City Building Permits

Wood River, IL - 2026 Building Permit Guide

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

Illinois Madison County Updated March 2026

Permit Authority

City of Wood River limits.

Department
Building and Zoning Department
Address
111 North Wood River Avenue, Wood River, IL 62095
Phone
(618) 251-3100
Website
https://www.woodriver.org/departments/building_and_zoning/index.php

Online Permit Portal

Open City of Wood River

Platform: Manual submission • Account required: No • Submission: In-person only

Application Process

  1. Obtain permit application from City Hall or download online.
  2. Submit application with two sets of signed/sealed plans (for new residential).
  3. Site plans required for additions, sheds, decks, etc.
  4. Department reviews for code and zoning adherence.
  5. Pay fees and receive permit.

Source: Building and Zoning Department

General Requirements

New construction, additions, alterations, fences, pools, sheds, garages, decks.

Required Documents

  • Two sets of plans (sealed by architect for new homes)
  • Site plan with setbacks
Permit validity
12 months from issuance.
Building code
2021 IBC, 2021 IRC, 2020 NEC
Owner-builder
Permitted for primary residence.
Contractor requirements
Contractors must be registered.

Fees

Minimum permit fee
$20.00 (Fence)
Permit fee formula
Valuation-based for general permits; flat fees for fences

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

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

  • Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting
  • Cabinets, countertops, and similar finish work
  • Routine minor repairs (non-structural)

Inspections

How to Schedule

  • (618) 251-3100 (phone)
Inspection hours
Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Typical inspection sequence: Footing (size/setback and pour), Rough-in, Final

Additional Resources

Information on this page was last verified: March 2026. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with the Building and Zoning Department before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Wood River Building Permit FAQ

Do I need a building permit in Wood River, IL?
New construction, additions, alterations, fences, pools, sheds, garages, decks.
How much does a building permit cost in Wood River, IL?
The minimum permit fee is $20.00 (Fence). Fees are calculated as: Valuation-based for general permits; flat fees for fences.
How do I apply for a building permit in Wood River, IL?
1. Obtain permit application from City Hall or download online. 2. Submit application with two sets of signed/sealed plans (for new residential). 3. Site plans required for additions, sheds, decks, etc. 4. Department reviews for code and zoning adherence. 5. Pay fees and receive permit.
What work is exempt from building permits in Wood River, IL?
The following work is generally exempt: Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting; Cabinets, countertops, and similar finish work; Routine minor repairs (non-structural).
How do I schedule a building inspection in Wood River, IL?
Inspections can be scheduled via: (618) 251-3100.

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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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