Deck permits in Chicago, IL

A new deck in Chicago needs a plan-based building permit. The quick Express Permit Program cannot be used to add a deck where none exists.

"this type of permit cannot be used to add a new deck where one does not already exist. Adding a new structure to an existing building requires applying for a plan-based building permit."

Source: chicago.gov

The no-permit exceptions Chicago lists for porches and decks cover painting, in-kind replacement of non-structural parts, and in-kind replacement of a small low porch or deck; they are repair rules, not rules for building a new deck.

"Repairing or replacing (in-kind) an entire exterior porch, deck, or stair system that is no more than 6 feet above the ground and has a landing area of 50 square feet or less"

Source: chicago.gov

Chicago requires an architect to prepare the drawings for plan-based (Standard Plan Review) permits.

"The Standard Review Process requires an architect to prepare the drawings and documents for the review of many code disciplines."

Source: chicago.gov

For structural porch and deck work, Chicago says plans must be prepared by an Illinois-licensed architect or structural engineer.

"For this type of building permit, you must submit plans prepared by an Illinois-licensed architect or structural engineer as part of the building permit application."

Source: chicago.gov

Every Chicago building permit project also needs zoning approval before the application starts.

"Prior to starting a building permit application, it is important to remember that all projects require zoning approval"

Source: chicago.gov

The Department of Buildings porch and deck guidelines list the drawing information a permit set should show, including property lines, distances to property lines, framing plan, and footing locations and sizes.

"Property Lines • Dimensions from Porch / Deck to Property Lines • Framing Plan • Porch / Deck Dimensions"

Source: chicago.gov

Plan-based permits in Chicago are submitted online through the city E-Plan system.

"All Standard Plan Review applications are submitted through E-Plan, the City's online building permit system."

Source: chicago.gov

Chicago porch and deck guidelines say footings must be at least 42 inches below grade.

"The bottom of the footing must be a minimum of 42 inches below grade."

Source: chicago.gov

The Chicago Building Code chapter quoted in the guidelines requires footings at least three feet six inches below the adjoining ground.

"All footings shall be carried to a depth of at least three feet six inches below the adjoining ground surface"

Source: chicago.gov

Chicago guidelines call for deck guards at least 42 inches high.

"Guards used at the edges of porches or decks must be a minimum of 42 inches in height."

Source: chicago.gov

The same guidelines say a deck needs railings when its surface is two feet or more above grade.

"Railings, also known as guards or guardrails, are required around the perimeter of a deck when its surface is two feet or more above grade."

Source: chicago.gov

Chicago building inspectors check every part of a porch or deck, including footings, ledger boards, connections, stairs and guard rails.

"Inspectors inspect all elements of the porch, including joists, beams, columns, stairs, hand/guard rails, ledger boards, connections, and footings."

Source: chicago.gov