Do You Need a Permit to Do a Roof in Illinois? Yes and No!

Yes, you need a permit to do a roof in Illinois when the work changes the structure or size of the roof. You'll need a permit for most roofing work, including installation, repair, and maintenance. There are exceptions for homeowners who want to repair or work on a limited area of their roof (below 100 sq ft.).

Contractors who want to work on roofs will need a proper permit and license. The roofer also requires in-depth knowledge of the local building code and a written agreement that is authorized by the state of Illinois. We'll discuss the details to help you understand how you can get a building permit in Illinois.

What Roofing Work Requires a Permit in Illinois?

According to Illinois Law, you'll need a permit to install, re-roof, or maintain a roof that exceeds 100 square feet. The 100 square feet exception is for property owners who want to work on their roof. Anything that changes the structure of your roof or adds to it will require a roofing permit. 

Let's get into the nitty gritty requirements of a roofing permit:

These are some general examples, but regulations in Illinois vary by municipality. According to the ordinance, you might not have to get a license for specific types of work. For example, you won't need a license to patch less than 25% of your roof in Chicago.

Roofing Permit Requirements Across Illinois

The roofing permit requirements vary across the different states of Illinois. We'll look at some of the major municipalities and their requirements:

1. Roofing Permit in Chicago

According to Chicago Permit Law, you will need a building permit for all major changes to the size or structure of the roof. The only scenarios where you won't need a roofing permit are:

1. Performing roof repair on an area below 25% of the roof. The repair must not include cutting or removing a part of the exterior wall or roof.
2. Roof installation, repair, and maintenance for a shed or gazebo on your lot. This applies to every small permanent structure according to Chicago law. 
3. Performing roof repair, recovery, and replacement on a building that is up to 4 stories above grade and has a roof with a pitch of at least 2:12. 

2. Roofing Permit in Rockford

According to Rockford Building Permit Rules, you will need a state license and permit to do any kind of roofing work. Rockford's roofing law applies to roof replacement, repair, maintenance, and any other type of change. Furthermore, building permits are required for any changes, alterations, or constructions of structures larger than 120 sq ft. 

Naturally, you can work on the roof of a shed or gazebo, even without a permit. Other than these small structures, you will need to go through a permit application. 

3. Roofing Permit in Peoria

According to Peoria Roofing Law, you'll need a roofing permit when making major changes to the size of the roof. This includes any re-roofing projects that require replacing the wooden roof sheathing. You won't need a permit for roofing work that doesn't change the size or the roofing sheathing lumber.

Who Needs to Get the Permit for Roofing Work?

The property owner and contractor both can get a roofing permit. However, the primary responsibility usually lies with the homeowner. They have to communicate the scope of their project, the type of permit they need, and pay the permit fee to the local municipality's building department. 

You will also have to stay in touch with your roofing contractor to file the required paperwork. Some projects require proof of general liability and workers' compensation insurance from your contractor. 

How Do You Get a Roofing Permit in Illinois?

Here's a step-by-step guide to get an Illinois roofing permit:

1. Contact your local municipality building department to determine whether you'll need a permit.
2. Find your property identification number (PIN).
3. Collect your contractors' information.
4. Collaborate with your contractor to understand the scope of work.
5. Get a signed copy of the contract between you and the contractor.
6. Ask the contractor to give you information on their proof of insurance.
7. Go to the local municipality and fill out the permit application.
8. Attach all of the relevant documentation and pay the fee.
9. Apply and get the permit.

Before or after the permit application, the department might ask for an inspection of the project and structure. Provide all of the details required and be as upfront as possible. With that done, you or the contracting party can start working on the roof. 

FAQs - Permit for Roofing in Illinois

What are the rules for roofing in Illinois?

According to the IL roofing contractor rules, you must apply for a permit and have a valid license to do a roof in Illinois. Depending on the scope of the project, the homeowner might also have to arrange an inspection. 

Do roofers need a license in Illinois?

Every roofer needs a license in Illinois to undertake any roofing project. You will need a Limited License to work on residential projects. You'll need an Unlimited License to work on commercial and industrial projects. 

How much is a roofing license in Illinois?

According to the IDFPR, a roofing license in Illinois costs between $350 and $400. The costs are divided into a $125 application fee and a $248 exam fee. Additional costs include a renewal fee of $62.50 per year or more. 

Do you need planning permission for a roof?

No, you do not need planning permission for a roof in Illinois. However, any changes or additions must adhere to the building code standards of the area. Furthermore, a building permit is required for changes to a roof in Illinois. 

Bottom Line on Do You Need Roofing Permits

According to Illinois Law, you will need a permit and a Limited or Unlimited License for major roofing work. This includes any work that changes the shape, size, or structure of the roof. While the exact requirements change according to the municipality, most require a valid roofing permit.

The permit is issued by the local municipality on the application of the homeowner or contractor. The process requires due preparation, a variable permit fee, and a valid license from the qualifying party. As a contractor, you have to understand the details of these processes to operate a legal roofing business.

At Illinois Roofing Institute, we prepare you for all of these legal frameworks. You get detailed information and live examples of how to approach each situation as a contractor. Join your limited spot in our roofing class today to stay ahead of the curve.