A special use permit authorizes land uses that are allowed only with additional oversight and regulation within the applicable zoning district.

A Special Use Permit (SUP) is a permit issued by the City Council that allows the establishment of certain uses, in certain districts, that are considered worthy of additional scrutiny in their proposed location. Such uses typically require special review for design, location, and impact on surrounding properties.

As used in this act, "specific use permit" means a permit granted by a municipal governing body, after notice and a hearing and preliminary review and recommendation of a municipal planning commission, for a specific use within any zoning district.

In general, improvements, replacements, and repairs require permits. Exemptions from permitting are allowed for certain work, but vary for each jurisdiction. Always check with your Building, Zoning, Fire, Environmental Health (lead paint, asbestos, etc.), and Public Works Departments for their specific requirements.

To obtain special use approval from the ZBA, you must complete the City's Special Use Application (“Application”), which can be found online here or picked up from City zoning staff on the 9th Floor of City Hall, 121 N. LaSalle Street (the “Zoning Office”).

Conditional Use Permit form. $2,500 at cost deposit for all districts. $4,000 deposit to approve: an outdoor recreation facility, sanitary landfill, flight strip, heliport, cemetery, church, or school.

A Special Use Permit may be issued to cover one event or multiple events, over a period of 12 months or less, on a single property. A separate application and fee are needed for each property. Special Use Permits are issued to a single individual or organization and are not transferable.