Do I Need a Permit for Kitchen Remodeling in Illinois?

5 min readFebruary 19, 2026

Quick Answer: Yes, most kitchen remodeling projects in Illinois require at least one permit. Any work involving structural changes, electrical wiring, plumbing, or gas lines requires a permit from your local building department. Cosmetic updates like painting, replacing countertops, or installing new hardware typically do not require permits.

Understanding Kitchen Remodel Permits in Illinois

Permit requirements for kitchen remodeling in Illinois are governed at the municipal level, meaning rules vary by city and village. In Chicago and most surrounding suburbs, the local building department issues permits and conducts inspections to ensure work meets code. Skipping required permits can result in fines, forced removal of completed work, and complications when selling your home.

Projects That Require a Permit

The following kitchen remodeling activities typically require one or more permits in Illinois municipalities:

Structural changes: Removing or modifying load-bearing walls, adding windows or doors, or altering the roofline above the kitchen all require a building permit and structural engineering review.
Electrical work: Adding circuits, relocating outlets, installing new lighting fixtures that require new wiring, or upgrading your electrical panel requires an electrical permit. Illinois requires that electrical work be performed by a licensed electrician.
Plumbing changes: Moving a sink, adding a dishwasher line, relocating gas lines, or installing a pot filler requires a plumbing permit. Gas line work must be performed by a licensed plumber.
HVAC modifications: Rerouting ductwork or adding ventilation for a new range hood that vents to the exterior typically requires a mechanical permit.
Cabinet layout changes: While replacing cabinets in the same location may not require a permit, altering the kitchen layout often triggers permit requirements due to associated electrical and plumbing changes.

Projects That Usually Do Not Require a Permit

Painting walls and cabinets
Replacing countertops without altering plumbing
Installing new cabinet hardware
Replacing a faucet in the existing location
Installing a new backsplash
Replacing appliances without modifying electrical or gas connections

The Permit Process in Chicago

In Chicago, permit applications are submitted to the Department of Buildings. Processing times typically range from 5 to 15 business days depending on project complexity. Your contractor should handle the permit application, but as the homeowner, you are ultimately responsible for ensuring permits are obtained.

Why Permits Matter

Permits protect you. Inspections verify that work is done safely and to code, reducing the risk of electrical fires, water damage, and structural failures. When you sell your home, unpermitted work can derail a sale or reduce your home's value. A reputable contractor like R-Deco will always obtain the necessary permits and schedule inspections as part of the project.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do kitchen remodel permits cost in Illinois?

Permit costs vary by municipality and project scope. In Chicago and surrounding suburbs, building permits for kitchen remodels typically range from $200 to $1,500. The fee is usually calculated as a percentage of the total project cost or based on the type and number of inspections required. Electrical and plumbing permits are often separate and cost $75 to $300 each. Your contractor should include permit costs in their project estimate.

What happens if I remodel my kitchen without a permit in Illinois?

Remodeling without required permits in Illinois can lead to several consequences. The municipality can issue stop-work orders and fines, which range from $100 to $500 per day in some jurisdictions. You may be required to open finished walls for inspection, resulting in additional costs to repair and refinish. When selling your home, unpermitted work must typically be disclosed, and buyers or their lenders may require permits to be obtained retroactively — a process that is more expensive and disruptive than getting permits upfront.

Does my contractor pull the permits or do I?

In most Illinois municipalities, either the homeowner or a licensed contractor can pull permits. However, it is standard practice and strongly recommended that your general contractor handle the permit process. They understand what permits are needed, how to prepare the application, and how to schedule inspections at the right stages of construction. If a contractor tells you to pull permits yourself or suggests skipping them, consider it a red flag. At R-Deco, we manage the entire permit and inspection process on behalf of our clients.

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