Getting ready for a new roof in IL? You have a lot to look forward to — including choosing beautiful new roofing materials and enjoying the impressed look on your neighbors’ faces when they see what you’ve done with your roof.
However, you can also expect to be confronted with some red tape with Illinois law. That part of the process is less fun, but knowing what to expect as you get the right roofing and building permit for Illinois and Illinois roofing license requirements makes it easier.
When Is a Building Permit Required in Illinois?
The fact that there are no state-wide regulations related to permits in Illinois makes this a difficult question to answer. The gist? The situations in which construction permits are required depend on exactly where in Illinois you live, because every city and municipality has its own rules.
As of January 1, 2025, the new Public Act 103-0510 requiring every roofing project to comply with state-wide building codes will come into force. However, your local municipality remains the authority on this question — so if you’d like location-specific information about a building permit and zoning laws, check its website or give them a call.
Don’t worry, though — you don’t need a permit application for all roofing. Minor repairs covering less than 25 percent of your roof’s total surface generally don’t call for licensed roofing. Even if you do need a building permit because you’re opting for a complete roof replacement or plan to make major upgrades, many municipalities offer express permits for Illinois that make the process fast and (relatively) simple.
Again, as a permit applicant, for complete replacements or substantial upgrades, you’ll need a building permit. Fortunately, many areas in Illinois provide express permits, streamlining the process for homeowners.
What Should Illinois Homeowners Know About Residential Roofing Codes?
As of right now, every IL jurisdiction sets its own roof installation guidelines and building codes — but that’s about to change. Starting in 2025, new Illinois-wide building codes will simplify what roofers and homeowners need to know. Codes governing sheathing, decks, vents, flashing, inspection, shingles, truss work, and more will be the same across the state. Curious homeowners can find out more about roofing compliance in Public Act 103-0510.
What About Contractor Licensing?
Plenty of cowboys who have no clue what they’re doing would line up to work on your property if they could, but thankfully, Illinois law has very strong protections for homeowners. Only license contractors are allowed to carry out their work— no matter how minor.
Two types of permits exist. A limited roofing license covers a permit applicant who does residential roofing, while roofers who also perform commercial roofing need an unlimited roofing license.
Although choosing the best roofer for the job should be a thorough process (and we have a whole guide on hiring roofing contractors if you’d like to learn more), verifying the roofing company’s license should always be part of the process. It’s easy — just check with the Illinois Division of Professional Regulation to be on the safe side.
Even subcontractors fall under this Illinois law, so they’ll also need to be licensed and insured. The only exception is you. If you, as a homeowner, want to carry out your own roofing work, you’re allowed to do that in Illinois, even if you’re not a professional roofer. However, you’ll still have to follow roofing safety regulations to stay safe up there.
What About Illinois Roofing Licenses and CRCA?
The Illinois Roofing Contractors Association (CRCA) supports licensed roofing contractors and ensures that industry professionals meet the highest standards. CRCA members are typically licensed and insured and follow ethical business practices, making them a qualified choice for homeowners looking to hire.
When considering permit application and choosing a roofing contractor, make sure they are affiliated with the CRCA. CRCA roofers stay informed about current IL roofing industry standards and building codes. Additionally, CRCA members are bound by guidelines designed to prevent fraud and identity theft, so you rest assured that your roofing contractor will be trustworthy and professional.
Table 1: Types of roofing permits
| Type of Roofing Permit | Description |
| Residential Roofing Permit | Required for major replacements, including complete overhauls of existing roofs or major upgrades. |
| Express Permit | Simplified permits for roofing projects that are fast-tracked by municipalities, typically for minor repairs. |
| Roofing Repair Permit | Needed for repairs covering more than 25% of the total surface area. |
| Commercial Permit | For roofing projects involving commercial buildings. These often require additional inspections. |
| Emergency Permit | A special permit granted in emergency situations to address damage caused by storms or other incidents. |
| Temporary Permit | A permit allowing for short-term repairs to ensure safety while the permanent roofing work is being planned. |
Have Questions About Permits in Illinois?
Hiring the right roofing company in Machesney Park, IL, is hard enough on its own — and many homeowners dread navigating the process of getting permits. Pro Restoration makes it easy for you. We won’t just install a durable and beautiful roof or make the necessary repairs to add years to your existing roof, but we’ll also help you sail through the paperwork.
Whether you’re ready for a replacement or you still have questions, don’t be afraid to ask Pro Restoration about permits in IL or check how we make sure everything we do is compliant with building codes.
