Building Permit — Standard Plan Review (E-Plan): Chicago restaurant guide

Chicago Department of Buildings

What it is

The main permit for a restaurant build-out with architectural plans. One application covers zoning, architectural/fire, ventilation (hood), plumbing (grease interceptor), electrical and CDPH food protection reviews.

When a restaurant needs it

Any alteration, change of use or new construction beyond cosmetic work.

How to apply

Your licensed architect, structural engineer or licensed permit expediter starts the application in E-Plan's Dynamic Portal and uploads drawings to ProjectDox. A DOB project manager runs prescreen and technical reviews.

Documents you’ll need

Sealed architectural, MEP and kitchen equipment drawings
Zoning information
Licensed contractor information
Owner authorization

Fee

$300 building permit deposit plus a zoning review fee (based on square footage of new work; flat for renovation work) paid at application in E-Plan; the balance of the building permit fee is paid before the permit issues — varies by scope

Processing time

Varies by project; a restaurant typically needs 10 or more reviews

Renewal

Permit stays valid while work is active

Who files

Only an Illinois-licensed architect, structural engineer or City-licensed expediter can start an E-Plan application.

Good to know

Small eligible projects can use Self-Certification, where a registered architect takes code responsibility; permits are typically issued within 30 days of prescreen. The Express Permit Program covers only repairs and minor work.

Official source

DOB — Standard Plan Review · DOB — E-Plan online permits

Get your personalized Chicago permit plan

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.

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Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.