Building Permits & Construction

Building Permit Applications: Work Requiring a Permit

The permits listed here may be required for residential, commercial or institutional building projects in Winnetka.

Additional Commercial, Multi-Family & Institutional Permits

A building permit is required for any new commercial, multi-family or institutional building, or addition, alteration or demolition. A permit is also required for the installation or replacement of any building wiring or equipment, including but not limited to new electrical devices, branch circuits, electrical panels, water heaters, furnaces air conditioning and more.

Single Family Residential Sheds

Shed buildings used for storage of bicycles, lawn equipment or other residential items are permitted on a single-family property, subject to meeting certain zoning requirements limiting their size and location.

Playhouses & Treehouses

A children’s playhouse or tree house are two different types of accessory structures that are allowed on a single-family property subject to meeting certain zoning requirements limiting their size and location.

Work Not Requiring Permits

The following residential construction and maintenance projects do not require a permit or inspection.

Adopted Building Codes

Model codes, local amendments to these codes, as well as other existing Village and other applicable governmental regulations.

Contractor Licensing & Bonding Requirements

The Village of Winnetka does not maintain a contractor licensing program; rather the Village accepts licenses issued by the State of Illinois (i.e., plumbing, irrigation and roofing contractors) or licenses issued by other municipalities which test licensees (electricians).

Inspections & Permit Fees

Learn about inspections and construction fees.

Construction Site Guidelines

These guidelines are required to properly maintain a construction site within the Village.

Water & Electric Rules and Regulations