On this page 6
§ 02
When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Wood River
New construction, additions, alterations, fences, pools, sheds, garages, decks.
Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting
Cabinets, countertops, and similar finish work
Routine minor repairs (non-structural)
- Exempt Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting
- Exempt Cabinets, countertops, and similar finish work
- Exempt Routine minor repairs (non-structural)
Required documents
- Two sets of plans (sealed by architect for new homes)
- Site plan with setbacks
- Building code
- 2021 IBC, 2021 IRC, 2020 NEC
- Permit validity
- 12 months from issuance.
- Owner-builder
- Permitted for primary residence.
- Contractor requirements
- Contractors must be registered.
§ 03
Application process
Application → plan check → issuance → inspection → final
- 01 Obtain permit application from City Hall or download online.
- 02 Submit application with two sets of signed/sealed plans (for new residential).
- 03 Site plans required for additions, sheds, decks, etc.
- 04 Department reviews for code and zoning adherence.
- 05 Pay fees and receive permit.
Source: Building and Zoning Department ↗
§ 04
Fee schedule
Wood River building permit fees
Fee type
Amount
01
Minimum permit fee
$20.00 (Fence)
02
Permit fee formula
Valuation-based for general permits; flat fees for fences
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.
§ 05
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
How to schedule
- (618) 251-3100 (phone)
- Inspection hours
- Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Typical sequence: Footing (size/setback and pour), Rough-in, Final
§ 06
Frequently asked
Common questions about Wood River permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Wood River, IL? ▸
New construction, additions, alterations, fences, pools, sheds, garages, decks.
02 How much does a building permit cost in Wood River, IL? ▸
Building permit fees in Wood River, IL are set by the local building department and vary by project type and valuation. The minimum permit fee is $20.00 (Fence). Fees are calculated as: Valuation-based for general permits; flat fees for fences.
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Wood River, IL? ▸
To apply for a building permit in Wood River, IL, follow these steps: 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.
04 What work is exempt from building permits in Wood River, IL? ▸
Not all construction work requires a permit 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). When in doubt, confirm with the local building department before starting work.
05 How do I schedule a building inspection in Wood River, IL? ▸
Once your permit is issued and work reaches an inspection milestone, you can schedule a building inspection in Wood River, IL via: (618) 251-3100.
last verified April 2026
source Building and Zoning Department ↗
entry id permits/illinois/madison/wood-river
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Building and Zoning Department before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.