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Building permits in Downers Grove, IL
In Downers Grove, most projects need a permit, and applications go through the Village's online portal only. Here is how the process works.
What needs a permit
- The Village says most projects require a permit of some type, and recommends calling before you start.
- Decks, remodels, basements and additions should all be checked with the Village first.
How to apply
- Applications can only be submitted online through the Village's permit portal.
- Upload the drawings and documents for your project type. Each file must be under 50 MB.
- Fees are added after approval and must be paid before work begins.
Review and inspections
- The first review takes about 10 business days. Responses to review comments are checked within five business days.
- Request inspections in the portal or by phone, with 48 to 72 hours' notice.
Contact the village
Downers Grove Community Development · 630-434-5515 (inspections: 630-434-5529)
Summarized from the village's own pages in October 2026. Rules change, so confirm with the village before you start. Sources: Downers Grove permits.
Let us handle it
For projects we build in Downers Grove, we tell you what the village requires, help prepare the paperwork and coordinate each inspection. More about our work in Downers Grove.
Questions
Do I need a permit to finish a basement in Downers Grove?
The Village says most projects require a permit of some type, and recommends calling before you start. Decks, remodels, basements and additions should all be checked with the Village first.
Who applies for the permit?
For projects we build, we tell you what the village requires, help prepare the paperwork and coordinate the inspections.
Planning a project in Downers Grove?