Building Permits

Building permits are required for the construction, alteration, repair, or demolition of any structure. If you have a question about whether your project requires a building permit, please contact the Building Division.

Review Timeframes

The City can offer same day service on certain permits (e.g. roofs, sewer repairs, water heaters, windows, siding) and issue “over the counter” provided that the items do not require plan review or Historic Preservation Review, and all noted items in the required application and handout are provided.

Other residential permits may take up to one to two weeks to process. Commercial and industrial permits may take three to four weeks to process.

Permits for exterior work in a Historic District or Landmark site require a Certificate of Appropriateness review.

Submittal Requirements

Permit applications should be submitted in person to the Building Division located on the first floor of the St. Charles Municipal Center at 2 E. Main St., St. Charles, IL 60174. Applications and prints may also be submitted via US mail.

Major residential projects (including new single-family homes, basement finishes, additions, remodels and three-season rooms) require 5 sets of drawings.

Commercial projects (including new buildings, additions, remodels, or demolition) require 10 sets of drawings.

Construction Timeframes

Construction must begin within three months and must be completed within one year after receiving building permit. If the construction process is expected to exceed one year’s time, a schedule of completion shall be provided at the time of application for permit.

Permit Applications