Building Development Services & Zoning » Work requiring a permit

Work requiring a permit

For the protection of the property owner, neighbors and the Village, property owners are required to apply for permits prior to the commencement of work. If a permit is not obtained, the work will be stopped until a permit is issued, a surcharge will be added to the cost of the permit, and any work performed without a permit may be subject to removal.

Work that requires a permit

View the complete list of work that requires a permit in River Forest.

Work hours in the Village of River Forest:

  • 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. - Monday through Friday
  • 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. - Saturdays
  • No work on Sundays, New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving or Christmas

Work that does not require a permit

Portable Room Heaters Replacing Existing Hearth
Residential Driveway Seal Coating

Wall Coverings & Painting

Residential Landscaping (No Grade Change) Water Heater (Replacement)
Window and Door Screens Window Air Conditioners
Cabinets (Kitchen, Bath, Etc.) Low Voltage Wiring
Countertop (Kitchen, Bath, Etc.)

Trim Work

Garage Overhead Door Cable/Phone Wiring
Garage Service Door

Private Tree Removal

Alarm System (Registration Recommended)

Replacement HVAC