Bolthole Index

Kankakee County, Illinois

Building permits, zoning and septic rules in Kankakee County, Illinois

36Index Score / 100
#93 of 102 in Illinois

Unincorporated Kankakee County, Illinois requires building permits for new and temporary buildings, additions, renovations, demolitions and utility hookups, issued by the county Building Division1. The county sets zoning in unincorporated areas only, while most cities and villages run their own23. Septic and private-well permits for the whole county come from the Kankakee County Health Department45.

At a glance

Building permit
Required for listed construction and building-system work in unincorporated areas1
Zoning
County-administered in unincorporated areas; most municipalities administer their own rules23
Septic
Kankakee County Health Department issues permits and inspects installations4
Owner-builder
A homeowner may do the work, but still needs the permit and applicable inspections6
Septic soils
Only about 2% of soils rate free of severe limits for a conventional drain field7
Private well
Kankakee County Health Department issues permits where public water is unavailable5
Permit fees
Variable, based on estimated project value including materials and labor8
Agricultural projects
Benefits are conditional; qualifying applications need form AG-001-179

Who to call

Building permits

Kankakee County Building Division (Planning Department)

Building permits, plan review, code enforcement, contractor registration, and floodplain management for unincorporated Kankakee County

815-936-5500

189 E. Court Street, Kankakee, IL 60901

Online permits →

Septic permits

Kankakee County Health Department, Environmental Health / Septic Program

Septic system construction permits, installation inspections, evaluation of existing systems, and dye testing for suspected failures in Kankakee County

815-802-9400

2390 W Station St, Kankakee, IL 60901

Roads & driveways

Kankakee County Highway Department

County road and highway maintenance for Kankakee County; a starting point for questions about access to a county-maintained road

815-933-1731

750 S East Avenue, Kankakee, IL 60901

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 9, 2026.

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Do you need a building permit in Kankakee County, Illinois?

Unincorporated Kankakee County, Illinois requires building permits for new and temporary buildings, additions, demolitions, renovations, prefabricated structures, electrical and plumbing systems, HVAC, water and sewer hookups, and other listed projects1. Kankakee County has adopted building regulations for the unincorporated area, and the Building Division enforces them1011. Permitted construction is inspected at appropriate stages for compliance with the code, permit and approved plans; the owner must request the inspections, generally at least 24 hours ahead, and a building permit is valid for 12 months with construction required to start within 6 months1213. Permit fees vary with the estimated value of materials and labor; contact a county code official for an estimate8. A homeowner may perform all work on the homeowner's own project without county contractor registration, but the permit, plans, code requirements and inspections still apply; owner-performed plumbing also requires a plumbing affidavit6.

Who is the Kankakee County building department, and how do you reach them?

The Kankakee County Building Division, within the Planning Department, handles permits and adopted building regulations for unincorporated Kankakee County110. Reach the division at 189 E. Court Street in Kankakee or by phone at 815-936-550011. Its online portal accepts permit applications and supporting documents and lets applicants check status1411. The county's published process calls for parcel and owner information, a project description, plot plan, cost estimate or signed contract, and a contractor list; some projects also need a floodplain survey, recorded deed or construction plans14. The review target is 10 working days, but scope and application volume can change the timing14.

Does Kankakee County have zoning?

Kankakee County administers zoning in unincorporated areas, while many incorporated municipalities administer their own zoning; Cabery, Irwin, Reddick and Union Hill are identified as exceptions governed by the county code23. Each county district has its own allowed and special uses and bulk requirements15. For lots created through subdivision, minimum depth, width and area depend on the applicable zoning district and subdivision rules16. Principal-structure setbacks also vary by district, and accessory structures must be at least 10 feet from the principal structure or 5 feet from an interior lot line17. In the RE rural estate district, for example, the minimum lot is 1 acre with 150 feet of width, buildings are limited to 35 feet or 2½ stories, and lot coverage is capped at 30 percent181920. Required RE setbacks are at least 50 feet front, 20 feet side and 50 feet rear21. Ask the Building Division to identify the parcel's current district and requirements rather than relying on a general county summary11.

How do septic permits work in Kankakee County?

The Kankakee County Health Department issues private-septic permits and inspects installations, while Illinois regulates private sewage-disposal systems statewide422. A sewage permit is required for a new installation and for any repair or modification, and plan approval typically takes 7 to 10 days, though that is not guaranteed23. Illinois requires plan approval before a new system is built and advance notice before construction, repair or modification24. Only about 2% of Kankakee County soils rate free of severe limits for a conventional drain field, so arrange the site evaluation before fixing the house location or purchase budget7. The same Health Department issues permits for private wells where public water is unavailable and inspects their installation; the county's 2023 fee schedule lists $260 for a well permit525. Reach Environmental Health at 815-802-9400 or 2390 W Station Street in Kankakee26.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Kankakee County?

We could not confirm a county rule that plainly allows or prohibits long-term RV occupancy, temporary camping or a site-built tiny home on private land. Ask the Building Division what the parcel's zoning district permits before buying or moving a unit there, because unincorporated Kankakee County has district-specific uses and bulk requirements21511. We also could not confirm a countywide minimum dwelling floor area. Illinois campground rules do not answer whether an owner may occupy one RV on private land27. A manufactured home still needs an Illinois-licensed installer, and state siting requirements apply28.

