Thinking about a new kitchen, spa-like bath, or a smart addition to your Western Springs home? Permits can feel like a maze, especially when your project touches plumbing, electrical, or the home’s footprint. You want a smooth build, clear rules, and no surprises at resale. This guide explains when you need a permit, what to submit, who to contact, and how to keep your project on track in Western Springs. Let’s dive in.
Do you need a permit?
In Western Springs, most construction or alterations require a Village building permit before work begins. That includes projects that change plumbing, electrical, mechanical systems, structural elements, or the building footprint. Review the Village’s guidance on the licenses and permits page and the Code of Ordinances for building regulations.
Kitchens: work that needs permits
- Moving or adding plumbing such as a sink, dishwasher, or island with a prep sink.
- Adding or modifying gas piping for a range or cooktop.
- Installing new electrical circuits or large appliances that increase load.
- Removing or altering load-bearing walls or changing structural supports.
- Cosmetic-only updates like cabinet refacing or similar cabinet/counter swaps may not need a full building permit, but confirm with the Village first.
Bathrooms: work that needs permits
- Adding, relocating, or replacing tubs, showers, toilets, or sinks.
- Changing drain, waste, or vent layouts.
- Installing new electrical circuits or a ventilation fan that exhausts outside.
- Creating a new bathroom from another space.
Additions: permits and zoning
Any addition or footprint change typically needs a building permit plus plan review. Because additions affect setbacks, lot coverage, and floor-area limits, zoning review is common. Check your property’s district rules in the Development Control Ordinance before drawing plans.
Common permit types
- Building/structural permit for additions, structural changes, and new openings. See the Village’s building regulations.
- Plumbing permit for new or relocated fixtures, water heaters, and system changes. Illinois plumbing is regulated by the state—confirm credentials via the Illinois Department of Public Health plumbing program.
- Electrical permit for new circuits, service upgrades, and wiring changes. The Village enforces its adopted codes—see the Building Codes page.
- Mechanical permit for HVAC modifications, range hoods, bathroom exhausts, and gas piping changes.
- Zoning/site review for projects that affect setbacks, coverage, or grading.
- Other approvals can apply, such as right-of-way work, pools, or sewer projects. See the Village’s Overhead Sewer Cost-Share Program for a common example that still requires permitting.
What to prepare
Before you submit, assemble a complete package so plan review goes smoothly. The Village’s Community Development page outlines submittal instructions and email delivery.
- Administrative items: completed permit application and contractor registration. The Village accepts electronic submittals at [email protected].
- Construction drawings: existing and proposed floor plans, elevations for exterior changes, structural drawings if altering supports or building additions, and site information if needed.
- Electrical plans: new circuits, panel schedule, locations for major appliances, and AFCI/GFCI protection.
- Plumbing diagrams: risers and fixture locations for new or relocated plumbing.
- Mechanical plans: ventilation for range hoods and bathroom exhausts, plus HVAC changes.
- Energy compliance: Western Springs references state energy rules, including the 2021 IECC for state compliance beginning January 1, 2024. Confirm the Village’s currently adopted editions and amendments on the Building Codes page.
- Trade licensing: plumbing must follow Illinois state licensing. Verify credentials with the IDPH plumbing program.
How to apply and schedule inspections
- Submit permits: Email your application and plans to [email protected]. Engineering or site plans go to [email protected]. You can also contact Community Development at (708) 246-1800 ext. 180. Guidance is on the Community Development page.
- Inspections: Western Springs schedules inspections Monday through Friday. Request inspections by emailing [email protected] at least 48 to 72 hours in advance. Review current inspection windows and instructions on the Inspections page.
Fees, timing and penalties
Permit fees and plan review timelines depend on project scope. A simple interior remodel may move faster than an addition that requires zoning and engineering review. Because the Village has been updating adopted code editions, always confirm current fees and timing with Community Development. Starting work without a required permit can lead to stop-work orders, fines, and retroactive inspections, per the Code of Ordinances.
Quick pre-construction checklist
- Confirm your zoning district and any special overlays in the Development Control Ordinance.
- Email [email protected] or call (708) 246-1800 ext. 180 to discuss your scope, fees, and whether contractor registration is needed.
- Prepare a complete submittal: application, contractor registration, plans, structural calcs, electrical/plumbing/mechanical drawings, energy forms, and plumber state license info.
- Submit electronically to [email protected]. Send engineering plans to [email protected]. Confirm review timelines before scheduling work.
- Schedule inspections via [email protected] 48 to 72 hours ahead. Keep permit paperwork on site and save final approvals for your records.
Historic or design considerations
Western Springs has notable historic resources, including the Western Springs Water Tower. If your exterior project could affect a protected resource or a local review area, contact Community Development early to confirm whether additional approvals are needed.
Plan remodels around your move
If you are upgrading to enjoy your home longer or preparing for a future sale, keep permits and final approvals organized for disclosures. Thoughtful timing can help you maximize value and minimize downtime between projects and your next move.
Ready to align your remodel with a sale or purchase in Western Springs? Reach out to The Zampini Team for local guidance and a clear plan for your next step.
FAQs
Do Western Springs kitchen updates need a permit?
- If your kitchen project moves plumbing, adds gas piping, installs new electrical circuits, removes a load-bearing wall, or changes ventilation, a permit is typically required. Cosmetic-only work may not, but confirm with the Village.
What permits do Western Springs bathroom remodels require?
- Bathroom projects that add, relocate, or replace fixtures, change ventilation, or add circuits usually need plumbing, electrical, and sometimes mechanical permits, plus a building permit if walls or structure change.
How do I submit a permit application in Western Springs?
- Email your application and plans to [email protected], send engineering plans to [email protected], and contact Community Development at (708) 246-1800 ext. 180 with questions. See the Village’s Community Development page for details.
Who handles plumbing licensing for my project?
- Illinois regulates plumbing at the state level. Verify your contractor’s credentials through the Illinois Department of Public Health plumbing program.
How do inspections work for Western Springs permits?
- Email [email protected] at least 48 to 72 hours in advance to request inspections and review the Inspections page for current scheduling windows and any special sewer or water inspection steps.
What happens if I start work without a permit in Western Springs?
- The Village can issue stop-work orders, fines, and require retroactive permits and inspections, as outlined in the Code of Ordinances.
