Home / Permits / Bathroom remodel

Do you need a permit for a bathroom remodel?

Yes, in every north-suburb village, once the remodel touches plumbing or electrical, which nearly all of them do. The permit typically costs $100 to $500 or more, scaled to project value, and brings a rough inspection while the walls are open and a final. A cosmetic swap of vanity, paint and accessories in the same spot usually needs nothing.

Typical fee: $100-$500+, scaled to project value in most villages.

Why and when does a permit apply?

Bathroom remodels touch plumbing and usually electrical, and both are permit triggers in every north-suburb village. Cosmetic-only swaps (vanity in the same spot, paint, accessories) generally don't need one.

Inspections to expect

Rough plumbing/electrical while walls are open, then final.

Village by village

Fees and thresholds change; a 5-minute call to the village confirms your exact case. Related guide: What Does a Bathroom Remodel Cost in Chicagoland?