Building a home in Kankakee County, Illinois: the steps, in order

  1. Confirm whether the parcel is unincorporated and identify its zoning district; municipal zoning often differs from county zoning3.
  2. Verify district uses, lot dimensions and setbacks with the Building Division before fixing the site plan161711.
  3. Arrange septic evaluation and permitting, and obtain a county Health Department well permit if public water is unavailable45.
  4. Create a portal account and submit the building application with the required parcel, project, site-plan, cost and contractor information14.
  5. Confirm the fee estimate with a code official because fees depend on project value8.
  6. If acting as owner-builder, submit the same permit documents and any required plumbing affidavit; the exemption is from contractor registration, not permitting6.
  7. For an agricultural-purpose project on property principally used for agriculture, include form AG-001-17 to request the county's agricultural exemption benefits9.
  8. Resolve driveway spacing and floodplain approvals, then coordinate required construction inspections with county staff293012.

What to check before you buy land in Kankakee County, Illinois

Confirm jurisdiction and zoning before making an offer: Kankakee County regulates unincorporated parcels, while many municipalities use their own rules3. A land split creating parcels under 5 acres typically requires a subdivision plat; the minor-subdivision path is limited to no more than 5 lots and cannot involve new roads or extensions of municipal facilities31. A split into parcels over 5 acres does not require a subdivision plat, but each parcel still must meet zoning, road-frontage and driveway-spacing rules to qualify for a building permit, and a variance may be needed if it does not32. A qualifying owner may use the county's separate farmstead process to divide a farmstead from an agricultural parcel if all application criteria are met33. Test soils before assuming a conventional septic field will work; only about 2% rate free of severe limits7. Floodplain development can require county, state or federal review, so bring mapped-floodplain questions to the Building Division before siting improvements3011.

Watch-outs

  • Kankakee County lets a homeowner perform work on the homeowner's own project without contractor registration, but permits, plans, inspections and any required plumbing affidavit still apply6.
  • Most of Kankakee County's soils rate poorly for a standard septic drain field, so budget time and money for a site evaluation and possibly an engineered system before you commit to a lot7.
  • County driveway-spacing rules and possible floodplain approvals can affect where improvements fit on a parcel; resolve both before finalizing a site plan2930.
  • An agricultural use does not automatically remove every county requirement: the project and property must qualify, and form AG-001-17 must accompany the application to receive agricultural exemption benefits9.

Sources

  1. Guide to Obtaining a Building Permit, quoted and re-checked
  2. Kankakee County Developers Handbook, quoted and re-checked
  3. Kankakee County Developers Handbook, quoted and re-checked
  4. Septic Program, quoted and re-checked
  5. Application for Permit to Construct, Modify or Abandon a Water Well, quoted and re-checked
  6. House/Addition/Garage/Pole Building/Other Accessory Buildings Larger Than 200 Sq. Ft. Permit Application, quoted and re-checked
  7. Share of soils USDA rates "not limited" for a conventional septic drain field (SSURGO). A strict rating: the median county is about 6% and a tenth of counties are 0%, so a low figure means most lots need a site evaluation or an engineered system, not that septic is impossible. Cite it only with that caveat: Bolthole Index county data
  8. Guide to Obtaining a Building Permit, quoted and re-checked
  9. Demo Permit Application, quoted and re-checked
  10. Resolution 2014-02-11-18, quoted and re-checked
  11. Kankakee County Building Division (Planning Department) (planning.k3county.net)
  12. Guide to Obtaining a Building Permit, quoted and re-checked
  13. Guide to Obtaining a Building Permit, quoted and re-checked
  14. Building Permits, quoted and re-checked
  15. County of Kankakee Guide to Development, quoted and re-checked
  16. Kankakee County Code, Chapter 117 - Subdivisions, quoted and re-checked
  17. Frequently Asked Questions - Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  18. Sec. 121-148. Rural estate residence district (RE), quoted and re-checked
  19. Sec. 121-148. Rural estate residence district (RE), quoted and re-checked
  20. Sec. 121-148. Rural estate residence district (RE), quoted and re-checked
  21. Sec. 121-148. Rural estate residence district (RE), quoted and re-checked
  22. Private Sewage Disposal, quoted and re-checked
  23. Private Sewage Disposal Administrative Procedures and Application, quoted and re-checked
  24. 77 Ill. Adm. Code 905.190 Installation Approval (Illinois statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  25. Well Program - Kankakee County Health Department, quoted and re-checked
  26. Kankakee County Health Department, Environmental Health / Septic Program (kankakeehealth.org)
  27. Youth Camps and Campgrounds (Illinois statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  28. Manufactured & Modular Homes/Mobile Structures (Illinois statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  29. Subdivision, quoted and re-checked
  30. County of Kankakee Guide to Development, quoted and re-checked
  31. Subdivision, quoted and re-checked
  32. Subdivision, quoted and re-checked
  33. Zoning Division | Kankakee County, IL, quoted and re-checked

Written October 9, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Like all 6 of its neighbors, Kankakee County has countywide zoning.

