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§ 02
When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Tazewell County
New dwellings, additions, structural alterations, swimming pools (above/in-ground), fences, signs, and detached accessory structures.
Cosmetic updates (painting, wallpapering, carpeting)
Minor landscaping
Repair of existing structures that does not involve structural changes or utility alterations
- Exempt Cosmetic updates (painting, wallpapering, carpeting)
- Exempt Minor landscaping
- Exempt Repair of existing structures that does not involve structural changes or utility alterations
Required documents
- Application
- Construction drawings (2 sets)
- Site plan
- Septic permit
- Road access permit
- 911 address application (for new sites)
- Building code
- 2018 IRC (Residential), 2018 IBC (Commercial), 2017 NEC (Electrical), Illinois Plumbing Code, Illinois Energy Conservation Code.
- Permit validity
- Work must start within 6 months and be completed within 18 months.
- Owner-builder
- Homeowners may perform their own work but must follow all codes and pass inspections.
- Contractor requirements
- Plumbers must be state-licensed. Contractors must provide proof of insurance/registration where applicable.
§ 03
Application process
Typical processing: 5-10 business days for residential.
- 01 Download the appropriate PDF application (Residential, Commercial, or Miscellaneous) from the website.
- 02 Complete all sections, including mechanical contractors (electrical, plumbing, HVAC).
- 03 Prepare a site plan showing lot dimensions, existing structures, proposed structures, and setbacks from property lines.
- 04 Obtain required external approvals: Septic permit from Tazewell County Health Department (309-477-2223) and Road Access permit (Township, County, or IDOT).
- 05 Submit application and plans via email to zoning@tazewell-il.gov or in person.
- 06 Pay permit fees upon approval.
Typical processing time: 5-10 business days for residential.
§ 04
Fee schedule
Tazewell County building permit fees
Fee type
Amount
01
Minimum permit fee
Approximately $50
02
Plan check fee
Typically included in permit fee for residential.
03
Permit fee formula
Combination. New dwellings based on square footage ($550 - $975+). Miscellaneous items are flat fees.
04
Reinspection fee
$65 per hour for reinspections; fees doubled if work starts without permit.
05
Penalty (no permit)
Fees doubled if work starts without permit.
Payment accepted by check or cash at the Community Development office.
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.
§ 05
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
How to schedule
- (309) 477-2235 (phone)
- Inspection hours
- Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Typical sequence: Footing/Foundation, Rough-in (Electric, Plumbing, Framing), Insulation, Final.
§ 06
Frequently asked
Common questions about unincorporated Tazewell County permits
01 Do I need a building permit in unincorporated Tazewell County, IL? ▸
New dwellings, additions, structural alterations, swimming pools (above/in-ground), fences, signs, and detached accessory structures.
02 How much does a building permit cost in unincorporated Tazewell County, IL? ▸
Building permit fees in unincorporated Tazewell County, IL are set by the local building department and vary by project type and valuation. The minimum permit fee is Approximately $50. Fees are calculated as: Combination. New dwellings based on square footage ($550 - $975+). Miscellaneous items are flat fees.. Plan check fee: Typically included in permit fee for residential..
03 How do I apply for a building permit in unincorporated Tazewell County, IL? ▸
To apply for a building permit in unincorporated Tazewell County, IL, follow these steps: 1. Download the appropriate PDF application (Residential, Commercial, or Miscellaneous) from the website. 2. Complete all sections, including mechanical contractors (electrical, plumbing, HVAC). 3. Prepare a site plan showing lot dimensions, existing structures, proposed structures, and setbacks from property lines. 4. Obtain required external approvals: Septic permit from Tazewell County Health Department (309-477-2223) and Road Access permit (Township, County, or IDOT). 5. Submit application and plans via email to zoning@tazewell-il.gov or in person. 6. Pay permit fees upon approval.
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in unincorporated Tazewell County, IL? ▸
Building permit processing times in unincorporated Tazewell County, IL typically run 5-10 business days for residential.. Timelines can vary based on project complexity and current department workload.
05 What work is exempt from building permits in unincorporated Tazewell County, IL? ▸
Not all construction work requires a permit in unincorporated Tazewell County, IL. The following work is generally exempt: Cosmetic updates (painting, wallpapering, carpeting); Minor landscaping; Repair of existing structures that does not involve structural changes or utility alterations. When in doubt, confirm with the local building department before starting work.
06 How do I schedule a building inspection in unincorporated Tazewell County, IL? ▸
Once your permit is issued and work reaches an inspection milestone, you can schedule a building inspection in unincorporated Tazewell County, IL via: (309) 477-2235.
last verified April 2026
source Tazewell County Community Development ↗
entry id permits/illinois/tazewell/tazewell-county
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Tazewell County Community Development before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.