Permits and Inspections
Online Permits are now available!
- BG is rolling out a new software that allows you to apply for a permit and track it.
- We are now accepting all permits through our online portal.
- Users (contractors, homeowners, etc.) must register for a BS&A online account in order to apply for permits and request inspections. Once you are registered, you can apply for and access multiple permits under that one account. Click here to create an account!
Any new construction or improvements require a permit before the work commences.
Permits are required for new construction; additions; interior remodeling including kitchen and bath; driveways and aprons; patio or walkways; decks; sewer repair or cleanout; shed; fence; and replacement of roof, windows, furnace, air conditioner, or water heater. This list is not all-inclusive. Residents are urged to call the Building Department at 847-459-2530 to determine if a permit is required.
Building permits are a way to enforce construction standards, which ensures the safety of residents and businesses.
Permits are required for new construction; additions; interior remodeling including kitchen and bath; driveways and aprons; patio or walkways; decks; sewer repair or cleanout; shed; fence; and replacement of roof, windows, furnace, air conditioner, or water heater. This list is not all-inclusive. Residents are urged to call the Building Department at 847-459-2530 to determine if a permit is required.
Building permits are a way to enforce construction standards, which ensures the safety of residents and businesses.
- Apply for a Permit.
- All contractors must be registered with the Village.
- List of Contractors registered with the Village.
- All building projects must be constructed and installed in accordance with the Village of Buffalo Grove Code.
- The Village currently enforces the following codes as amended:
• 2018 ICC Building Codes
• 2017 National Electric Code
• 2014 State Plumbing Code
As well as the 2018 Illinois Accessibility Code.
Types of Permits
- Same Day Permits - If all information is correct and complete, the permit can be issued on the same day it is applied.
- Express Permits - If all information is correct and complete, express permits can take approximately 5 business days to be reviewed and issued.
- Standard Permits - These are the most complex permits and involve multiple, interdepartmental reviews. Standard permits require approximately 10 business days for review and issuance. Larger, commercial projects may necessitate longer review time.
The Village of Buffalo Grove is now taking inspections through an email system.
Please review the inspection guide - here.
Please note the following:
Please review the inspection guide - here.
Please note the following:
- Allow a minimum of a 48-hour notice for all requested inspections, except for:
- sewer/water repair inspections (same day inspections)
- emergency inspections (same day inspections)
- All inspections are scheduled on a first come, first serve basis
When a permit is issued, the approved plans must be followed. If those plans change, an amendment is required to update the records. Submit an amendment form along with any supporting documents and/or plans showing the changes.
No further inspections will be scheduled until the amendment is approved and picked up.
No further inspections will be scheduled until the amendment is approved and picked up.
List of Contractors registered with the Village. Please note that the list is updated every 30-60 days but does change on a daily basis. Village staff will verify contractor’s current registration status upon permit application.
Permit fees can be found here.
Outdoor construction activity is permitted from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. (9.38.037).
PERMIT EXPIRATIONS
Permits shall expire if the work has not been completed within the following specified times from the date of issuance:
Permit extensions may be granted by the Building Official upon demonstration of justifiable cause for the extension – fee: 50% of original fee permit. Permit extensions are granted for 50% of the original time. (See requirements under www.vbg.org/permitfees, bottom of last page)
SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMITS
Every site development permit shall expire by limitation and become null and void if the work authorized by such permit has not been commenced within one hundred eighty days, or is not completed within one year from date of issue; except, that the Village Engineer may, if the permit holder presents satisfactory evidence that unusual difficulties have prevented work being started or completed within the specified time limits grant a reasonable extension of time, not to exceed sixty days, if written application is made before the expiration date of the permit.
Permits shall expire if the work has not been completed within the following specified times from the date of issuance:
- Sewer/water service repair - 30 days
- Air conditioner, Demolition, Furnace, Radon Mitigation,
- Roof, Utility Disconnect, Water Heater - 90 days
- Additions and New Construction - 365 days
- For Rent, Sale, or Lease signs - 365 days, renewable on an annual basis
- All other permits - 180 days
Permit extensions may be granted by the Building Official upon demonstration of justifiable cause for the extension – fee: 50% of original fee permit. Permit extensions are granted for 50% of the original time. (See requirements under www.vbg.org/permitfees, bottom of last page)
SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMITS
Every site development permit shall expire by limitation and become null and void if the work authorized by such permit has not been commenced within one hundred eighty days, or is not completed within one year from date of issue; except, that the Village Engineer may, if the permit holder presents satisfactory evidence that unusual difficulties have prevented work being started or completed within the specified time limits grant a reasonable extension of time, not to exceed sixty days, if written application is made before the expiration date of the permit.
Frequently Asked Questions
(Not an exhaustive list)
- Fence
- Patio / stoops / walkways
- Driveway/apron
- Deck
- Swimming pool
- Roof replacement
- Lawn irrigation systems / modifications
- Shed
- Gazebo / pergola, etc
- Window replacements
- Air conditioner / furnace
- Gutters
- Siding
- Soffit/Fascia
- Pop up drains / French drains – must remain within 10’ of house
- Tree removal on private property
- Swing sets and other residential play equipment
- Basketball hoops (must be on private property)
- Dumpster (must be on private property)