RuleKankakee CountyWill CountyIroquois CountyFord CountyGrundy CountyKendall CountyLivingston County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredLimited
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsCounty Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Public Health Dept.County Public Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.

County locator

Kankakee County in Illinois

36
County map
Kankakee County highlighted among the Illinois counties · colored by Index score

How Kankakee County scores

Seclusion20100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency28100% ev.
Admin Boringness4390% ev.
Durability64100% ev.
Property Autonomy42100% ev.
Carry Cost62100% ev.

Evidence strength: 98%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$226kTypical home
2.2%Property tax
$6,734Land / acre
39.3"Annual rain
0.9% of yrsSevere drought
4.5 / yr (+4.2)Mid-century 100°F days
13.4 daysMid-century dry spell
1.79" (+7.9%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.73×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,498Home insurance / yr
2.2% / yrInsurance growth
0.9%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
78,300People within 30 min
10,372,749People within 2 hr
100,826Radius comparison (15 mi)
156.6People / sq mi
0%Federal land
99.2%Land at 15% slope or less
1.6%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
6,725 acWorkable land screen
8.8%Wooded land
49.9 tonsBiomass / forest ac
50.9°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Kankakee County

Inside a city or town, that city usually issues building permits and sets zoning; the county’s rules above cover unincorporated land. Septic, wells and floodplain rules usually stay with the county or state everywhere.

Not yet researched: Aroma Township · Village of Aroma Park · Village of Bonfield · Bourbonnais Township · Village of Chebanse · Essex Township · Village of Essex · Ganeer Township · Village of Hopkins Park · Village of Irwin · Kankakee · Kankakee Township · Limestone Township · Village of Limestone · Manteno Township · Momence · Norton Township · Otto Township · Pembroke Township · Pilot Township · Village of Reddick · Rockville Township · Salina Township · Village of Sammons Point · St. Anne Township · Sumner Township · Village of Sun River Terrace · Village of Union Hill · Yellowhead Township

Answers from the rulebook for Kankakee County

What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.

Kankakee County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction and related work regulated by the Kankakee County Planning Department Building Division in unincorporated Kankakee County.

    • The county guide lists new buildings, temporary buildings, additions, demolitions, renovations, prefabricated structures, electrical and plumbing systems, HVAC, water and sewer hookups, miscellaneous residential work such as sheds, pools, fences, roofs, siding, windows, decks and fireplaces, and miscellaneous commercial uses such as parking, signs, elevators, health and food handling.
    • Permit fees are based on the estimated value of the project, including material and labor; the guide directs applicants to contact a Code Official for an estimate.
    • Building permits are valid for twelve months and construction must commence within six months of issuance.
    • Required submittal information includes the tax identification number, property owner's name and contact information, work description, plot plan, cost estimate or signed contract, county-licensed contractor list, and generally two complete sets of construction plans; the guide states that some items may not be required depending on project scope.

    permit validity: 12 months · construction commencement deadline: <= 6 months after permit issuance

    “What projects require a building permit? • New Buildings • Temporary Buildings • Additions • Demolitions • Renovations • Prefabricated Structures • Electrical & Plumbing Systems • HVAC ( heating, ventilating and air conditioning) • Water & Sewer Hookups”
  • Owner-builder exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    An owner performing construction work on the owner's project under the County's house/addition/garage/pole-building/other-accessory-building permit process.

    • The owner must still obtain the applicable building permit and submit the required application materials.
    • If the owner performs plumbing work, the County requires a plumbing affidavit.
    • Applicable project requirements remain in force, including plans, plot plan, code compliance, septic or sewer referrals, and other listed documents.
    • Contractor registration requirements apply to contractors performing work involving a building permit; the form expressly allows the homeowner to perform all work.
    “Fill out the contractor list for each applicable contractor in your project. All contractors must be registered and current with all certificates. Home owner may do all the work on their project.”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Kankakee County building-code adoption and administration, primarily for unincorporated areas under the County Planning Department.

    • The County Board adopted a building code on June 1, 1959, as amended.
    • Chapter 105 is identified as Buildings and Building Regulations of the County Code.
    • The County Building Division adopts and enforces codes, standards, and ordinances.
    • The County's contractor-registration page states that contractors performing work involving a building permit in unincorporated Kankakee County must register before the permit will be issued.
    • A February 11, 2014 resolution approved a $25 administrative fee for each residential and non-residential construction permit at application, except agriculture-related permits; the fee start date was April 1, 2014.
    • Municipal building-code requirements may differ and are not established by this county claim.

    building code adoption date: 1959-06-01 (as amended) · administrative fee: 25 USD (Agriculture-related permits are exempt) · administrative fee effective date: 2014-04-01

    “This Guide pertains to development in unincorporated Kankakee County. [...] Building Codes have been adopted by the County to ensure the health, safety and welfare of all County residents.”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Construction projects subject to the Kankakee County Planning Department Building Division's building-permit process.

