Home > Hvac > Illinois > Will County > Aurora

Aurora, Illinois HVAC Local Permit Ordinances and Codes

Aurora, Illinois HVAC Permit Ordinances

The City of Aurora's Division of Building and Permits is the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for HVAC permit ordinances. This division is responsible for the administration and enforcement of the Aurora Building Code, adopted model codes, and local ordinances to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of the city's citizens and businesses.

Permits are generally required for various types of work, including structural changes, new construction, additions, interior remodels, and specific exterior work on historic properties or in the Foxwalk District. Mechanical work, such as HVAC, may require a permit.

Zoning and Fee Nuances

While specific zoning nuances directly tied to HVAC permits are not detailed in the provided information, it's important to note that zoning ordinances do exist and may impact projects. For instance, zoning requirements regarding green space percentages on a property are mentioned, and inquiries about such matters should be directed to the Zoning Department.

Regarding fees, Aurora has a structured permit fee schedule that is subject to annual adjustments. The fees are based on the type of permit and the valuation of the work. For HVAC-related permits, which fall under mechanical work, specific fees would be detailed in the "Permit Fee Schedule" or the "2024 Building and Permit Fees" document. These schedules outline application fees, permit inspection fees (PIF), and plan review fees (PRF).

It is important to be aware that delinquent or past-due balances owed to the City of Aurora can delay permit issuance.

Resources to Learn More

Because Aurora is located within Will County, the following broader county regulations may also apply to your project:

Illinois, Will County Hvac Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas

Will County HVAC Permit Requirements

In Will County, Illinois, a permit is generally required for the installation of any mechanical work, including HVAC systems. This applies to properties within the county's jurisdiction, including those in unincorporated areas. There are a few exceptions, such as for portable equipment, minor repairs, self-contained refrigeration systems, range hoods, or ductwork less than 30 feet in length. All mechanical contractors performing HVAC work must be licensed according to the Illinois Municipal Code.

For properties in unincorporated areas of Will County, the county's adopted building codes must be followed.

The Will County Land Use Department, specifically the Building Division, is responsible for administering and enforcing these codes. They utilize a cloud-based permitting system for applications, document submissions, inspection scheduling, and fee payments.

Key regulations and requirements include:

Resources to Learn More

The following statewide building codes and regulations apply universally to all jurisdictions within Illinois:

Illinois Hvac Legislation, Codes, and Guidelines

State-Level Building Codes and Legislation for HVAC in Illinois

In Illinois, the regulatory landscape for building codes, including HVAC requirements, has historically been decentralized, with local units of government (cities and counties) having the authority to adopt and enforce their own building codes. However, this is transitioning toward a more standardized statewide framework.

The most significant statewide mandate regarding HVAC systems is the Illinois Energy Conservation Code. Under the Energy Efficient Building Act (20 ILCS 3125), the state is required to adopt the latest published edition of the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), typically with specific Illinois amendments. As of recent updates, Illinois has adopted the 2021 IECC. This code establishes mandatory minimum efficiency standards for HVAC equipment, ductwork, and system design for both new construction and major renovations in residential and commercial buildings.

Regarding general mechanical and structural codes (such as the International Mechanical Code or International Residential Code), Illinois has historically allowed local jurisdictions to choose their own standards. However, legislation (Public Act 103-0510) has been enacted to implement a statewide building code effective January 1, 2025. Under this new framework, local codes must regulate structural design in a manner at least as stringent as the International Building Code (IBC) for new commercial buildings or the International Residential Code (IRC) for residential buildings.

It is important to note that Illinois does not issue a statewide license for HVAC contractors or technicians. Licensing, permitting, and inspection requirements are handled entirely at the local municipal or county level. Professionals must verify the specific requirements of the jurisdiction where the work is being performed.

Primary State Agencies

Resources to Learn More

Help Us Improve This Guide

Did you find a dead link, or do you have the direct link to the Aurora permit application portal? Help us keep this information accurate by submitting an update.