Is a permit required?
Cicero requires a building permit for decks, whether a homeowner or a contractor does the work.
"Outdoor Structures & Features: Fences, decks, patios, and swimming pools."
Source: thetownofcicero.com
Homeowners must get permits for home improvements even when they do the work themselves.
"Homeowners in Cicero must obtain building permits for a variety of home improvements and modifications, regardless of whether they are doing the work themselves or hiring a contractor."
Source: thetownofcicero.com
What to bring
Cicero says a plat of survey, a signed contract and zoning clearance may be required with the permit application, and drawings or plans may be required too.
"Some important documents that may be required include but are not limited to: Plat of Survey Signed Contract for work to be performed Zoning Clearance"
Source: thetownofcicero.com
How to apply
Apply by completing a permit application at the Cicero Building Department.
"Complete a permit application, available at the Town of Cicero Building Department."
Source: thetownofcicero.com
Contractors must be licensed and bonded in Cicero or no permit is issued.
"All contractors performing work, must be licensed and bonded to work in the Town, if not, they will NOT be issued a permit."
Source: thetownofcicero.com
What it costs
Cicero's residential permit and inspection fee is 2% of the construction cost, subject to minimum fees.
"For residential structures, the fee is 2% of the construction cost, but not less than the minimum fees."
Source: thetownofcicero.com
Homeowners doing their own repair work get a free permit up to a $1,500 yearly allowance.
"Homeowners are entitled to a $1,500 per year allowance for repairs they perform themselves. A building permit will be given free of charge up to this allowance."
Source: thetownofcicero.com
Homeowners must still apply for a permit even under $1,500, and the allowance does not apply to work done by contractors.
"Homeowners must still apply for a building permit, even if the cost does not exceed $1,500. The allowance does not apply to work performed by contractors."
Source: thetownofcicero.com
Inspections
Each construction phase needs an inspection by a Cicero building inspector, and a final inspection is done at completion.
"Each construction phase requires inspection by a Town of Cicero Building Inspector to ensure compliance with the permit, code, and plans."
Source: thetownofcicero.com
Other rules
Cicero's list of work that needs no permit has no exemption for building a new deck; the only related item is minor porch repair.
"Minor Porch Repairs (wooden porches, balconies, stairs, and steps)."
Source: thetownofcicero.com
Before anyone digs
Illinois law requires a call to JULIE, the state's one-call system, before digging deck footings. Call 811 or (800) 892-0123, or file online, at least 3 days before work starts. The call is free, and the locate is good for 25 days. On a hired job, the company doing the digging makes the call. More on Illinois deck rules
We are not the City of Cicero. Rules change, and some neighborhoods and HOAs have their own. Confirm with the city before you build. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.
Deck builders that serve Cicero
- Railings
- Pergolas and covers
- Design and 3D plans
- Design and 3D plans
- Free estimates
- Workmanship warranty