    • Inspections occur at various stages of construction and the listed stages are a sample; applicants must coordinate with staff regarding the particular project.
    • The owner is responsible for ensuring inspections are requested.
    • At least 24 hours advance notice is requested.
    • Twenty-four hours notice does not guarantee inspection the following day.
    • Inspections are granted on a first-come, first-served basis.
    • No concrete may be poured before inspections, except driveways and sidewalks.
    • Building permits are valid for 12 months, and construction must commence within 6 months of permit issuance.
    • The source does not state whether incorporated municipalities use the county inspection program; municipal building rules may apply separately.

    advance inspection notice: >= 24 hours (Notice does not guarantee inspection the following day.) · building permit validity: 12 months · required construction commencement: <= 6 months after permit issuance

    “Inspections are performed by the Code Official at various stages throughout the construction process to ensure that the work conforms to the Code, the building permit, and the approved plans. The following is a sample of inspections that need to be completed. Please coordinate with Staff on your particular project.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Permitted construction regulated by the Kankakee County Planning Department Building Division in unincorporated Kankakee County.
      “Inspections are performed by the Code Official at various stages throughout the construction process to ensure that the work conforms to the Code, the building permit, and the approved plans.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Kankakee County zoning in unincorporated areas.

    • The Kankakee County Planning Department administers the zoning for unincorporated areas.
    • The ordinance was first adopted on March 21, 1967 and has been amended over time.
    • The county developers handbook states that the current ordinance should be consulted through the County Code or Planning Department because the handbook may not be immediately revised.
    • The County Zoning Division page states that the current online ordinance includes amendments through August 12, 2008; the page also lists later amendment history, including amendments adopted through November 8, 2011.
    • Zoning applications may involve map amendments, special-use permits, variances, or farmstead exemptions.

    original zoning ordinance adoption date: 1967-03-21 · current zoning ordinance date stated in handbook: 1996-05-14

    “The Kankakee County Planning Department administers the zoning for the unincorporated areas of the County.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Aggregate local zoning across unincorporated Kankakee County and incorporated municipalities.

    • The county administers zoning for unincorporated areas.
    • Many municipalities administer their own zoning ordinances, so municipal rules must be checked with the relevant municipality.
    • The county handbook states that the County cannot provide zoning information for properties within municipalities except in Cabery, Irwin, Reddick, and Union Hill.
    • The handbook states that Cabery, Irwin, Reddick, and Union Hill do not have their own zoning ordinance and are governed by the County's code.
    “Many municipalities in Kankakee County have adopted and administer their own zoning ordinances. For zoning information within a municipality please contact the necessary municipality. The County cannot provide zoning information or answer zoning questions for properties within municipalities except in the Villages of Cabery, Irwin, Reddick, and Union Hill.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)

    County zoning districts governing unincorporated Kankakee County; incorporated municipalities may have their own zoning rules or, as stated in the guide, may be governed by the County code.

    • The county guide states that its overview is not a comprehensive listing of all uses and zoning requirements.
    • Each district has permitted and special uses and bulk requirements.
    • The guide lists A1 Agriculture, A2 Agricultural Estate, R1 Single-Family Residential, R2 High Density Residential, RE Rural Estate Residence, C1 Restricted Commercial, C2 General Commercial, I1 Restricted Industrial, I2 General Industrial, PL Public Lands, and PUD Planned Unit Development.
    • The source text says there are 10 districts while listing 11 district labels; this discrepancy is preserved rather than resolved.

    district count stated by source: 10 districts (The source's list contains 11 labels including PUD.)

    “There are 10 zoning districts for the unincorporated areas of Kankakee County. This section provides an overview of each of the zoning districts, and is not a comprehensive listing of all uses and zoning requirements. Each zoning district lists permitted and special uses as well as bulk requirements.”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeSpecified

    Multiple-family dwellings in the county R1 single-family residence district.

    • The use is a special use.
    • The lot must be initially under single ownership and control, contain at least two acres, and have at least 250 feet of frontage on a road.
    • Central sewer and water facilities are required.

    minimum floor area per dwelling unit: >= 700 square feet

    “Multiple-family dwellings, on a lot initially under single ownership and control containing at least two acres in area and which has at least 250 feet of frontage on a road. All multiple-family dwellings shall be served by central sewer and water facilities. Minimum size shall be 700 square feet per dwelling unit.”
  • Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Single-family detached dwelling lots in the county R1 district.

    • With individual sewage disposal and individual wells: at least 30,000 square feet and no more than two acres, with at least 120 feet width; if the percolation test rate is more than two inches per hour, the lot may be reduced to 20,000 square feet and 100 feet width.
    • With public or community water and individual sewage disposal: at least 15,000 square feet and no more than two acres, with at least 90 feet width.
    • With public or community sewerage and an individual well: at least 12,000 square feet and no more than two acres, with at least 80 feet width.

    minimum lot area: >= 30000 square feet (May be reduced to 20,000 square feet when percolation test rate exceeds two inches per hour.) · minimum lot width: >= 120 feet (May be reduced to 100 feet with the same percolation condition.)

