Boiler Installation Permit & DOB Periodic Boiler Inspection: Chicago restaurant guide
Chicago Department of Buildings — Boiler Inspection Bureau
What it is
Boilers and unfired pressure vessels in commercial buildings are installed under a DOB permit and then inspected periodically by city boiler inspectors; repairs must be done by a City-licensed Boiler Repairer.
When a restaurant needs it
If you install or replace a boiler or a large pressure vessel (a large water heater also needs the CDPH air permit at 200,000 BTU/h or more).
How to apply
Your engineer includes the boiler in the building permit drawings (mechanical/plumbing review) and CDPH Form FB; after installation, call the Boiler Inspection Bureau (312-743-7284) to schedule the inspection.
Documents you’ll need
- Boiler specifications and ASME data
- Mechanical drawings in the building permit
- CDPH Form FB
Good to know
Most small restaurants use a commercial water heater under 200,000 BTU/h, which needs no CDPH air permit; ask your engineer which category you're in.
Official source
DOB — Boiler inspections · CDPH — air permit for boilers (Form FB)
Answer a few questions about your space and get every permit in order, with a timeline, a cost range, walkthroughs, and every application filled in for you to sign with Open.
Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.