Demolition Permit in Chicago, Illinois
- Permit Required
- Yes
- Authority
- City of Chicago
- Last Verified
- 2026-09-29
What the official source says
“A demolition (wrecking) permit is required before beginning work to demolish an entire building or structure, to demolish substantially all of the above-grade portion of a building or structure, or to alter an existing building and permanently reduce its building area.”
chicago.gov
“A building permit is not required for the following types of work: Removing up to 1,000 square feet of plaster or drywall per building (more than 1,000 square feet of exploratory openings in one building requires a building permit)”
chicago.gov
“Removing up to 1,000 square feet of plaster or drywall per building (more than 1,000 square feet of exploratory openings in one building requires a building permit)”
chicago.gov
Verify before you build — primary source for this page: https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/bldgs/provdrs/permits.html
Permit Requirements
Exemptions
Removing up to 1,000 square feet of plaster or drywall per building (more than 1,000 square feet of exploratory openings in one building requires a building permit)
Size / Height Limits
Maximum size without a permit: 1000 sq ft.
How to apply
- Confirm the rules for your address with City of Chicago — the official sources on this page are the place to start.
- Prepare a simple site plan or drawing showing where the demolition work goes and its size.
- Submit the application and pay the permit fee.
- Schedule the required inspections and keep the approved permit on site.
More detail: our demolition permit guide.
Building Department
City of Chicago
Official Sources
FAQ
Do I need a demolition permit in Chicago, Illinois?
Yes. A permit is required for demolition work in Chicago. The official source says: “A demolition (wrecking) permit is required before beginning work to demolish an entire building or structure, to demolish substantially all of the above-grade portion of a building or structure, or to alter an existing building and permanently reduce its building area.”
Is there a size or height limit before a demolition permit is needed in Chicago?
The verified threshold is 1000 sq ft in area. Exempt: Removing up to 1,000 square feet of plaster or drywall per building (more than 1,000 square feet of exploratory openings in one building requires a building permit)
Where do I apply for a demolition permit in Chicago?
Applications go to City of Chicago.