Garage Permit Requirements in Union, IL
Village of Union handles its own building permits (McHenry County only covers unincorporated areas, not incorporated villages). Building Inspector is available one hour per week, Tuesdays 3 PM to 4 PM. The village has not published its adopted residential code edition online; rules below use IRC 2021 as baseline (the most common adoption in the Chicago metro). No published fee schedule, no online application portal. Apply in person during Village Hall hours or email permits@unionillinois.org. Illinois state plumbing code (IDPH-licensed plumbers) and electrical licensing requirements apply regardless of local code adoption.
By Joey, Founder · Last verified April 18, 2026 · How we research →
When you don’t need a Garage permit in Union
A detached accessory structure (including a small garage or carport) up to 200 square feet is exempt from a building permit in Union, IL under 2021 IRC R105.2. Verify with the Village Building Inspector at (815) 923-4153 (available Tuesdays 3 PM to 4 PM) before starting work.
When you need a Garage permit in Union
A detached garage larger than 200 square feet requires a building permit in Union, IL with foundation, framing, and electrical sub-permits under 2021 IRC. Verify with the Village Building Inspector at (815) 923-4153 (available Tuesdays 3 PM to 4 PM) before starting work.
An attached garage requires a building permit in Union, IL because it shares a structural and fire-rated wall with the dwelling per 2021 IRC R302.6 (gypsum separation) and R302.5 (door requirements). Verify with the Village Building Inspector at (815) 923-4153 (available Tuesdays 3 PM to 4 PM) before starting work.
Garage Permit Costs: Union vs. Nearby
| City | Estimated Fee |
|---|---|
| Union | N/A |
| Chicago | $265 – $1,650 |
| Aurora | $205 – $1,275 |
| Joliet | $190 – $1,200 |
Fees shown are estimates based on local building code data. Actual fees may vary based on project scope and valuation. See all Union permit costs →
Zoning Considerations
Detached garages and carports may require zoning approval for setback and lot coverage compliance. Garage conversions to living space may trigger zoning occupancy requirements.
Estimated Project Timeline in Union
Here's a typical timeline for a garage project in Union, IL:
Timeline is based on Union's typical about 2 weeks permit processing time. Actual timelines vary by project complexity, completeness of application, and current department workload.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Contact Union's building department for current Garage permit fee information. Fees typically vary based on project scope and valuation.
It depends on the specifics of your project. Some smaller Garage projects may be exempt from permit requirements, while larger ones typically require a permit. Use our free lookup tool to check your specific situation.
Working without a required permit in Union can result in fines, stop-work orders, being required to remove completed work, and complications when selling your home. It's always best to check first.
Typical approval time for Garage permits in Union is about 2 weeks. More complex projects may take longer if plan review is required.
Learn More About Garage Permits
Read our complete guide covering permit requirements, costs, common exemptions, and the application process.
Read Garage Guide →