Permit Guidelines
To obtain a permit, the applicant shall first seek zoning approval, if required, and submit a signed application for a permit on the form provided. The applicant must identify on the application the scope of work being conducted.

The application must indicate the use or occupancy for which the work is intended.

Two sets of plans, diagrams, or other data as required by the Uniform Building Code and must be submitted to the Inspection Division.

The valuation of work covered for costs associated with the construction work performed must be indicated. Payment of permit fee must be submitted in accordance with the City of Rock Island Fee Schedule.

Required inspections are identified on the reverse side of the permit card. Permits are valid for 180 days, provided that work is started within 30 days of the issuance. The Building Official may extend a permit for an additional 180 days, pending a written request from the permit holder.

Buildings requiring a Certificate of Occupancy may not be occupied until a certificate has been issued by the Building Official.

Work Exempt From a Permit

• One story accessory buildings not over 120 square feet in floor area.
• Fences not over 6 feet in height with zoning approval.
• Oil derricks
• Movable cases, counters and partitions not over 5 feet 9 inches in height.
• Retaining walls that are not over 4 feet in height, measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall.
• Water tanks supported directly on the ground and not over 5,000 gallon capacity.
• Platforms, walks, and driveways not more than 30 inches above grade, and not over any basement or story below.
• Painting, papering, and similar finish work.
• Temporary motion picture, television, and theater stage sets and scenery.
• Window awnings supported by an exterior wall of a residence and does not project out more than 54 inches.
• Prefabricated swimming pools not exceeding 5,000 gallons.

Mechanical Permits
The Inspection Division is responsible for the regulation and inspection of any design, construction, installation, quality of materials, location, operation and maintenance or use of heating, ventilating, cooling, refrigeration systems, incinerators, and other miscellaneous heat-producing appliances. The requirements pertain to both residential and commercial structures. All individuals shall first obtain a mechanical permit prior to conducting mechanical work. It shall be unlawful for any person to engage in the business of "mechanical contractor" without having registered as such per Section 4-4 of the City of Rock Island Code of Ordinances. Owner occupants of single family dwellings may obtain permits and install their own mechanical systems.

Click here for a 2009 Mechanical fees schedule.