The Building Department is responsible for:
- Issuing permits
- Reviewing and approving plans
- Inspecting for compliance of applicable building codes
- Ensuring zoning compliance
- Issuing Business /Liquor Licenses
The following most common projects require a permit:
- New construction, renovations, additions, and structural modifications
- Building or interior demolition
- Siding, windows, and exterior door installation
- Patios, decks, and outdoor kitchens
- Swimming pools and spas
- Retention walls
- Extensive landscaping
- Sewer & water connection or repairs
- Detached structures, garages, sheds, gazebos
- Roofing, skylights, daylighting pipes, solar panels
- All electrical, plumbing, and mechanical modifications
- Backup generators
- Changes in topography, when 10 or more cubic yards of fill are involved
- Driveways and fences
- Tree and woodland removal (removal of dead trees requires a permit)
The most common Village Code violations include:
- Performing work without a permit
- Unpermitted tree removal and other woodland violations
- Unpermitted filling of low spots with soil & other changes in elevation
- Unpermitted changes to stormwater drainage
Please contact the bldg [at] riverwoods.gov (subject: Building%20Permit%20Question) (Building Department) if you are not sure whether your project requires a permit.