Alton, IL — 2026 Building Permit Guide

On this page 6

§ 01

Permit authority

Building & Zoning Department

Street address

101 E. Third Street, Alton, IL 62002

Phone

(618) 463-3533

gcaffey@cityofaltonil.gov

Coverage

City of Alton limits only. Properties in unincorporated Alton fall under Madison County jurisdiction.

Online portal

BS&A Online

Website

Department website

§ 02

When a permit is required

Permit triggers and exempt work for Alton

New construction, additions, structural alterations, roofing, siding, fences, decks, swimming pools, solar panels, and any project valued over $750.

Scope of work

Permit?

Painting, wallpapering, tiling, carpeting

Exempt

Cabinets, countertops, and similar finish work

Exempt

Minor repairs/alterations valued at $750.00 or less (not involving structural changes)

Exempt

Window replacement where opening size is unchanged

Exempt

Exempt Painting, wallpapering, tiling, carpeting
Exempt Cabinets, countertops, and similar finish work
Exempt Minor repairs/alterations valued at $750.00 or less (not involving structural changes)
Exempt Window replacement where opening size is unchanged

Required documents

Site plan
Construction drawings
Recorded deed (if requested)
Energy code compliance (REScheck/COMcheck)

Building code: 2021 IBC, 2021 IRC, 2020 NEC (as of Jan 1, 2025)
Permit validity: Typically 6-12 months.
Owner-builder: Homeowners may perform work on their primary residence.
Contractor requirements: Contractors must be registered and bonded with the city.

§ 03

Application process

Typical processing: Typically 5-10 business days for standard residential.

01

Create an account on BS&A Online or visit City Hall Room 204.
02

Submit application with project valuation, site plan, and detailed drawings.
03

Department reviews for zoning compliance and building code adherence.
04

Once approved, pay permit fees and receive the permit.

Typical processing time: Typically 5-10 business days for standard residential.

Source: Building & Zoning Department ↗

§ 04

Fee schedule

Alton building permit fees

Fee type

Amount

Minimum permit fee

$30.00

Permit fee formula

Valuation-based ($30 for first $1,000; rates increase with value)

Reinspection fee

$35.00 for missed appointments or re-inspections

Online payments accepted via BS&A portal

Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.

§ 05

Required inspections

Scheduling and sequence

How to schedule

(618) 463-3533 (phone)

Inspection hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Typical sequence: Footing, Foundation, Rough-in (Electric/Plumbing/Mechanical), Framing, Final

§ 06

Frequently asked

Common questions about Alton permits

01 Do I need a building permit in Alton, IL? ▸

New construction, additions, structural alterations, roofing, siding, fences, decks, swimming pools, solar panels, and any project valued over $750.

02 How much does a building permit cost in Alton, IL? ▸

Building permit fees in Alton, IL are set by the local building department and vary by project type and valuation. The minimum permit fee is $30.00. Fees are calculated as: Valuation-based ($30 for first $1,000; rates increase with value).

03 How do I apply for a building permit in Alton, IL? ▸

To apply for a building permit in Alton, IL, follow these steps: 1. Create an account on BS&A Online or visit City Hall Room 204. 2. Submit application with project valuation, site plan, and detailed drawings. 3. Department reviews for zoning compliance and building code adherence. 4. Once approved, pay permit fees and receive the permit.

04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Alton, IL? ▸

Building permit processing times in Alton, IL typically run Typically 5-10 business days for standard residential.. Timelines can vary based on project complexity and current department workload.

05 What work is exempt from building permits in Alton, IL? ▸

Not all construction work requires a permit in Alton, IL. The following work is generally exempt: Painting, wallpapering, tiling, carpeting; Cabinets, countertops, and similar finish work; Minor repairs/alterations valued at $750.00 or less (not involving structural changes); Window replacement where opening size is unchanged. When in doubt, confirm with the local building department before starting work.

06 How do I schedule a building inspection in Alton, IL? ▸

Once your permit is issued and work reaches an inspection milestone, you can schedule a building inspection in Alton, IL via: (618) 463-3533.

last verified April 2026 source Building & Zoning Department ↗ entry id permits/illinois/madison/alton

Report a correction

Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Building & Zoning Department before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.

City of Alton

Other jurisdictions in Madison County.