Do I need a permit to build a deck in Aurora, IL?

Yes. Aurora requires a building permit for any deck that is attached to the home or that is 30 inches or more above grade. Your permit application must include a site plan showing the deck's dimensions, its distance from all property lines, and the location of the existing house on the lot. The site plan must be drawn to scale and include a north arrow. Freestanding ground-level patios made of pavers may not require a permit, but if they add significant impervious surface to your lot, you should confirm with Aurora's Building and Permit Services office at (630) 256-3040 before starting work. Building a deck without a permit can result in stop-work orders and fines.

How long does it take to get a building permit approved in Aurora, Illinois?

For straightforward residential projects like decks, sheds, and fences, Aurora's plan review process typically takes 5 to 15 business days after a complete application is submitted. More complex projects, such as room additions, detached garages, or accessory dwelling units, can take 3 to 6 weeks, especially if they require review by multiple departments. Projects located in Aurora's historic districts or within the Fox River floodplain may take additional time because they require specialized review. Submitting a complete, accurate application with a properly prepared site plan from the start is the most reliable way to avoid correction cycles that extend your timeline significantly.

What needs to be on a site plan for a permit in Aurora, IL?

Aurora's Building and Permit Services requires a site plan that shows the full lot boundary with dimensions, the location and footprint of all existing structures on the property, the proposed new structure or addition with its dimensions, measured setback distances from the proposed work to all property lines, any recorded easements on the lot, a north arrow, and the drawing scale. For projects that add impervious surface, such as patios, driveways, or large sheds, you must also include a calculation of existing and proposed impervious surface coverage. Properties in the Fox River floodplain must additionally show the Base Flood Elevation and finished floor elevations.

Can I draw my own site plan in Aurora, or do I need a licensed surveyor?

For most standard residential permits in Aurora, including decks, sheds, fences, pools, and smaller additions, you are not required to hire a licensed land surveyor or architect to prepare your site plan. You can create your own site plan using your property's recorded plat of survey as a reference for lot dimensions and easements. The site plan must be drawn to scale and include all required elements. Online tools like Site Plan Creator are designed specifically for this purpose and can help homeowners produce professional-quality, code-compliant site plans. For complex projects, large additions, or ADUs, Aurora may require drawings stamped by a licensed design professional.

What are the setback requirements for a shed or accessory structure in Aurora, IL?

In most single-family residential zones in Aurora, detached accessory structures such as sheds and detached garages must maintain a minimum 5-foot setback from side and rear property lines, though some districts require more. Accessory structures cannot be placed in the front yard or in most cases in the required front setback area. Corner lots have additional setback requirements along the street-facing side yard. The maximum size and height of accessory structures is also regulated. Because setback rules vary by zoning district, you should verify the exact requirements for your parcel using Aurora's zoning map or by contacting Building and Permit Services before finalizing your site plan.

What happens if I build without a permit in Aurora, Illinois?

Building without a required permit in Aurora can have serious consequences. If the city discovers unpermitted work, it can issue a stop-work order requiring all construction to halt immediately. You may be required to obtain an after-the-fact permit, which typically involves additional fees and, in some cases, opening up finished work so inspectors can verify code compliance. Unpermitted structures can also complicate home sales, because buyers' inspectors and lenders may flag them, and title companies may require resolution before closing. In some situations, the city can require unpermitted structures to be removed entirely. The cost of compliance after the fact almost always exceeds the original permit fee.

Does Aurora, IL allow accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and what does the site plan need to show?

Aurora has adopted provisions permitting accessory dwelling units in certain residential zoning districts, reflecting broader Illinois and suburban trends toward increased housing flexibility. If your property qualifies, your permit application must include a detailed site plan showing the footprint of both the primary dwelling and the proposed ADU, all setback distances from property lines, required parking spaces for both units, and any utility connections. ADUs in Aurora are subject to size limits, owner-occupancy requirements in some zones, and design standards. Because ADU regulations can be complex and are subject to updates, it is strongly recommended to consult Aurora's Building and Permit Services office early in your planning process.

How much does a building permit cost in Aurora, IL?

