Codes & permits
Plumbing permits in Evanston
Evanston requires every contractor under a permit to be registered — except licensed plumbers, whose license comes from the State. Backflow devices have their own program.
Calls are answered by a referral service that connects you with a local plumbing provider. How this works
All work that requires a permit requires all contractors working under the permit to be registered with the City of Evanston; licensed plumbers (State license) are not registration-eligible.
Source: City of Evanston 311 — Contractor registration for permitted work
An approved permit is required for each backflow prevention device before installation, and testing and certification must be done by a City-licensed C3 contractor holding an Illinois EPA cross-connection control device inspector license.
Source: City of Evanston — Cross-connection control: information for contractors
The City’s Permit Desk handles building, right-of-way and water/sewer permits. Evanston has a combined sewer system and a Sewer Repair Financial Assistance Program for private lateral repairs in the right-of-way. Evanston plumbing help
What we could not confirm
- Current plumbing permit fees (the fee schedule was updated January 1, 2025).
- Sewer contractor license criteria.
Check with the official source before relying on these points.
Frequently asked questions
Why aren’t plumbers registered with Evanston?
Plumber licensing is a State function in Illinois, so the City lists licensed plumbers as not registration-eligible; other trades working under the permit register locally.
Who can test my backflow preventer?
A City-licensed C3 contractor with an Illinois EPA cross-connection inspector license.
Sources
- City of Evanston — Building Permits Official / primary
- City of Evanston 311 — Contractor registration for permitted work Official / primary
- City of Evanston — Cross-connection control: information for contractors Official / primary
- City of Evanston — Combined Sewer System Official / primary
- City of Evanston — Sewer Repair Financial Assistance Program Official / primary
Information can change; official sources control.