Frequently Asked Questions

Building permits are important in protecting your safety and the safety of those around you. Rock Island County requires permits to ensure that construction is being done properly and in accordance with all life safety requirements and all building codes. Also, the permit process provides you with protection. It ensures that you or your contractor, comply with the codes adopted by the County Board. The permit process also gives you access to qualified inspectors who can provide knowledge and guidance throughout your construction project. Rock Island County is also graded by an independent company that looks at what codes we have adopted and the process for how they are enforced. This review can have an effect on your homeowner's insurance. Failing to obtain the proper permits may complicate or cancel the sale of your home. During the home inspection or appraisal process, homeowners may have to show that the proper permits are on file. If the lending bank learns that remodeling work was done without securing permits, it may likely not qualify for the loan.

Any owner, authorized agent or contractor who desires to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by the Rock Island County and adopted codes, or to cause any such work to be done, shall first make application to the Building Official and obtain the required permit. Building permits are required for all improvements to a property if it is located in the floodplain: there are no exemptions. If the improvement is insurable, it requires a permit.

Fees vary with the value of the work being done using contractors' bids or national averages, including labor. Persons not obtaining a permit prior to beginning a project shall be charged double. No exceptions.

The best way to find out if you need a permit is to call the Zoning and Building Department at 309-558-3771. Discuss your plans with the building inspector before you begin construction to determine whether you need a permit.