Aurora's building permit fees are calculated based on the estimated construction value of your project. For smaller projects like sheds or fences, fees may range from roughly $50 to $150. Decks and pools typically fall in the $100 to $300 range. Room additions and detached garages, with higher construction values, can generate permit fees of $300 to $800 or more. Plan review fees may be assessed separately. Fee schedules are updated periodically, so you should confirm current fees with Aurora's Building and Permit Services office or through the city's online permit portal at the time you apply. Site plan preparation is a separate cost you handle before submitting.

My Aurora property is near the Fox River. Does that affect my permit application?

Yes, significantly. Properties near the Fox River and its tributaries in Aurora may fall within FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs), commonly called the 100-year floodplain. If your lot is in a floodplain, your site plan and permit application must include additional information, including the Base Flood Elevation (BFE) from the applicable FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM), proposed finished floor elevations, and documentation of any floodproofing measures. Some projects in the floodplain may require an Elevation Certificate prepared by a licensed surveyor. You can check your property's flood zone status at the FEMA Flood Map Service Center. Floodplain projects also receive additional review time.

Where do I submit my permit application and site plan in Aurora, Illinois?

Aurora has transitioned to an online permitting system that allows homeowners and contractors to submit permit applications, upload site plans and supporting documents, pay fees, and track review status electronically. You can access the portal through the City of Aurora's official website under Building and Permit Services. In-person submissions and inquiries are handled at the Building and Permit Services office at 44 E. Downer Place in downtown Aurora. The office can be reached by phone at (630) 256-3040. For projects requiring Historic Preservation Commission review or floodplain administrator sign-off, additional coordination with those departments is needed before or alongside your permit submission.

Site Plan Requirements in Aurora, IL (Permit Guide)

By Site Plan Creator Team • May 28, 2026

Aurora, Illinois requires a site plan for most residential building permits, from decks and sheds to additions and ADUs. This guide covers Aurora's permit triggers, setback rules, submission process, and how Site Plan Creator can help you get approved faster.

Site plan requirements for residential properties in Aurora, Illinois

Residential Site Plans and Building Permits in Aurora, Illinois

Aurora is Illinois's second-largest city, straddling Kane and DuPage counties along the Fox River. With a diverse mix of historic bungalows, mid-century ranches, and newer suburban subdivisions, the city's building department sees a wide range of residential permit applications every year. Whether you're planning a backyard deck in the Orchard Road corridor, adding a garage in the Old West End Historic District, or installing a swimming pool in a newer Fox Valley subdivision, Aurora's Building and Permit Services division will almost certainly require a site plan before your project can move forward. Understanding what Aurora expects on that document, and how to prepare it correctly, can save you weeks of back-and-forth with plan reviewers.

What Is a Residential Site Plan and Why Does Aurora Require One?

A residential site plan is a scaled, bird's-eye drawing of your property showing the lot boundaries, existing structures, proposed construction, setback distances, easements, and other key features. Aurora requires site plans because they allow plan reviewers to verify that your project complies with the city's Unified Development Ordinance (UDO), the adopted International Building Code (IBC), and any applicable floodplain regulations before a single shovel hits the ground.

Without an accurate site plan, reviewers cannot confirm that a proposed deck stays outside required setbacks, that a new shed won't encroach on a utility easement, or that an addition won't push impervious surface coverage beyond allowable limits. The site plan is the foundation of every residential permit review in Aurora.

Residential Projects That Typically Require a Permit in Aurora

Aurora's Building and Permit Services office requires permits, and almost always a site plan, for the following common residential projects:

Decks and patios: Any attached or freestanding deck over 30 inches above grade requires a permit. Even lower decks attached to the house typically require one.
Detached sheds and accessory structures: Sheds larger than 70 square feet require a permit. Smaller sheds may still require zoning approval depending on placement.
Swimming pools: Both in-ground and above-ground pools over 24 inches deep require a permit, a site plan, and often a barrier/fence inspection.
Fences: Fences in Aurora require a zoning permit. Height limits and placement rules vary by zoning district and lot position.
Room additions and home expansions: Any addition to the footprint of a home requires a full building permit with an accompanying site plan.
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs): Aurora has adopted provisions allowing ADUs in certain residential zones. A detailed site plan showing the primary dwelling, ADU footprint, parking, and setbacks is required.
Driveways and curb cuts: New driveways or widened driveways may require a permit, particularly where they involve a new curb cut on a public street.
Detached garages: New detached garages require a building permit and site plan showing setbacks from property lines and the primary structure.

