Getting a Driveway Permit in Chicago
Different cities have different requirements for construction, but one commonality is that both residential and commercial spaces need a driveway. When obtaining a driveway permit in Chicago, keep in mind that local requirements may differ from those in other cities. This type of permit grants approval to an owner, allowing them to install a driveway in compliance with City of Chicago standards. However, contractors must go through different application processes for residential permits versus commercial permits.
A residential permit is valid for property that does not exceed 4 residential units. The fee is only $10 but cannot be transferred to a new owner. In such a case, a new application would have to be filed. The documentation required for this permit includes:
- Completed application
- Five copies of a plat of survey for proposed driveway application and two copies are required for existing driveway application or sketch showing exact location and the entire site being served by existing driveway showing curb cut.
- One photograph of driveway or proposed location showing curb and sidewalk area.
- Certificate of insurance (property owner’s) for $250,000 of personal liability naming the City of Chicago, its officers, employees or agents as additionally insured with respect to the driveway approach at the property location.
- Permanent Index Number (PIN) for the property.
A commercial permit is necessary when a property contains a commercial business, more than 4 residential units, a combined residential/commercial business, a school, a church, etc. The fee for a commercial driveway permit varies slightly based on the width. The minimum fee is $100 and increases at $2 per foot of added width over 25 feet. If building within the Central Business District, these fees are doubled. The documentation required for this permit includes:
- Completed application
- Five copies of a dimensioned site plan, drawn to scale. Plan must show entire site and all proposed and existing driveways (all existing driveways to be removed must be noted and shown on the site plan).
- Three photographs of each driveway showing curb and sidewalk area.
- Certificate of insurance (property owner’s) with a combined single limit in the amount of $1,000,000. The City of Chicago its officers, employees or agents must be listed as additionally insured in respect to each driveway approach at the property location.
- Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) or Social Security Number and Permanent Index Number (PIN) for the property.
Additionally, whether residential or commercial, if the permit is for a proposed driveway, an application can take a minimum of 30 days for approval. This is much longer than the one week timeline for existing driveways. Overall, with a bit of guidance, obtaining the necessary permit can be a smooth process.
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