Building/Permits

Please note that as of April 13, 2026, certain inspection and application fees have changed. Changes have been made to rental, sale, and occupancy inspection fees, planning and zoning commission application fees, and zoning verification letter fees.

As of October 1, 2024 the City of North Chicago has adopted the following building codes:
  • 2021 International Building Code
  • 2021 International Residential Code
  • 2021 International Mechanical Code
  • 2021 International Fuel Gas Code
  • 2021 International Fire Code
  • 2021 International Property Maintenance Code
  • 2021 International Existing Building Code
  • 2020 National Electric Code
  • Illinois Energy Conservation Code
  • Illinois Department of Health Plumbing Code
  • Illinois Accessibility Code
  • NFPA 101: Life Safety Code (2015) for existing buildings only
  • NFPA; NFPA 13D; NFPA 13R (2015)

Register Vacant or Foreclosed Properties

Register vacant properties online with Hera Property Registry, LLC.  Foreclosure and Vacant Property must be registered in order to comply with the Ordinance. Owners, Mortgagees and Trustees muay register via HERA Property Registry.  A registration fee is required. 

Customer Support:
Email: vpro@heraregistry.com
Phone: (321) 234-5303

Important Numbers

Inspection and Permit | 847.596.8650
Fax | 847.596.8679

We are currently experiencing increased inspection volume. To help us meet your project needs, please schedule required inspections well in advance. It is important to ensure your project is fully ready for inspection and that approved plans are available on site. Incomplete work or permits not on display may result in the need for reinspection and/or additional delays.

Landlord Licensing

City ordinance requires all owners of residential rental properties to obtain an annual (January 1 to December 31) landlord license. Inspections must be passed every two years to obtain the required certificate of compliance. Landlord licenses are subject to the regulations and requirements of North Chicago City Code Title 5, Chapter 14. Applicants should consult the city code prior to operating a residential rental property to best understand their responsibilities. More information about the program can be found on the landlord license application form linked below. 

Please note that City Code Title 3, Chapter 2, Section 14 requires the installation of a "Knox Box" key box for Fire Department access at all residential rental properties with four or more units. Contact NCFD at 847-596-8780 for more information.

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Document Center

The Document Center provides easy access to public documents. Click on one of the categories below to see related documents or use the search function.

Categories always sorted by seq (sub-categories sorted within each category)
Documents sorted by SEQ in Ascending Order within category

Permit Applications and Forms10 documents

  • Authorization to Enter Premises
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  • Building Permit Application
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  • Buyer's Acknowledgement Form
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  • Contractor Registration Information Packet
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  • Notice of Complaint Form
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  • Plumber Registration Application
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  • Self-Permit Statement
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  • Rental/Sale Inspection Application
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  • Landlord License Application
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  • Business License Application Packet
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