On this page 6
§ 02
When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Madison
New construction, exterior work (roofs, siding, porches, garages, fences), internal systems (electric/plumbing/HVAC), demolition.
Sheds/accessory structures under 200 sq ft
1-for-1 window replacement (same size)
Minor repairs under $1,000 (non-structural/electric/plumbing)
- Exempt Sheds/accessory structures under 200 sq ft
- Exempt 1-for-1 window replacement (same size)
- Exempt Minor repairs under $1,000 (non-structural/electric/plumbing)
Required documents
- Detailed plans
- Recorded deed
- Contractor business license
- Building code
- 2024 IBC, 2024 IRC, 2023 NEC
- Owner-builder
- Owners may perform their own roofing (exempt from state license).
- Contractor requirements
- Contractors must have a valid City Business License.
§ 03
Application process
Application → plan check → issuance → inspection → final
- 01 Create an account on the City of Madison website or visit City Hall.
- 02 Submit application with plans, recorded deed, and contractor info.
- 03 Department reviews for zoning and land development compliance.
- 04 Pay fees upon approval.
- 05 Mandatory inspections at specific milestones.
Source: Building Inspection Department ↗
§ 04
Fee schedule
Madison building permit fees
Fee type
Amount
01
Minimum permit fee
$25.00
02
Permit fee formula
$25 for <$1,000; $50 + $5 per $1,000 over $1,000. Flat fees for fences/decks ($40) and roofs ($50).
03
Reinspection fee
Occupancy permit $60
Payments made at City Hall
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.
§ 05
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
How to schedule
- (618) 876-6268 (phone)
- Inspection hours
- Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Typical sequence: Rough-in, Final
§ 06
Frequently asked
Common questions about Madison permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Madison, IL? ▸
New construction, exterior work (roofs, siding, porches, garages, fences), internal systems (electric/plumbing/HVAC), demolition.
02 How much does a building permit cost in Madison, IL? ▸
Building permit fees in Madison, IL are set by the local building department and vary by project type and valuation. The minimum permit fee is $25.00. Fees are calculated as: $25 for <$1,000; $50 + $5 per $1,000 over $1,000. Flat fees for fences/decks ($40) and roofs ($50)..
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Madison, IL? ▸
To apply for a building permit in Madison, IL, follow these steps: 1. Create an account on the City of Madison website or visit City Hall. 2. Submit application with plans, recorded deed, and contractor info. 3. Department reviews for zoning and land development compliance. 4. Pay fees upon approval. 5. Mandatory inspections at specific milestones.
04 What work is exempt from building permits in Madison, IL? ▸
Not all construction work requires a permit in Madison, IL. The following work is generally exempt: Sheds/accessory structures under 200 sq ft; 1-for-1 window replacement (same size); Minor repairs under $1,000 (non-structural/electric/plumbing). When in doubt, confirm with the local building department before starting work.
05 How do I schedule a building inspection in Madison, IL? ▸
Once your permit is issued and work reaches an inspection milestone, you can schedule a building inspection in Madison, IL via: (618) 876-6268.
last verified April 2026
source Building Inspection Department ↗
entry id permits/illinois/madison/madison-city
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Building Inspection Department before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.