New Construction and Temporary Structures

Code compliance

Work must comply with the editions of the Chicago Building Code, other applicable Chicago Construction Codes, and Chicago Zoning Ordinance in effect at the time when the permit application was submitted to the Department of Buildings.

Use of the public way

Use of a public street, alley, sidewalk, or parkway (the “public way”) for construction, the installation of scaffolding, or demolition activities or to store construction or demolition materials or equipment requires a separate permit from the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT).

Structure in the public way

Installation or maintenance of a temporary or permanent structure of any size below, on, or above a public street, alley, sidewalk, or parkway (the “public way”) generally requires a separate public way use permit from the Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP).

Before you dig

At least 2 business days and no more than 14 calendar days before starting non-emergency work that involves digging more than 6 inches below the existing surface, you must use 811 Chicago to request a dig ticket. This helps to protect underground utilities, both below private property and the public way.

Fire alarm work

A separate permit from the Department of Buildings is required for any work involving or affecting a fire alarm system or device integrated with a fire alarm system, such as an electronic door locking system.

Fire sprinkler and fire suppression work

A separate permit from the Chicago Fire Department is required for any work involving or affecting an automatic sprinkler system, automatic fire extinguishing system, standpipe system, or fire pump.

Conveyance device work

A separate permit from the Department of Buildings is required for any work involving or affecting an elevator, escalator, or other conveyance device.

Cranes, hoists, and similar construction equipment

A separate permit from the Department of Buildings is required before installation or use of a crane, personnel hoist, or material hoist.

Construction trailers

A separate permit from the Department of Buildings is required for any construction trailer or similar temporary enclosed structure used during construction.

Definition of “new construction”

New construction means the initial construction of buildings and structures, as well as the alteration of buildings and areas of buildings before initial legal occupancy.

Definition of “temporary”

For structures not directly associated with ongoing construction or demolition activities, temporary means installed at the same location for a consecutive period of not more than 180 days. For structures directly associated with ongoing construction or demolition activities, however, temporary means installed at a site only while substantially continuous construction or demolition activities are ongoing at the site.