Aurora Zoning Quirks and Local Considerations

Aurora's zoning landscape has several features that can catch homeowners off guard.

Dual-county jurisdiction: Because Aurora spans both Kane County and DuPage County, properties near the county line may face slightly different utility service areas and, in some cases, different floodplain map panels. Always confirm which county your parcel falls in before beginning your application.

Historic districts: Aurora's Old West End, East Side, and several other neighborhoods are locally designated historic districts. Projects in these areas may require a Certificate of Appropriateness from the Aurora Historic Preservation Commission in addition to a standard building permit. Design standards in historic districts affect materials, massing, and placement.

Fox River floodplain: Properties near the Fox River and its tributaries may fall within FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs). If your lot is in a floodplain, your site plan must show the Base Flood Elevation (BFE), finished floor elevations, and any required floodproofing measures. Check your property's flood zone status at the FEMA Flood Map Service Center.

Impervious surface limits: Aurora's UDO limits the total impervious surface on residential lots to manage stormwater runoff. Adding a patio, driveway, or large shed can push a property over its allowable impervious coverage. Your site plan must calculate and clearly show existing and proposed impervious surface percentages.

HOA covenants: Many Aurora subdivisions, particularly in the Fox Valley area, have active homeowners associations with their own design review requirements. HOA approval does not replace city permits, and city permits do not override HOA restrictions. You may need both.

Typical Setback Requirements in Aurora

Setbacks in Aurora vary by zoning district, but the following ranges are typical for single-family residential (R-1 through R-3) zones:

Front yard setback: 25 to 30 feet from the front property line (or matching the established neighborhood setback line)
Side yard setback: 5 to 10 feet per side for the primary structure; accessory structures may be allowed as close as 3 to 5 feet
Rear yard setback: 25 to 30 feet for primary structures; 5 feet is common for detached accessory structures
Corner lots: Additional street-side setbacks apply, often matching or approaching the front yard setback requirement

Always verify the exact setbacks for your specific zoning district using Aurora's official zoning map and UDO, or by contacting the Building and Permit Services office directly. Setbacks for ADUs, pools, and fences follow separate rules outlined in the UDO.

How to Submit a Permit Application in Aurora

Aurora has moved toward an online permit submission model through its permitting portal, which allows homeowners and contractors to upload documents, pay fees, and track review status electronically. Here is a general overview of the process:

Determine your project type and required documents. Contact Aurora's Building and Permit Services or review the city's permit checklist to confirm what drawings and supporting documents are needed.
Prepare your site plan. Your site plan must be drawn to scale, show all lot dimensions, existing structures, proposed work, setback distances, easements, and north arrow. Tools like Site Plan Creator make this step straightforward for homeowners.
Submit your application online. Upload your site plan, construction drawings, and any required supplemental forms through Aurora's online portal. Pay the applicable permit fee at submission.
Await plan review. Residential permit reviews in Aurora typically take 5 to 15 business days for straightforward projects. Complex additions, ADUs, or projects in historic districts or floodplains may take longer.
Respond to any correction comments. If a plan reviewer requests revisions, you will receive a correction notice. Address each item and resubmit promptly to avoid delays.
Receive your permit and schedule inspections. Once approved, download your permit, post it on-site, and schedule required inspections through the city's system at each phase of construction.

For code reference, Aurora adopts and amends the International Building Code as administered through the International Code Council.

Common Reasons Aurora Permit Applications Get Rejected

Plan reviewers in Aurora most often send applications back for the following reasons:

Missing or incorrect setback dimensions: The site plan does not clearly show measured distances from the proposed structure to all property lines.
No scale or incorrect scale: Drawings submitted without a stated scale, or where dimensions do not match the drawn scale, are routinely rejected.
Impervious surface not calculated: Applications for patios, driveways, or additions that do not include an impervious surface calculation are flagged immediately.
Easements not shown: Utility, drainage, or access easements recorded on the plat must appear on the site plan. Structures cannot encroach into easements.
Floodplain information missing: For properties in or near the Fox River floodplain, missing BFE data or elevation certificates will halt review.
Incomplete project description: Vague descriptions of the proposed work make it impossible for reviewers to apply the correct code sections.

