PlainPermit

Do I need a permit for an EV charger in Chicago, IL?

Short answer: Yes, a permit is required for an EV charger 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. EV charger wiring is electrical work, which needs a building permit in Chicago and is not on the list of exempt work.

Note: No project-specific official page found; based on the city's general permit rule.

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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Other projects in Chicago

EV charger permits in other cities

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