McHenry County, IL
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At the end of January, 2025, the Department of Planning & Development will implement a new permit system. All applications will be submitted, reviewed, and processed digitally. Paper applications, drawings, and other supplemental documentation cannot be accepted with the new system. Applicants will apply, manage permits, and schedule inspections through an online permit portal integrated with the new permit system.
Projects Not Requiring Building Permits
- Re-siding an existing structure
- Residential accessory structures less than 150 square feet, provided they are properly anchored
- Re-shingling an existing roof
- Replacement windows that are exactly the same size as existing windows
- Non-privacy fences (fences that you can see through 50% or more)
- Wooden play sets or swing sets
Although the aforementioned types of projects do not require a Building Permit, a Zoning authorization and/or a Stormwater Management Ordinance Permit may be required based on the location and scope of the project.
All projects not requiring building permits must comply with the Unified Development Ordinance and the Stormwater Management Ordinance permitting requirements.
Please call the department at (815) 334-4560 if you have any questions or need clarification on if a permit is required.
A Building Permit, including a Zoning review, is required for the project types listed below. A Stormwater Management Ordinance Permit may also be required, depending on the location and scope of the development. Thoroughly review the submittal requirements for the permit type in which you intend to make application.
The department strives to complete permit reviews within 10 business days of the application date. In order to ensure an effective and efficient compliance review the applications must be complete. If an application is incomplete or intent is not clearly defined, then the application will be rejected.
Residential Building Permits
Construction documents prepared for residential building permits are NOT required to be prepared by an architect or a design professional.
Exceptions:
- Roofed structures supported by a structural system other than a continuous footing and attached to a primary structure shall be prepared by a design professional licensed in the State of Illinois; e.g. pier-supported covered porch.
- Roof and floor truss designs shall be prepared by a design professional licensed in the State of Illinois.
- Buildings and structures constructed in whole or in part in flood hazard areas, or substantial improvement and restoration of substantial damage of buildings and structures in flood hazard areas, shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the provisions of the McHenry County Stormwater Management Ordinance, and the construction documents shall be prepared by a design professional licensed in the State of Illinois.
Unusual and non-standard construction or where special conditions exist, the Building Enforcement Officer is authorized to require additional construction documents to be prepared by a design professional licensed in the State of Illinois.
If you are unsure if your scope of work is regulated by the adopted ordinances contact the Department at (815) 334-4560.
Commercial Building Permits
Construction documents prepared for commercial building permits are required to be prepared by an architect or an appropriate design professional licensed in the State of Illinois.