Permit Required? Required
Typical Fee Range $250–$900 Level 1 alterations without structural changes start at $250 base; higher if MEP systems are moved.
Fee Method Project-based
Apply Online Apply at Chicago Department of Buildings →

What's Required in Chicago

  • Permit required for any movement of plumbing fixtures (toilet, tub, sink) or electrical outlets.
  • Electrical outlets must be GFCI-protected and circuits must meet current amperage codes.
  • Exhaust fans are required in bathrooms without an operable window of at least 3 sq ft.
  • Shower pan liners must be flood-tested and inspected before tile application.
  • Like-for-like cabinet or floor replacement does not require a permit if no utilities are moved.
  • Contractors must be licensed with the City of Chicago (Plumbing/Electrical licenses).

Do You Need a Permit to Remodel a Bathroom in Chicago

It depends on what you’re changing. A cosmetic bathroom refresh in Chicago — new paint, a vanity or toilet swapped in the same spot, re-tiling, or replacing a faucet — usually doesn’t need a building permit. You cross into permit territory once you move or add plumbing or electrical, relocate fixtures, change the layout, remove or move a wall, or add square footage. Because remodels often bundle plumbing and electrical work, many projects need those trade permits even when the building permit is borderline. Check the specifics with the Chicago Department of Buildings; the requirements above outline what Chicago treats as permit-worthy.

What Bathroom Work Needs a Permit in Chicago

In Chicago, the trigger is usually moving systems, not refreshing surfaces. Work that typically requires a permit: relocating or adding plumbing (moving a toilet, sink, or shower drain), adding a shower or tub where there wasn’t one, new or moved electrical circuits and outlets, removing or altering a wall, converting a half bath to a full bath, or turning another room into a bathroom. Like-for-like swaps in the same location — same toilet spot, same tub footprint — usually don’t. Even removing a tub can need a plumbing permit if the drain is capped or moved, so confirm with the Chicago Department of Buildings before you start.

How to Get a Bathroom Remodel Permit in Chicago

1

Step 1: Check Easy Permit Eligibility

Apply via Easy Permit if only replacing fixtures or moving minor electrical/plumbing.

2

Step 2: Portal Application

Enter project details and contractor license numbers in the online portal.

3

Step 3: Fee Payment

Pay the permit fee online (usually $250–$600 for typical remodels).

4

Step 4: Rough Inspections

Schedule inspections for plumbing and electrical before closing walls.

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Step 5: Final Inspection

Complete the work and schedule the final trade sign-offs.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, simple like-for-like fixture replacement without moving the drain is generally exempt.
Easy Permits are often issued within 1–3 business days online.
No, Chicago requires a licensed electrical contractor to perform and permit all electrical work.
Only if you’re changing more than surfaces. Cosmetic work in Chicago — paint, re-tiling, swapping a vanity or toilet in the same spot — usually needs no permit, but moving or adding plumbing or electrical, relocating fixtures, or changing the layout does. Confirm the scope with the Chicago Department of Buildings.
Yes — relocating a toilet, sink, or shower drain, or adding a new fixture, generally requires a plumbing permit in Chicago, even inside a cosmetic-looking remodel. Replacing a fixture in the same spot usually doesn’t. Check with the Chicago Department of Buildings.