Improvement Location Permits

An Improvement Location Permit (ILP) is an official approval issued by the DeKalb County Department of Development Services that authorizes property owners to construct, install, or place improvements on a parcel of land within DeKalb County.

An ILP ensures that proposed projects — such as new homes, additions, garages, pole barns, fences, decks, swimming pools, and commercial & industrial structures — comply with local zoning ordinances, setback requirements, floodplain regulations, and other county development standards before construction begins.

This permit process helps:

  • Verify that structures are placed in the correct location on the property
  • Protect neighboring properties and property values
  • Ensure safe and orderly community development
  • Confirm compliance with zoning and land-use regulations

Property owners must obtain an Improvement Location Permit before starting construction or placing a structure on their property. Failure to secure an ILP prior to beginning work may result in penalties, stop-work orders, or required modifications.

For questions about whether your project requires an ILP, contact the DeKalb County Department of Development Services before starting work.

DeKalb County issues Improvement Location Permits (ILP) in the unincorporated parts of the County as well as the Towns of Corunna & Spencerville.

Exemptions - An Improvement Location Permit is not needed for the following:

  • Ground Level Patios (make sure there is no intent to build a structure on or over)
  • Painting
  • Paneling or New Siding
  • Gutter and Downspout Replacement
  • Insulation
  • Window or Door Replacement of a like size
  • Storm Windows or Storm Doors
  • Roofing Replacement
  • Chimney Replacement
  • Cosmetic or Aesthetic Improvements
  • Chain Link or Wire Fences (that do not provide a visual barrier)
  • Fence less than or equal to 4.5 feet tall
  • Street
  • Sidewalk
  • Driveway (does require a permit from the Highway Dept.)

Fee Schedule (Simplified -Visit or call for all fees or additional information)

Structures 300 square feet or less
(including additions to existing structures)
$30.00
Structures larger than 300 square feet
(including additions to existing structures)
$50.00
Commercial Structures
$.02 per square foot.  Minimum $75.00 fee / Maximum $250.00 fee
Industrial Structures
$.02 per square foot.  Minimum $100.00 fee / Maximum $500.00 fee
Residential/Private Accessory Solar Energy System
$50.00
Fence/Retaining Wall
$50.00
Ponds
(Including Detention, Retention or Recreation)
$150.00
Zoning Affidavit/Conformance Letters
$25.00
All Other Permits
(i.e. signs, in ground or above ground pools, etc.)
$50.00