PlainPermit

Do I need a permit for an electrical panel upgrade in Chicago, IL?

Short answer: Yes, a permit is required for an electrical panel upgrade in Chicago, IL.

Last verified: · Confidence: medium · Status: Verified from official source

Not legal advice. Always confirm with your local building department. Rules change, and your parcel's zoning, HOA, historic district, floodplain or utility work can change the answer. We show the official source and the date we last checked it so you can verify for yourself.
Permit required Confidence: medium

Yes. Electrical work needs a building permit; new electrical service up to 400 amps can be covered under the Express Permit Program.

What changes the answer

Cost

Fee not extracted; see Chicago Department of Buildings fees. Unverified, confirm locally

Fee source: https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/sites/guide-to-building-permits/home/help/faq/DOB/EPP-eligible.html

Where to apply

City of Chicago Department of Buildings (Express Permit Program / online permits)

Permitting authority: City of Chicago Department of Buildings. Applies inside Chicago city limits. Landmark properties and districts may need Commission on Chicago Landmarks review. See also: how to apply for a building permit.

Official sources

“You need a building permit before beginning most types of building construction, demolition, rehabilitation, and repair work in Chicago.”

Source: https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/sites/guide-to-building-permits/home/help/faq/DOB/bldg-permit-not-required/all.html

“Performing electrical work, including new electrical service up to 400 amps”

Source: https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/sites/guide-to-building-permits/home/help/faq/DOB/EPP-eligible.html

Verified: · Status: verified · Confidence: medium

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