FAQs • Carbondale, IL • CivicEngage

Who should I contact about abandoned cars or personal property parked on a City street?: Enforcement of unlicensed/inoperable vehicles and cars that appear abandoned or unattended on a City street should be reported to Building and Neighborhood Services at (618) 457-3237. Recreational vehicles have special requirements. Check with Building and Neighborhood Services.

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Building and Neighborhood Services FAQs

1. What commercial and residential building codes does the City enforce?: The City enforces the 2003 International Building and Residential Code and the latest version of the National Electric Code.

2. My landlord won’t fix problem(s) in my rental unit. Can the City help me?: If you have contacted your landlord and they still won’t fix the problem(s), you can call Building and Neighborhood Services at (618) 457-3237 to request an inspection. A notice of violation will be sent to your landlord, ordering them to make corrections.

3. When should I get a building permit?: You should get a building permit if you are considering any major remodel, new construction, addition, garage, etc. inside Carbondale city limits. Refer to the Building Permits page or call (618) 457-3252.

4. How do I obtain a building permit?: In order to obtain a building permit, building plans and site plans must be submitted to the City and reviewed by the Building Inspector for compliance with the Carbondale Revised Code. All applicable fees must be paid. For more information, contact Building and Neighborhood Services at (618) 457-3237. Submit an online building permit application.

5. How are permit fees calculated?: Fees for building permits are based on the estimated cost of the work, two-tenths of one percent (0.2%) with a minimum fee of five dollars ($5).

6. Can I construct a detached storage building or garage?: Yes, you can construct a detached storage building or garage. A permit is required to add to, alter, remove or demolish a building or structure or install equipment for the operation of a building or structure. Visit our Permits & Applications page.

7. Does the City require a building permit for fences and driveways?: The City requires a zoning certificate for fences and driveways. Visit our Permits & Applications page.

8. Do I need a permit for a pool?: An accessory structure permit is required for all in-ground and above-ground swimming pools. Visit our Permits & Applications page.

9. What are the requirements to rent a property?: The property owner(s) must complete the City’s Rental Housing Registration Form with Building and Neighborhood Services and successfully pass a City housing inspection.

10. Is a building permit required for private decks?: A building permit is required for decks over 30 inches off the ground. Visit our Permits & Applications page.

11. May I store my refuse carts outside?: Refuse carts can be stored outside behind the front line of the residence and not at the curb. They must be moved back to the house on the same day the trash is collected. Carts stored outside and used for trash storage should have closed lids and no trash spilling out. Refer to Title 10 of the Carbondale Revised Code for solid waste collection and storage.

12. Where can I park additional vehicles if I need more parking spaces?: You can park on any private paved driveway or existing gravel driveway, but not on lawns or sidewalks. For planning, zoning and subdivisions policies, refer to Title 15 of the Carbondale Revised Code.

13. What are the rules for parking on private property for car repairs?: Vehicles should not park on private property or in a City street in a residential area for car repairs unless it’s an emergency situation. Repairs should always be performed in a garage.

14. Who should I contact about abandoned cars or personal property parked on a City street?: Enforcement of unlicensed/inoperable vehicles and cars that appear abandoned or unattended on a City street should be reported to Building and Neighborhood Services at (618) 457-3237. Recreational vehicles have special requirements. Check with Building and Neighborhood Services.

15. What is the height restriction on grass and weeds?: Grass and weeds over eight inches in height are a nuisance and are required to be removed by Carbondale Revised Code.

16. Do I need a permit to have a garage sale? Where can I display my signs?: Permits are not required for garage sales; however, the placement of the signs is regulated. Signs should be displayed from private property after obtaining the owner’s permission. Signs mounted on street or traffic signs, utility poles or fire hydrants within the rights-of-way are subject to removal.

17. What about other types of signs?: Refer to the Carbondale Revised Code for specific residential and non-residential sign regulations.

18. Why is an abandoned house allowed to sit vacant and deteriorate?: Property owners are required to secure a vacant house or structure to prevent unlawful entry. It may be necessary to board up glass windows to prevent damage or vandalism. Sometimes these properties are abandoned, under foreclosure, or in probate court for years and may become unsightly, but may not be considered dangerous. The Chronic Nuisance Ordinance has minimum requirements for exterior property maintenance. A vacant property can be inspected by Building and Neighborhood Services if reported as a concern for a neighborhood.

19. How do I file a complaint against my landlord?: If you feel that you have been discriminated against, refer to the Fair Housing Policy. For all other complaints, contact Building and Neighborhood Services at (618) 457-3237.

20. How often is a landlord required to have their property inspected?: Rental properties in Carbondale are routinely scheduled for inspection by the Building and Neighborhood Services Division every three years.