Get Your Aurora Site Plan Right the First Time

Preparing an accurate, code-compliant site plan is the single most effective way to avoid delays in Aurora's permit process. Site Plan Creator is designed specifically for homeowners, contractors, and small builders who need professional-quality site plans without the cost of hiring a surveyor or architect for every project. Our easy-to-use tool guides you through every required element, from lot dimensions and setback lines to impervious surface calculations, so your application is ready for Aurora's plan reviewers from day one. Start your site plan today and move your Aurora project forward with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to build a deck in Aurora, IL?: Yes. Aurora requires a building permit for any deck that is attached to the home or that is 30 inches or more above grade. Your permit application must include a site plan showing the deck's dimensions, its distance from all property lines, and the location of the existing house on the lot. The site plan must be drawn to scale and include a north arrow. Freestanding ground-level patios made of pavers may not require a permit, but if they add significant impervious surface to your lot, you should confirm with Aurora's Building and Permit Services office at (630) 256-3040 before starting work. Building a deck without a permit can result in stop-work orders and fines.
How long does it take to get a building permit approved in Aurora, Illinois?: For straightforward residential projects like decks, sheds, and fences, Aurora's plan review process typically takes 5 to 15 business days after a complete application is submitted. More complex projects, such as room additions, detached garages, or accessory dwelling units, can take 3 to 6 weeks, especially if they require review by multiple departments. Projects located in Aurora's historic districts or within the Fox River floodplain may take additional time because they require specialized review. Submitting a complete, accurate application with a properly prepared site plan from the start is the most reliable way to avoid correction cycles that extend your timeline significantly.
What needs to be on a site plan for a permit in Aurora, IL?: Aurora's Building and Permit Services requires a site plan that shows the full lot boundary with dimensions, the location and footprint of all existing structures on the property, the proposed new structure or addition with its dimensions, measured setback distances from the proposed work to all property lines, any recorded easements on the lot, a north arrow, and the drawing scale. For projects that add impervious surface, such as patios, driveways, or large sheds, you must also include a calculation of existing and proposed impervious surface coverage. Properties in the Fox River floodplain must additionally show the Base Flood Elevation and finished floor elevations.
Can I draw my own site plan in Aurora, or do I need a licensed surveyor?: For most standard residential permits in Aurora, including decks, sheds, fences, pools, and smaller additions, you are not required to hire a licensed land surveyor or architect to prepare your site plan. You can create your own site plan using your property's recorded plat of survey as a reference for lot dimensions and easements. The site plan must be drawn to scale and include all required elements. Online tools like Site Plan Creator are designed specifically for this purpose and can help homeowners produce professional-quality, code-compliant site plans. For complex projects, large additions, or ADUs, Aurora may require drawings stamped by a licensed design professional.
What are the setback requirements for a shed or accessory structure in Aurora, IL?: In most single-family residential zones in Aurora, detached accessory structures such as sheds and detached garages must maintain a minimum 5-foot setback from side and rear property lines, though some districts require more. Accessory structures cannot be placed in the front yard or in most cases in the required front setback area. Corner lots have additional setback requirements along the street-facing side yard. The maximum size and height of accessory structures is also regulated. Because setback rules vary by zoning district, you should verify the exact requirements for your parcel using Aurora's zoning map or by contacting Building and Permit Services before finalizing your site plan.
What happens if I build without a permit in Aurora, Illinois?: Building without a required permit in Aurora can have serious consequences. If the city discovers unpermitted work, it can issue a stop-work order requiring all construction to halt immediately. You may be required to obtain an after-the-fact permit, which typically involves additional fees and, in some cases, opening up finished work so inspectors can verify code compliance. Unpermitted structures can also complicate home sales, because buyers' inspectors and lenders may flag them, and title companies may require resolution before closing. In some situations, the city can require unpermitted structures to be removed entirely. The cost of compliance after the fact almost always exceeds the original permit fee.
Does Aurora, IL allow accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and what does the site plan need to show?: Aurora has adopted provisions permitting accessory dwelling units in certain residential zoning districts, reflecting broader Illinois and suburban trends toward increased housing flexibility. If your property qualifies, your permit application must include a detailed site plan showing the footprint of both the primary dwelling and the proposed ADU, all setback distances from property lines, required parking spaces for both units, and any utility connections. ADUs in Aurora are subject to size limits, owner-occupancy requirements in some zones, and design standards. Because ADU regulations can be complex and are subject to updates, it is strongly recommended to consult Aurora's Building and Permit Services office early in your planning process.
How much does a building permit cost in Aurora, IL?: Aurora's building permit fees are calculated based on the estimated construction value of your project. For smaller projects like sheds or fences, fees may range from roughly $50 to $150. Decks and pools typically fall in the $100 to $300 range. Room additions and detached garages, with higher construction values, can generate permit fees of $300 to $800 or more. Plan review fees may be assessed separately. Fee schedules are updated periodically, so you should confirm current fees with Aurora's Building and Permit Services office or through the city's online permit portal at the time you apply. Site plan preparation is a separate cost you handle before submitting.
My Aurora property is near the Fox River. Does that affect my permit application?: Yes, significantly. Properties near the Fox River and its tributaries in Aurora may fall within FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs), commonly called the 100-year floodplain. If your lot is in a floodplain, your site plan and permit application must include additional information, including the Base Flood Elevation (BFE) from the applicable FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM), proposed finished floor elevations, and documentation of any floodproofing measures. Some projects in the floodplain may require an Elevation Certificate prepared by a licensed surveyor. You can check your property's flood zone status at the FEMA Flood Map Service Center. Floodplain projects also receive additional review time.
Where do I submit my permit application and site plan in Aurora, Illinois?: Aurora has transitioned to an online permitting system that allows homeowners and contractors to submit permit applications, upload site plans and supporting documents, pay fees, and track review status electronically. You can access the portal through the City of Aurora's official website under Building and Permit Services. In-person submissions and inquiries are handled at the Building and Permit Services office at 44 E. Downer Place in downtown Aurora. The office can be reached by phone at (630) 256-3040. For projects requiring Historic Preservation Commission review or floodplain administrator sign-off, additional coordination with those departments is needed before or alongside your permit submission.

