing Work. 

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.

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.

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.

Dust Control

Masonry repair, cleaning, or grinding and other construction or repair activities that generate dust must comply with dust control practices required by city, state, and federal laws. This type of work may also require an air quality permit from the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH).

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.