    “Not less than 30,000 square feet and not more than two acres with a lot width of not less than 120 feet when served with individual sewerage disposal systems and individual wells. However, if the percolation test rate in inches per hour is more than two, the lot size may be reduced to 20,000 square feet and the lot width to 100 feet.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • District specific (with conditions) — Lots created through subdivisions in unincorporated Kankakee County.
      “All lots shall meet the minimum depth, width, and area requirements of the applicable district in the zoning ordinance and subdivision regulations.”
    • Specified — Lots in the county RE rural estate residence district.
      “Lot size. Minimum lot size of one acre. (e) Lot width . Minimum lot width shall be 150 feet.”
    • Specified — Single-family detached dwellings and mobile-type manufactured homes in the county R2 high density residence district.
      “Dwelling; single-family detached; on a lot containing at least 8,000 square feet with a lot width of 70 feet.”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Principal structures in unincorporated Kankakee County zoning districts.

    • The listed table applies to principal structures.
    • For C1, C2, I1, and I2 districts, the official FAQ directs users to the zoning ordinance for requirements.
    • Accessory structures must be no nearer than 10 feet from the principal structure or 5 feet from an interior lot line.

    A-1 front setback: 50 feet · A-1 side setback: 30 interior / 50 corner lot feet · A-1 rear setback: 100 feet · A-2 front setback: 50 feet · A-2 side setback: 20 interior / 50 corner lot feet · A-2 rear setback: 50 feet · R1 front setback: 30 feet · R1 side setback: 6 interior / 30 corner lot feet · R1 rear setback: 40 feet · R2 front setback: 20 feet · R2 side setback: 6 interior / 20 corner lot feet · R2 rear setback: 25 feet · RE front setback: 50 feet · RE side setback: 20 interior / 50 corner lot feet · RE rear setback: 50 feet

    “The setbacks outlined below are for principal structures: A-1 (Agriculture)50 feet 30 feet - interior / 50 feet - corner lot 100'”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Buildings in the county RE rural estate residence district.
      “Setback requirements. Except as otherwise regulated herein for a specific permitted use or special use, setbacks shall be provided as follows (See general provisions for measuring setbacks): (1) Front: not less than 50 feet in depth. (2) Side: not less than 20 feet in width except a side adjoining a street, not less than 50 feet in width. (3) Rear: not less than 50 feet in depth.”
  • Lot coverageSpecified

    Lots in the county RE rural estate residence district.

    maximum lot coverage: <= 30 percent of lot size

    “Lot coverage. Lot coverage shall not exceed 30 percent of the lot size.”
  • Building heightSpecified

    Buildings in the county RE rural estate residence district.

    • The lower of the two limits controls.

    maximum height: <= 35 feet (Also limited to not more than 2½ stories; whichever limit is lower controls.)

    “Building height limitations. Not more than 2½ stories, or 35 feet, whichever is lower.”
  • Who permits septicCounty

    Private septic systems in Kankakee County administered through the Kankakee County Health Department.

    • The cited page identifies KCHD as issuing septic system permits and conducting installation inspections.
    “KCHD Issues septic system permits, conducts inspections to ensure proper installation, conducts evaluation of existing systems, conducts dye tests to determine possible failures, evaluates findings, and makes recommendations.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    New private sewage disposal system installations and repairs or modifications to existing systems in Kankakee County.

    • Plan approval must be obtained from the Kankakee County Health Department or local authority before construction or repair begins.
    • Normal approval should be expected in approximately seven (7) to ten (10) days, but the source states this is not guaranteed because schedules or conditions may vary.
    • A site review with a seven-foot test hole may be required for water-table and bedrock evaluation.
    • Homeowners may install their own systems if they live on the site and install the entire system, but a permit is still required.
    • Written variance requests go to the Kankakee County Health Department Sewage Treatment Ordinance or Illinois State Private Sewage Disposal Licensing Act and Code; the Kankakee County Board of Health is the final variance authority.

    normal approval time: 7-10 days (Not guaranteed; schedules or conditions may vary.)

    “A sewage permit is required for a new installation or any repair work or modification to an existing system.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Private septic-system permitting administered by the Kankakee County Health Department
      “KCHD Issues septic system permits, conducts inspections to ensure proper installation, conducts evaluation of existing systems, conducts dye tests to determine possible failures, evaluates findings, and makes recommendations.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Inspection of newly installed private sewage disposal systems in Kankakee County.

    • The Department must receive a minimum of 24-48 hours' notice for inspection.
    • The inspection includes appropriate measurements of the entire installed system to confirm construction compliance.
    • The licensed installer or homeowner constructing the system should be onsite during inspection.
    • Transits or lasers should be onsite at inspection.
    • The system must not be covered until the Health Department gives final approval.

    inspection notice: 24-48 hours

    “An inspection will include: all appropriate measurements of the entire private sewage disposal system installed to assure it was constructed according to the requirements. [...] The system shall not be covered until final approval is given by the Health Department.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Kankakee County Health Department inspections of private septic-system installations
      “KCHD Issues septic system permits, conducts inspections to ensure proper installation, conducts evaluation of existing systems, conducts dye tests to determine possible failures, evaluates findings, and makes recommendations.”
  • Well permitRequired

    Construction of private wells in Kankakee County where public water is not available; the county application also covers deepening, repair, and sealing of wells.