How to Create a Site Plan in Aurora

Research Your Zoning and Requirements: Before drawing anything, identify your Aurora property's zoning district using the city's official zoning map and review the relevant sections of Aurora's Unified Development Ordinance. Confirm the setback requirements, maximum impervious surface coverage, and any overlay districts, such as historic district or floodplain, that apply to your lot. Contact Aurora's Building and Permit Services at (630) 256-3040 if you have questions about your specific parcel.
Gather Your Property Documents: Obtain a copy of your recorded plat of survey, which shows your lot's legal boundaries, dimensions, and any recorded easements. This document is the foundation of your site plan. If you do not have a copy, check with your title company, Kane or DuPage County Recorder's office, or the original closing documents from your home purchase. You will also need the dimensions of all existing structures on the property.
Create Your Site Plan: Using your plat of survey as a reference, draw a scaled site plan that shows your lot boundaries, all existing structures, the proposed project footprint, and measured setback distances from the proposed work to all property lines. Include easements, a north arrow, the drawing scale, and an impervious surface calculation if your project adds hard surfaces. Site Plan Creator simplifies this process with guided tools built for residential permit applications in cities like Aurora.
Submit Your Application Online: Access Aurora's online permitting portal through the city's official website. Create an account if you do not already have one, select the appropriate permit type, and upload your completed site plan along with any additional required documents such as construction drawings, product specifications, or an elevation certificate for floodplain properties. Pay the applicable permit fee at the time of submission to initiate plan review.
Respond to Reviewer Comments and Get Approved: After submission, Aurora's plan reviewers will evaluate your application, typically within 5 to 15 business days for standard residential projects. If corrections are needed, you will receive a detailed comment list. Revise your site plan or documents to address each item and resubmit through the portal. Once all departments approve your application, you will receive your permit, which you must post on-site before beginning construction.
Schedule and Pass Required Inspections: Aurora requires inspections at key stages of construction, such as footing, framing, electrical rough-in, and final completion. Schedule each inspection through the city's online portal or by calling Building and Permit Services. Make sure your approved permit and site plan are accessible on-site for each inspection visit. Do not cover or conceal any work before the relevant inspection is completed and approved. A final inspection sign-off closes out your permit.