The City of Chicago Department of Buildings is dedicated to advancing public safety through code enforcement, community partnerships and creative use of technology to make Chicago a safe place to live, work and play. Visit the Chicago Department of Buildings Homepage for information regarding permit review options; the City of Chicago’s building code; and application requests.

Department of Buildings Homepage

If you’re interested in submitting an application for an interior alteration for your business or home please follow the instructions to the right:

Interior alterations do not require the Alderman’s approval, however, the Department of Building's 10-day permit waiting period can be waived for self-certified projects, with an aldermanic acknowledgment letter.

To apply for an aldermanic acknowledgment letter, please submit your request and permit application from the Department of Buildings (first page of permit application only) to our office via fax to (312) 642-0420. Include complete contact information, including your fax and telephone numbers for return correspondence. Please expect a minimum 3-5 day turnaround for the signed application or approval letter.

Please note - residential interior alterations require an approval letter from the condominium association or board for processing.

For more information about the Department of Buildings, or to download the required applications:

Department of Buildings, (312) 743-3600