City Building Permits

Madison, ILLINOIS Building Permit Guide

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

Illinois Madison County Updated March 2026

Permit Authority

City of Madison limits.

Department
Building Inspection Department
Address
615 Madison Avenue, Madison, IL 62060
Phone
(618) 876-6268

Online Permit Portal

Platform: In-house / City Website • Account required: Yes • Submission: In-person only

Application Process

  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.

Typical processing time: Not specified.

Source: Building Inspection Department

General Requirements

New construction, exterior work (roofs, siding, porches, garages, fences), internal systems (electric/plumbing/HVAC), demolition.

Required Documents

  • Detailed plans
  • Recorded deed
  • Contractor business license
Permit validity
Not specified.
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.

Fees

Minimum permit fee
$25.00
Plan check fee
Varies
Permit fee formula
$25 for <$1,000; $50 + $5 per $1,000 over $1,000. Flat fees for fences/decks ($40) and roofs ($50).
Reinspection fee
Occupancy permit $60
Payment note
Payments made at City Hall

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

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

  • Sheds/accessory structures under 200 sq ft
  • 1-for-1 window replacement (same size)
  • Minor repairs under $1,000 (non-structural/electric/plumbing)

Inspections

How to Schedule

  • (618) 876-6268 (phone)
Inspection hours
Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Typical inspection sequence: 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 Inspection Department before applying.

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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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