FAQs • Monticello, IL • CivicEngage

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.

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Building Inspection

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.