City Building Permits

Aurora, IL - 2026 Building Permit Guide

How to apply for a building permit in Aurora, Illinois. Permit authority, application steps, fees, and inspection requirements.

Illinois Kane County Updated March 2026

Permit Authority

Handles building permits for all areas within Aurora city limits, including portions in Kane, DuPage, Kendall, and Will counties.

Department
City of Aurora Building & Permits
Address
77 S. Broadway, Aurora, IL 60505
Phone
630-256-3120
Website
https://www.aurora-il.us/242/Building-Permits

Online Permit Portal

Open e-TRAKiT

Platform: e-TRAKiT • Account required: Yes • Submission: In-person only

Application Process

  1. Submit application and plans via e-TRAKiT portal.
  2. Plan review by various departments (Building, Zoning, Engineering).
  3. Notification of approval or request for revisions.
  4. Payment of permit fees online.
  5. Permit issuance and printing of placard.

Typical processing time: 10-15 business days for standard residential; 2-5 days for express permits (water heaters, etc.)

Source: City of Aurora Building & Permits

General Requirements

Any new construction, addition, alteration, or repair of a building or structure. Includes electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work.

Required Documents

  • Site plan
  • Construction drawings (architectural/structural)
  • Plat of survey
  • Energy code compliance (REScheck/COMcheck)
Permit validity
Valid for 6 months from issuance if no work starts; expires if work is suspended for more than 180 days.
Building code
2015 International Codes (I-Series); moving to 2024 I-Series in April 2025. 2023 NEC.
Owner-builder
Owners may perform work on their primary residence but must sign an owner-occupant affidavit.
Contractor requirements
Electricians and plumbers must be state-licensed. General contractors must be registered with the city.

Fees

Minimum permit fee
$70
Permit fee formula
Combination. Base fees plus per-square-foot or valuation-based charges for large projects.
Reinspection fee
$75 per failed inspection
Payment note
Online payments via credit card or e-check

Fees change. Verify current amounts at the official fee schedule.

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

  • Siding and window replacement (same size) unless in a Historic or Foxwalk District
  • Backyard patios not connected to a driveway
  • Low-voltage electrical (50 volts or less)
  • Replacing a light fixture or outlet in-kind
  • Painting, wallpapering, and carpeting

Inspections

How to Schedule

Inspection hours
Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Typical inspection sequence: Footing, Foundation, Underground Plumbing, Rough (Elec/Plumb/Mech/Frame), Insulation, Final.

Additional Resources

Information on this page was last verified: March 2026. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with the City of Aurora Building & Permits before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Aurora Building Permit FAQ

Do I need a building permit in Aurora, IL?
Any new construction, addition, alteration, or repair of a building or structure. Includes electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work.
How much does a building permit cost in Aurora, IL?
The minimum permit fee is $70. Fees are calculated as: Combination. Base fees plus per-square-foot or valuation-based charges for large projects..
How do I apply for a building permit in Aurora, IL?
1. Submit application and plans via e-TRAKiT portal. 2. Plan review by various departments (Building, Zoning, Engineering). 3. Notification of approval or request for revisions. 4. Payment of permit fees online. 5. Permit issuance and printing of placard.
How long does it take to get a building permit in Aurora, IL?
Typical processing time is 10-15 business days for standard residential; 2-5 days for express permits (water heaters, etc.).
What work is exempt from building permits in Aurora, IL?
The following work is generally exempt: Siding and window replacement (same size) unless in a Historic or Foxwalk District; Backyard patios not connected to a driveway; Low-voltage electrical (50 volts or less); Replacing a light fixture or outlet in-kind; Painting, wallpapering, and carpeting.
How do I schedule a building inspection in Aurora, IL?
Inspections can be scheduled via: e-TRAKiT portal, inspections@auroragov.org.

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Important: This page is an educational resource provided by jaspector.com. It is not legal advice, and it does not substitute for official guidance from the permit authority listed above. Permit requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with the issuing department before beginning any construction project. Use of this page does not create an attorney-client relationship. Jaspector assumes no liability for any outcomes arising from reliance on this information.

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