The Permit Process

Obtaining the Building Permit

Step 1: Fill out permit application

You can download a building permit application online by visiting our building permit types page, or from the Inspection Division office in City Hall, located on the second floor. Every permit must contain the following information:

  • A description of work that the permit will cover. 
  • The address that the work is being performed at - pin number or parcel number is an address has not yet been assigned. 
  • The use/occupancy of the building (Single Family, Multi-Family, Other Residential, Non-Residential)
  • Construction documents, as required. If you are unsure on whether or not your project requires construction documents please contact the Inspection Division. 
  • Job valuation of the work being performed. 
  • Signature of the applicant, or the authorized agent. 
  • Any additional Information that may be requested by the Building Official.

Homeowners may submit the permit application for properties that they currently own and occupy. Permit holders are responsible for making sure the work done meets the codes and ordinances adopted by the City of Rock Island. Contractors submitting permit applications must be registered with the city before a permit is issued.

Construction Plan Submission and Review Policy

Owner Occupant Exemption / Contractor Registration Policy

Step 2: Application and Plan Review

When the submitted drawings, specifications, and permit application have been received by the office assistant, plan review will begin by the Inspectors that are relevant to the submitted project. The review process takes an average of 14 days. It is important for the applicant to submit all required documents and plans as soon as possible before beginning work.

Step 3: Obtain Permit(s)

Once the plans and application have been approved, a permit will be issued. There are fees associated with permits to cover the cost of the review and inspection process. The permit must be posted in a visible place at the job site at all times.

Permits are valid for 180 days. The Building Official may extend a permit for an additional 180 days, pending a written request from the permit holder. Permit extension requests must be received before the current permit expires. 

Step 4: Inspections

Persons doing permitted work are expected to know when inspections are required. If there is any question on whether or not an inspection is needed, please contact the Inspection Division, or refer to the documents below. Necessary inspections may vary based on the scope of work being done. Inspections require 24 hours notice.

If the items needing inspection are covered without inspection, the permit holder will be required to expose these items through any means necessary, at the expense of the applicant. For a list of required inspections please view the Inspection Division handout:

Step 5: Construction is approved and Certificate of Occupancy is issued

The Building Official will provide a certificate of occupancy or other certificate when construction is complete and code compliance is determined. This certificate verifies that the project has been completed to code and to the City’s satisfaction. The structure may NOT be occupied until the occupancy permit has been issued.