BUILDING CODES AND PERMITS

Building codes have been adopted by the County to ensure the health, safety and welfare of all County residents. These codes provide a reasonable degree of uniform construction and engineering practices for all structures and properities. Kankakee County periodically adopts updated codes as the become available. Currently the County utilizes the following: 2003 International Residential Code 2003 International Building Code 2003 International Property Maintenance Code 2003 Fuel Gas Code 2003 International Fire Code 2003 International Energy Conservation Code 2003 International Mechanical Code 2005 National Electric Code 2004 Illinois Plumbing Code 1997 Illinois Accessibility Code

Building activity in the unincorporates areas of the County may require a building permit. The following guides are meant to assist with the permitting process. A citizens guide to the permitting process can be obtained here: Building Permit Guide. A Spanish version can be obtained here: La Guia A Obterner Un Permiso de Edificio. Below are examples of projects which require a building permit, it should be noted that this is not a comprehensive list. If you are unsure as to whether your specific project requires a building permit please contact a Staff person.

• Fences
• Swimming pools and man made ponds
• Lawn sprinkler systems
• Decks and porches
• Roofing, siding, soffit, fascia and gutters
• Door and window replacement
• Demolition of existing buildings (tax advantages)
• Alterations involving; structural changes, plumbing piping, electrical equipment or wiring, HVAC systems
• Water and sewer lines
• Sheds, detached garages, carports and greenhouses
• Barns and pole buildings
• Additions to buildings
• Signs advertising conforming home occupations
• Manufactured Homes
• New homes and additions

• Property owner's name, address, and phone number
• Deed (New houses)
• Parcel Index Number (Tax Number) for site where work is to be completed
• Description of work
• Labor and material value of improvement

• Building plans showing that the construction of the building will result in a system that provides a complete load path capable of transferring all loads from their point of origin through the load resisting elements to the foundation and to the soil.
• Sections and elevations as needed
• Foundation plan
• Floor plan layout, doors, windows, and structural systems
• Electrical
• Plumbing
• HVAC and gas piping
• Light and ventilation
• Completed Contractors List
• Completed Erosion & Control Sediment Control Permit, issued by the Kankakee Soil & Water Conservation District
• A site plan showing: set back dimensions from the improvement to the front, side, and rear property lines, all existing structures on the property, and new driveways or access to the property.

Sample Site Plan