    • Kankakee County Health Department issues permits for private-well construction where public water is unavailable.
    • The official application covers constructing, deepening, repairing, or sealing dug, driven, bored, or drilled wells.
    • The application lists a $100 permit fee, $100 inspection fee, and $50 water-sample fee; the newer 2023 county fee schedule lists a $260 well-drilling/pump-installation/water-supply permit fee, $50 sealing fee, and $400 non-compliance fee for work performed without a permit.
    • A water-sample fee may be refunded for a new well when the property owner or well driller supplies the sample, according to the application.
    • Well construction plans must identify required separation distances and other contamination sources.

    well permit fee: 260 USD (2023 Kankakee County Health Department fee schedule) · well sealing fee: 50 USD (2023 Kankakee County Health Department fee schedule) · non-compliance fee: 400 USD (Work performed without a permit; 2023 fee schedule) · septic tank separation: >= 50 feet · seepage field separation: >= 75 feet

    “KCHD issues well permits for the construction of private wells in areas where public water is not available, conducting inspections to assure proper installation.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Water well construction handled through the Kankakee County Health Department.
      “KCHD issues well permits for the construction of private wells in areas where public water is not available, conducting inspections to assure proper installation.”
    • Limited — Construction of private wells in Kankakee County areas where public water is not available.
      “KCHD issues well permits for the construction of private wells in areas where public water is not available, conducting inspections to assure proper installation.”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    Agricultural-purpose projects on property principally used for agriculture in the county Building and Zoning Division's permit process.

    • The project must be for an agricultural purpose.
    • The property must be principally used for agriculture as defined by ILCS/55-12000.
    • Form AG-001-17 must accompany the application to receive the agricultural exemption benefits.
    • The county application does not itself state the scope of the underlying statutory exemption or eliminate other applicable requirements.

    required form: AG-001-17 (Must accompany the application to receive agricultural exemption benefits.)

    “form AG-001-17 must accompany this application to receive the agricultural exemption benefits.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — Dividing a farmstead from an agricultural parcel in Kankakee County.
      “This process allows property owners wishing to divide a farmstead from an agricultural parcel, provided all application criteria is met.”
    • Conditional — Dividing a farmstead from an agricultural parcel through Kankakee County's farmstead exemption process.
      “In July 2002 the Kankakee County Board adopted the farmstead exemption application. This process allows property owners wishing to divide a farmstead from an agricultural parcel, provided all application criteria is met.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision of land in unincorporated Kankakee County, especially parcels divided into parcels containing less than five acres.

    • A subdivision plat is typically required for parcels containing less than five acres.
    • Minor subdivisions are divisions into not more than five lots that do not involve new streets, roads, or extensions of municipal facilities.
    • Major subdivisions include country subdivisions outside one and one-half miles of a city or village corporate limit and urban subdivisions within one and one-half miles of a city or village with sanitary sewer treatment, subdivisions containing multifamily units, or subdivisions within 1,000 feet of an existing sewer or water main.
    • The county page states that the County Board approved new regulations for subdivisions in unincorporated Kankakee County on December 9, 2008.
    • Preliminary plats receive a 45-day public review; final plats are filed with the County Recorder of Deeds following County Board approval.
    • All subdivisions must submit an Illinois Department of Natural Resources EcoCAT results report when filing the preliminary-plat application.
    • Minor subdivision fee: $250 plus $20 per lot. Major subdivision fee: $600 plus $20 per lot.

    plat threshold: < 5 acres (A subdivision plat is not required when subdividing property into parcels containing more than five acres, subject to the separate large-tract provisions stated on the county page.) · minor subdivision maximum lots: <= 5 lots (Must not involve new streets, roads, or extension of municipal facilities.) · urban subdivision sewer/water distance: <= 1000 feet (Applies to subdivisions within 1,000 feet of an existing sewer or water main.) · minor subdivision fee: 250 USD (Plus $20 per lot.) · major subdivision fee: 600 USD (Plus $20 per lot.)

    “A subdivision plat is typically required when a parcel of land is subdivided into parcels containing less than five (5) acres.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision of land in unincorporated Kankakee County.
      “On December 9, 2008 the County Board approved new regulations for subdivisions in unincorporated Kankakee County.”
    • Limited — Subdividing property into parcels containing more than five acres in unincorporated Kankakee County.
      “When subdividing property into parcels containing more than five (5) acres, a subdivision plat is not required.”
  • Driveway accessLimited

    Driveway access associated with parcels and subdivisions in unincorporated Kankakee County.

    • Parcels must comply with driveway spacing requirements regulated by Section 4.09 of the County Zoning Ordinance.
    • The cited county page does not state the numeric spacing limits.
    “The parcels must comply with driveway spacing requirements, as regulated in Section 4.09 of the Zoning Ordinance.”
  • Building in a floodplainLimited

    Development in floodplains in unincorporated Kankakee County.

