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§ 02
When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Cortland
All new construction, additions, sheds (even <120 sq ft), fences, decks, roofing, siding, driveways.
Painting, tiling, carpeting, cabinetry
Small minor repairs
- Exempt Painting, tiling, carpeting, cabinetry
- Exempt Small minor repairs
Required documents
- Application
- Plat of Survey
- Plans
- Contractor info
- Building code
- 2021 IBC/IRC
- Permit validity
- 180 days
- Owner-builder
- Residential owners may perform work.
- Contractor requirements
- Must be registered with Town.
§ 03
Application process
Typical processing: 10-14 days
- 01 Obtain Certificate of Zoning Compliance.
- 02 Submit Building Permit Application with 2 sets of plans.
- 03 Plan review by Building Official.
- 04 Notification of approval and fees.
- 05 Payment via Our Community Connect portal.
Typical processing time: 10-14 days
§ 04
Fee schedule
Cortland building permit fees
Fee type
Amount
01
Minimum permit fee
$75
02
Permit fee formula
Flat fees for minor; valuation for major
03
Penalty (no permit)
Double fee for work started without permit
Online via Our Community Connect
§ 05
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
How to schedule
- 815-756-1500 (phone)
- Inspection hours
- Business hours
Typical sequence: Foundation, Rough, Final
§ 06
Frequently asked
Common questions about Cortland permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Cortland, IL? ▸
All new construction, additions, sheds (even <120 sq ft), fences, decks, roofing, siding, driveways.
02 How much does a building permit cost in Cortland, IL? ▸
Building permit fees in Cortland, IL are set by the local building department and vary by project type and valuation. The minimum permit fee is $75. Fees are calculated as: Flat fees for minor; valuation for major.
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Cortland, IL? ▸
To apply for a building permit in Cortland, IL, follow these steps: 1. Obtain Certificate of Zoning Compliance. 2. Submit Building Permit Application with 2 sets of plans. 3. Plan review by Building Official. 4. Notification of approval and fees. 5. Payment via Our Community Connect portal.
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Cortland, IL? ▸
Building permit processing times in Cortland, IL typically run 10-14 days. Timelines can vary based on project complexity and current department workload.
05 What work is exempt from building permits in Cortland, IL? ▸
Not all construction work requires a permit in Cortland, IL. The following work is generally exempt: Painting, tiling, carpeting, cabinetry; Small minor repairs. When in doubt, confirm with the local building department before starting work.
06 How do I schedule a building inspection in Cortland, IL? ▸
Once your permit is issued and work reaches an inspection milestone, you can schedule a building inspection in Cortland, IL via: 815-756-1500.
last verified April 2026
source Town of Cortland Building Department ↗
entry id permits/illinois/dekalb/cortland
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Town of Cortland Building Department before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.