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1. Do I need a permit?

Permits are required for many types of work performed in or around your property, including but not limited to fences, decks, sheds, garages, patios, additions, new construction, signs and some remodel work. If you aren't sure if a permit is required, please call or stop by to discuss your project during the planning phase.

2. If my project does not require a permit, does the City still inspect the work?

All work, whether a permit is required or not, has to comply with the adopted building codes. Through the adoption of these codes, the City Building Inspector is granted the right to inspect any an all construction work performed in the CIty even if no permit is required.

3. Do I need a permit to install a new driveway?

No, the City of Monticello does not require a permit for a new driveway, however inspection of the approach portion (between property line and edge of the street) is required prior to placement.

4. Where does my property end and the City property begin?

There is no set dimension from edge or center of the road to the property line. Please contact the City Building Inspector for more information specific to your lot.

5. How do I know if there is an "easement" through my yard?

Easements are legally recorded agreements. There are often easements created for utilities, egress, etc. Easements are recorded at the Piatt County Clerk and Recorder's office located in the Piatt County Courthouse, and kept as public record.

6. What if I don't know where my property lines are?

If you aren't sure where your property lines are please stop in the see the Building INspector and discuss your proposed project. We may be able to offer assistance as to how to locate the pins, or after discussion, the exact location of the lines may not be necessary.

7. What if I am replacing an existing structure or fence?

Our current zoning and building regulations require a permit for many types of repair work, even if it is done to an existing fence or structure. If there is any question on if you need a permit or not, call or stop in to ask.

8. Why do I need a building permit?

The building permit review, approval and inspection process is a way that we at the City of Monticello can help protect the interest of the community. This is done by reviewing proposed work for compliance with our building and zoning requirements. Then we will inspect the work to ensure that it is being done in a workmanlike manner and that it is built per the approved plans/design.

9. What if I don't get a permit?

If work that requires a permit is performed prior to obtaining the permit, the CIty's recourse can range from charging double the fee for the correct permit(s) to requiring the removal of rework of some or all of the non-permitted construction.

10. How long does it take to get a permit?

Generally permits will be issued either the day they are applied for or the following working day. In some cases for large or unusual projects, the City may require up to 2 weeks. If you are planing a project that may not fit into the category of typical construction work, please involve us early in the planning, even if it is just to sit down and discuss your overall idea of what you would like to do.

11. How long is my permit valid for?

New construction permits are good for a period of 1 year. Commercial new construction permits are good for a period of 2 years. All other permits are good for 6 months from the date of issuance.

12. What if I don't get my project finished before the permit expires?

The building inspector has the option of issuing a permit extension for an additional 6 months. This permit extension requires the payment of an additional permit fee.

13. Are there penalties for not completing the project?

The adopted codes have provisions for non-conforming or non-complete work. The codes can be enforced through fines and/or court action at the City's discretion.

14. What inspections will be performed?

The number and type of inspections will vary from project to project. Any project that requires new foundation, new sanitary sewer service or new water service will have required inspections on those items at the least. Contact us for more information.

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1. Who are my Aldermen?

The City is broken into four wards. Each ward has two direct elected City Aldermen. To determine which ward you live in please refer to the Monticello Ward Map.

2. Can I watch the City Council meetings on tv?

Yes, all regularly scheduled city council meetings are recorded. Mediacom subscribers are able to view the most recent City Council meetings on Channel 2 daily at 10am and 7pm.

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1. What is the population of the City of Monticello?

The 2010 U.S. Census recorded Monticello's population at 5,548 residents.

2. I want to start a business, but don't know where to start. What do I do?

Contact our Director of Community Development, who will be able to advise you in site selection, financing and grant incentives, zoning regulations, business plan preparation, and much more! 217.762.2583.

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1. How can I become a vendor for the City of Monticello?

Vendors who are interested in selling products and services to the City of Monticello can contact the administration personnel to discuss their interest. Purchasing Services

2. When is the annual City Audit done?

The City of Monticello undergoes an annual audit of all finance operations and expense reports after the close of each fiscal year- typically in late summer.

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1. What can I legally burn and when can I burn it?

The City of Monticello does not allow buring of landscape or waste debris within city limits, but recreational fires in an appropriate fire pit are allowed.

2. How do I join the Fire Department?

You can complete an application for the Monticello Fire & Rescue Department and submit it to the Municipal Building.

3. How often does the Fire Department train?

The Fire Department holds meetings the first three Thursdays of each month, and trains during one of those meetings.

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1. What is Monticello Bootcamp?

Monticello Bootcamp is an aggressive 5-week program that educates current and potential business owners on the important components of running a business. At the final week of the program, participants who are eligible to do so, may apply for a $5,000 grant to go towards rent and utilities of their start-up business.

2. Who can apply for the grant?

Great question! The quick answer is anyone interested in starting a "new" business. For a full list of eligibility requirements, check out the info under the "grant" portion of this page.

3. Is there a registration fee?

Participation is free, however in order to insure space and course materials, please make sure you register in advance.

4. What if I don't want to attend all classes?

You certainly do not have to attend all the classes, if for instance, you are interested in learning more about one particular subject. Just keep in mind that in order to be eligible for the grant, you must meet all requirements, including attending all classes.

5. What is a program mentor?

A program mentor is an experienced individual who will walk alongside and meet regularly with the grant recipient to aid in preparation and operations upon opening the business. The purpose of the mentor requirement is to make sure things are being addressed by the new business owner, help review financials, as well as be a guide. Mentors are there to help be an advocate in the process.

6. I've just registered for Bootcamp, now what?

So you've submitted your registration, great! You will be receiving (by email, unless otherwise specified,) a template for your Business Plan. Now it's time to be thinking about your business. Will you be opening a retail store that is one of the pre-identified needs? How are you funding the business? Who will be working with you? Business plans are the time to get the nuts and bolts figured out, and we recommend you do that before the class. Once you get the skeleton of the plan, we will help you put the meat on it!

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1. How do I rent a City facility?

Pavilions are available for private use on a first-come first-served basis. The MFAC is available for private rental during seasonal hours, and you must contact the MFAC office to reserve your space. Facility Rentals.

2. I want to help MPRD! What can I do?

We love our volunteers! Coach (head or assistant), help out at a community event, organize a park improvement day... the possibilities are endless! Contact our MPRD director to further discuss the opportunities!

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1. Can I change the zoning or primary use of my property?

Zoning changes or conditional use requests must go before the Planning Commission for a public hearing. The Planning Commission makes a recommendation to the City Council who has the final say. Before you get to far in your plans, contact the CIty to discuss the process and compliance issues. Planning Board.

2. What are setbacks?

The term setback means the required distance separating a building or structure from a property line. Setback regulations for buildings are included in the Zoning Ordinance and vary depending on what zoning designation a parcel is in. Visit the Building Inspector's page for a more complete description of setbacks. Title 18.

3. What businesses can I operate on my property?

First, determine what zoning designation your property is. Then, you must view the use chart in the zoning ordinance to discover compliance. If your property is primarily used as a residence, there are regulations regarding home occupations that you must abide by. Contact the zoning administrator 217.762.2583 for more information. Zoning Location.