    • Floodplain permits may require approval from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, or both.
    • The cited county guide does not specify which projects require each approval.
    “Floodplain permits may need the approval of either the Army Corp of Engineers or the Illinois Department of Natural Resources or both.”
  • Permit feesVariable (with conditions)

    Kankakee County building permits for unincorporated areas.

    • The building permit fee is based on the estimated project value, including materials and labor.
    • The county directs applicants to contact a Code Official for an estimate.
    • Checks are payable to the Kankakee County Treasurer.

    fee basis: estimated project value including material and labor

    “Building permit fees are based on the estimated value of the project, which includes cost of material and labor. For an estimate on the cost of your building permit contact a Code Official. Make checks payable to the Kankakee County Treasurer.”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Building permit applications in unincorporated Kankakee County.

    • Applicants create a one-time personal account in the online portal.
    • Applicants may apply for permits, check status, and submit required documentation online.
    • The county's guide states that the review process may vary by project scope and application volume.
    • The county's permit guide lists required information including the tax identification number, owner information, project description, plot plan, cost estimate or signed contract, licensed contractor list, and, when applicable, floodplain survey, recorded deed, and two complete sets of construction plans.

    target review time: 10 working days (The county states the review process can vary depending on project scope and the number of applications waiting.)

    “Kankakee County now offers the ability to apply for building permits and to renew contractor’s registrations on-line using our new Building Division Portal. Follow the link provided to begin using this new service. Once there, you will need to create a one-time personal account which will allow you to apply for permits, check their status, and submit any required documentation.”

Illinois rules that apply here

  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    Occupancy permits or certificates for privately funded construction in Illinois.

    • The State does not issue occupancy permits for privately funded construction.
    • If an occupancy permit is required, it is addressed by the applicable unit of local government.
    “No. If any of these are required, they would be addressed by the unit of local government.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Not required — Issuance of occupancy permits or certificates by the State of Illinois for privately funded construction.
      “No. If any of these are required, they would be addressed by the unit of local government.”
  • Manufactured homesAllowed (with conditions)

    Occupancy of manufactured homes as dwellings, including occupancy in manufactured home communities regulated by IDPH.

    • Manufactured home communities with 5 or more sites must be licensed by IDPH, except communities located in home rule units.
    • IDPH annually inspects licensed communities for renewal, including water, sewage disposal, electrical systems, lighting, roads, spacing of homes, and garbage disposal.
    • Manufactured homes moved since January 1, 1980 must be secured using equipment meeting IDPH standards.
    • Effective December 31, 2001, manufactured homes must be installed by an Illinois licensed manufactured home installer or the homeowner and installed according to manufacturer instructions; if unavailable, the IDPH Manufactured Home Installation Code applies.
    • Local zoning, building, floodplain, and utility requirements may also apply.

    manufactured home community license threshold: >= 5 sites (Communities located in home rule units are excepted from this IDPH licensing statement.) · moved-home tiedown requirement effective date: >= 1980-01-01 · installation requirement effective date: >= 2001-12-31

    “designed and situated so as to permit its occupancy as a dwelling place for one or more persons”
  • Off-grid sanitationAllowed (with conditions)

    Off-grid disposal of human wastes through privies, portable toilets, recirculation toilets, incinerator toilets, and compost toilets statewide in Illinois.

    • Other domestic wastes must be disposed of in a conventional private sewage disposal system.
    • Compost toilets may also be used for other organic domestic wastes.
    • Privies have construction, capacity, venting, maintenance, and abandonment requirements.
    • A privy pit must have a minimum capacity of 50 cubic feet per seat.
    • A privy must be pumped when filled to within 18 inches of the bottom of the riser.
    • Vault privies are required where groundwater or limestone formations are within 4 feet of the bottom of the pit.
    • Recirculating toilets must meet NSF International/ANSI Standard 41 and residuals must go to an approved public or private sewage disposal system.
    • Incinerator and compost toilets have separate maintenance and disposal requirements; compost toilets must meet NSF International/ANSI Standard 41.

    privy pit minimum capacity: >= 50 cubic feet per seat · privy pumping trigger: <= 18 inches from bottom of riser (Pump when filled to within this distance.) · vault-privy groundwater or limestone separation: < 4 feet from bottom of pit (Watertight, non-metal vaults are required where the condition applies.)

    “Privies, portable toilets, recirculation toilets, incinerator toilets and compost toilets are approved for private sewage disposal of human wastes.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Alternative private sewage disposal and off-grid sanitation systems in Kankakee County, including systems without surface discharge and alternative systems reviewed under Illinois private sewage rules.
      “The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) regulates the installation of all private sewage disposal systems that have no surface discharge (such as septic tanks and seepage fields) as well as those that discharge treated effluent up to 1,500 gallons per day to the ground surface (such as sand filters and aerobic treatment systems). Staff also review and approve plans for private sewage disposal systems and alternative private sewage disposal systems before construction.”
  • Short-term rentalsLimited

    Short-term rentals in Illinois where at least one room is rented for fewer than 30 consecutive days and accommodations are reserved in advance, when the hosting platform meets the statutory definition of a re-renter.

