Building Permits

A Homeowner's Affidavit is required by the Village of Winthrop Harbor when a homeowner chooses to perform construction work on their own property instead of hiring a licensed contractor. By signing this affidavit, the homeowner confirms they are the legal property owner and accept full responsibility for the work, including compliance with all Village building codes, zoning regulations, and inspections.

This requirement ensures that the homeowner understands they are acting in place of a licensed contractor and assumes all liability for the quality and safety of the project. It protects both the Village and the property owner by making sure the work is properly authorized, inspected, and completed to the same standards expected of a contractor.

To protect public safety and ensure quality construction, all contractors and subcontractors must be registered with the Village of Winthrop Harbor before they can be issued a Building Permit or listed on one.

A contractor's letter of intent for a building permit is a formal document submitted by the licensed contractor hired to complete work on a construction project. This letter confirms that the contractor is responsible for the specific scope of work outlined in the permit application and provides assurance to the municipality that the work will be completed by a qualified professional.

The letter typically includes the contractor's business name, license number, and signature, and serves as an official record that ties the contractor to the project. This process helps prevent unlicensed or unqualified individuals from pulling permits and provides the community with confidence that construction work is performed safely and according to regulations.

To begin the permitting process, please complete and submit the Village of Winthrop Harbor Building Permit Application. You may download a fillable PDF copy or complete the application directly through our online permitting portal.

Once completed, applications and supporting documents may be submitted electronically through the portal or delivered in person to Village Hall. Please ensure all required information and attachments (plans, insurance certificates, contractor registrations, etc.) are included to avoid delays.

Please note that larger projects may still require the submission of three (3) stamped copies of building plans delivered in person at Village Hall or mailed to the Community Development Department before the application can be considered complete.

Building projects in the Village of Winthrop Harbor that involve a private well or septic system also need approval from the Lake County Health Department. This includes installing, repairing, altering, or abandoning a well or septic system, as well as additions or other construction on a property served by a well or septic system.

Please contact the Health Department before starting work, since its approval may be required before the Village can issue a building permit.

Certain projects in Winthrop Harbor fall under the jurisdiction of the Lake County Stormwater Management Commission (SMC). Depending on the scope and location of your project, you may be required to obtain a separate stormwater permit through their office.

Projects that commonly require SMC review include: new construction or additions disturbing more than 5,000 sq ft of land; grading, filling, or excavation that alters drainage patterns; construction near wetlands or floodplains; and installation of storm sewers or detention ponds.

We understand that navigating the building permit process can sometimes feel overwhelming. If you have any questions, need clarification, or want to confirm whether your project requires a permit, please don't hesitate to reach out.

To help us serve you more quickly, please include details such as the type of project, the property address, any drawings or documents you already have, and specific concerns (e.g., zoning setbacks, required inspections, contractor requirements). Please allow 24 to 48 hours for a response, not including weekends.

The Village of Winthrop Harbor offers the option to schedule an appointment with the Community Development Department. You may choose from a phone call, an in-person meeting, or a virtual meeting.

Appointments are available throughout the week, with preferred scheduling times Monday through Thursday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. While walk-ins are always welcome, scheduling a meeting helps minimize waiting times and ensures staff are available to address your specific needs.

Before beginning any excavation or construction project, you are required to contact 811 to have underground utilities properly located and marked. This free service helps prevent damage to gas, electric, water, sewer, and telecommunications lines, protecting both your safety and the integrity of the community's infrastructure.

By calling 811 at least a few business days before you dig, you ensure compliance with state law, avoid costly repairs, and safeguard workers and the public. Always remember — call before you dig, it's the law and it could save lives.