Permits
Navigating the Permit Process
Below you have an outline of the permit process.
- Complete the Pre-Permit Checklist(PDF, 109KB) in order to be better prepared for permit submittal.
- Please note that any delinquent or past due balances owed to the City of Aurora will delay permit issuance. Please reach out to Revenue & Collections to submit payment or setup a payment plan at: 630-256-3560.
- Apply for Permit - Submit the permit application along with the permit requirements listed on the application and the permit application fee.
- Please be sure to include an email contact in your application as automated emails will keep you up to date on the status of your permit throughout the permit process.
- If the permit submission is responding to code violations, please note the code case in the application description.
- Applications may be submitted Online at: e-TRAKiT Online Portal
- Permit is Reviewed - Please note that there may be multiple review approvals required by different departments & agencies. Estimated review times are available: Review Timeframes(PDF, 180KB)
- Pay Fees & Licensed Contractors Required - Any outstanding permit fees due would need to be paid and all Contractors are required to meet the City of Aurora Licensing requirements prior to permit issuance.
- Permit Issuance - The permit should be displayed in a window or door, clearly visible from the street. Permit will indicate site address, permit expiration, Conditions of approval, and the required inspections. Permits typically expire after 6 months of inactivity.
- Schedule Inspections - The required inspections will be listed on the permit in a sequenced order. Please be sure to stay active with the permit inspections as to avoid permit expiration. Inspections may be requested via phone, in person, or using the e-TRAKiT Online Portal
- Inspections are conducted Monday- Friday between 9am-3pm. Should you like to confirm a tighter inspection window, you may reach out to the Inspector the morning of the scheduled Inspection between 7:30am-8:30am. Inspector Contact Information is available at: Inspector Contact Sheet(PDF, 180KB)
- Permit Closed/Completed.
FAQs
Why do I need a permit?
Permits are required to in order to maintain safe code compliant residential homes, businesses, & facilities.
Our mission is to provide effective ordinance and code administration and enforcement and protect the health, safety, and welfare of the citizens and businesses of Aurora.
When are permits not required?
Please note that permits are required with the majority of construction projects. Homeowners doing work are also required to apply for permits.
Do not start or schedule work without first confirming if permits are required. Permits are required for but not limited to the following:
- Any structural changes, new construction, additions, or interior remodels will always require a permit.
- Any exterior work on Historic property or property located in Foxwalk District will always require a permit.
- Any work in the Public Right of Way will always require permit and may require a licensed Public Works Contractor.
- Roofing work will always require a permit.
- Electrical, Plumbing, and/or Mechanical work may require permit.
- New and/or replacement of existing structures (Deck, Fence, Garage, Shed, Pergolas/Gazebos, etc.) will require permit.
Permits are not required for the following:
- Interior cosmetic work such as painting, flooring, and carpeting.
- Siding (Except for properties in a Historic/Foxwalk District)
- Windows being replaced for the same size (Except for properties in a Historic/Foxwalk District)
- Water Heater Replacement (Except if the unit is going from tank to tankless)
- Backyard Patios that are not connected to a driveway. Please note that Zoning Ordinance requires each property maintain a percent of the
- property as green space. Please reach out to Zoning if you have questions: 630-256-3080.
- Low Voltage Electrical (50 volts or less)
- Sewer work on private property. Please note any Interior Plumbing work or work in the Right of way would require a permit.
Can I submit a permit application online?
Yes! All permits may be submitted through the e-TRAKiT Online Portal.
How much does a permit cost?
The Permit Fee Schedule is available at: Permit Fee Schedule
If I own my home can I be my own Contractor?
If the property is owner occupied and will remain owner occupied for a minimum of 6 months, then the homeowner may complete a Homeowner Liability Waiver. Waiver would require a copy of a government issued ID listing the same address as the property.
Any Electrical work exceeding $500 would require a licensed Electrical Contractor.
How do I register as a Contractor?
How do I schedule Inspections on my permit?
Inspections may be scheduled via the e-TRAKiT Online Portal
Inspections are conducted Monday-Friday from 9am-3pm. Should you like to confirm a tighter inspection window, then please reach out to your Inspector(s) the morning of the Inspection between 7:30am-8:30am. Inspector Contact Information is available: Review Timeframes & Inspector Contact Information(PDF, 180KB)
What codes has Aurora adopted?
Our current Codes & Ordinances are available at: Aurora Municode
Contact Us
Phone
(630) 256-3130
Fax
(630) 256-3139
Location
77 S Broadway, 1st Floor
Aurora, IL 60505
View Map
Hours
Monday - Friday
8 a.m. - 5 p.m.