When am I required to hire a design professional (Architect, Professional Engineer or Structural Engineer)?

Detached single family dwellings and two family dwellings of wood frame construction not more than two stories plus a basement in height are not required to have construction documents prepared by a design professional. New construction (including additions) for all other types of structures are required by State law to have construction documents prepared, sealed, signed and dated by an Illinois licensed design professional. Alterations and change of use/occupancy in other than 1 and 2 family dwelling projects that result in a life safety or structural change are required by State law to have construction documents prepared, sealed, signed and dated by an Illinois licensed design professional.

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1. Why do I need a permit?
2. How deep must frost footings be?
3. What is the design ground snow load in Rockford?
4. How many layers of roofing can I have on the roof?
5. Why do I need to submit construction documents (drawings, calculations, specifications)?
6. When am I required to hire a design professional (Architect, Professional Engineer or Structural Engineer)?
7. Where do codes come from?
8. What type of work is exempt from a building permit?
9. Can a homeowner install plumbing work in their home?
10. Can a homeowner install mechanical work in their home?
11. Why do I need to submit construction documents (drawings, calculations, specifications)?
12. What happens if I do not obtain a permit?
13. What type of work is exempt from a plumbing permit?
14. What type of work is exempt from a mechanical permit?
15. How do I become a registered electrician?
16. Can a homeowner install electrical work in their home?
17. What type of work is exempt from an electrical permit?
18. Can I file a complaint about repairs that my landlord will not respond to?
19. Can a complaint be filed about deteriorated houses and/or buildings?
20. Is my complaint confidential?
21. What happens after I file a complaint?
22. What can be done about abandoned/vacant houses with broken windows or doors?
23. What is my property zoned as?
24. Can I establish a business in a single-family home located in a residential area?
25. If I am replacing an existing fence, do I need a fence permit?