    • Beginning July 1, 2025, qualifying hosting platforms are subject to Hotel Operators’ Occupation Tax.
    • The source establishes tax and registration obligations, not statewide land-use permission; local zoning and licensing may separately apply.

    rental period: < 30 consecutive days

    “Beginning July 1, 2025, hosting platforms for short-term rentals that meet the definition of “re-renter” are subject to Hotel Operators’ Occupation Tax.”
  • Campground & park staysAllowed (with conditions)

    Overnight camping in Illinois campgrounds subject to the Campground Licensing and Recreational Area Act.

    • IDPH annually inspects and licenses campgrounds in Illinois.
    • The state campground definition includes camping and temporary parking of recreational vehicles.
    • Campgrounds within home rule units of government are exempt from the state campground licensing requirement.
    • Recreational areas without overnight camping, such as highway rest stops and picnicking areas, are subject to the rules but are not licensed or routinely inspected.

    minimum persons for statutory campground threshold: >= 10 persons · minimum camping duration for statutory campground threshold: >= 6 camping days per calendar year

    ““Camping Day” means any 24 hour period or portion thereof during which the participants remain overnight at the site.”
  • county building authorityLimited

    County building-construction and building-code regulation, including residential structures, in counties meeting the statutory population and metropolitan-area conditions.

    • The county must have a population not in excess of 1,000,000.
    • The county must be located in the area served by the Northeastern Illinois Metropolitan Area Planning Commission.
    • Rules are subject to rules or regulations adopted by the State Fire Marshal under the cited gasoline and volatile-oils statute.
    • The county must exempt municipalities located wholly or partly within the county when the municipal building code is equal to the county regulation and local authorities are enforcing that municipal code.
    • The rules apply throughout the county, but municipalities may establish higher standards.
    • The rules do not apply to construction or alteration of buildings or structures used or to be used for agricultural purposes on a tract zoned and used for agricultural purposes.
    • The county board must follow the publication and posting requirements in 55 ILCS 5/5-1063.
    • Beginning on the effective date of the amendatory Act of the 92nd General Assembly, a county adopting a new building code or amending an existing building code must provide the building-code identification to the Capital Development Board under Section 10.18 at least 30 days before adoption.
    • Violations are petty offenses, and enforcement is by an officer designated by county-board resolution.
    • The provision expressly authorizes county building-construction and building-code rules, but the opened text does not expressly use the phrase residential building permit requirement.

    population threshold: <= 1000000 persons (The county must be located in the area served by the Northeastern Illinois Metropolitan Area Planning Commission.) · pre-adoption identification period: >= 30 days (Applies to a new building code or amendment under the stated amendatory-Act provision.)

    “The county board in any county with a population not in excess of 1,000,000 located in the area served by the Northeastern Illinois Metropolitan Area Planning Commission may prescribe by resolution or ordinance reasonable rules and regulations (a) governing the construction and alteration of all buildings and structures and parts and appurtenances thereof and governing the maintenance thereof in a condition reasonably safe from the hazards of fire, explosion, collapse, contagion and the spread of infectious disease”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • General — Illinois counties adopting and enforcing building codes and issuing building permits for residential construction in unincorporated areas, subject to the statewide baseline framework.
      “A municipality or county is not required to adopt building codes. If they do NOT adopt a building code then they are considered a non-building code jurisdiction and section 10.09-1 of the Capital Development Board Act (20 ILCS 3105) applies. If they do adopt a building code(s) then it must comply with section 10.18 of the Capital Development Board Act (20 ILCS 3105).”

Still unanswered

We looked and could not find an official answer yet. Silence is not permission — ask the county directly.

  • Living in an RV — Long-term or residential occupancy of recreational vehicles on private land in Kankakee County; incorporated municipalities may apply separate rules.
  • Camping on your land — Temporary camping on private land in Kankakee County; incorporated municipalities may apply separate rules.
  • Tiny homes — Occupancy of tiny homes on private land in Kankakee County; incorporated municipalities may apply separate rules.
  • Accessory dwellings — Accessory dwelling units in Kankakee County; incorporated municipalities may apply separate rules.
  • Mandatory utility hookup — Water and sewer connection requirements for property in Kankakee County.

Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.

Living off-grid in Kankakee County, Illinois

Is Kankakee County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?

Kankakee County scores 36/100 on the Bolthole Index, a marginal county profile. Its strengths: mixed durability signals and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: about 78,300 people within a 30-minute drive and workable self-sufficiency basics (39.3″/yr rainfall).

Do you need a building permit in Kankakee County, Illinois?

Kankakee County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Kankakee County Health Department (Environmental Health / Septic Program). Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

How much does land cost in Kankakee County, Illinois?

Land in Kankakee County runs about $6,734 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Kankakee County?

Kankakee County gets about 39.3" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 0.9% of years.

How remote is Kankakee County?

A representative private-land location has about 78,300 people within a 30-minute drive and 10,372,749 within two hours. The road-network catchments count population across county lines and clusters of smaller cities; straight-line radius values remain available as a comparison.

How Kankakee compares in Illinois

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