Swimming Pool, Hot Tub, or Spa 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 Pool & Hot Tub permit in Union
Small above-ground pools (kiddie pools) less than 24 inches deep are exempt from a building permit in Union, IL under 2021 IRC AG105. A barrier may still be required if the pool can be filled with more than 24 inches of water. Verify with the Village Building Inspector at (815) 923-4153 (available Tuesdays 3 PM to 4 PM) before starting work.
When you need a Pool & Hot Tub permit in Union
Above-ground pools that hold water 24 inches deep or more require a building permit in Union, IL with a 4-foot pool barrier and electrical bonding under 2021 IRC Appendix AG. Verify with the Village Building Inspector at (815) 923-4153 (available Tuesdays 3 PM to 4 PM) before starting work.
In-ground pools always require a building permit in Union, IL with structural plans, a 4-foot barrier, and electrical bonding under 2021 IRC Appendix AG. Verify with the Village Building Inspector at (815) 923-4153 (available Tuesdays 3 PM to 4 PM) before starting work.
What Makes Union Different
Here's how Union's swimming pool, hot tub, or spa rules stack up against the standard IRC baseline that most of the country follows.
Stricter Than the IRC
Above-ground pools that hold water 24 inches deep or more require a building permit in Union, IL with a 4-foot pool barrier and electrical bonding under 2021 IRC Appendix AG. Verify with the Village Building Inspector at (815) 923-4153 (available Tuesdays 3 PM to 4 PM) before starting work.
1 rule match the IRC baseline, no surprises there.
Swimming Pool, Hot Tub, or Spa Permit Costs: Union vs. Nearby
| City | Estimated Fee |
|---|---|
| Union | N/A |
| Chicago | $165 – $1,650 |
| Aurora | $128 – $1,275 |
| Joliet | $120 – $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
Pools may require zoning approval for setback compliance. Many jurisdictions have minimum distance requirements from property lines and easements.
Estimated Project Timeline in Union
Here's a typical timeline for a swimming pool, hot tub, or spa 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 Swimming Pool, Hot Tub, or Spa permit fee information. Fees typically vary based on project scope and valuation.
It depends on the specifics of your project. Some smaller Swimming Pool, Hot Tub, or Spa 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 Swimming Pool, Hot Tub, or Spa permits in Union is about 2 weeks. More complex projects may take longer if plan review is required.
Learn More About Swimming Pool, Hot Tub, or Spa Permits
Read our complete guide covering permit requirements, costs, common exemptions, and the application process.
Read Swimming Pool, Hot Tub, or Spa Guide →