Before investing in full architectural designs or detailed engineering studies in Cook County, it’s critical to use your feasibility period wisely. This early stage—usually secured through a purchase agreement or due diligence contingency—gives you time to understand zoning restrictions, permitting requirements, and potential project costs before committing significant funds.

Here’s how to evaluate your site and project potential using Cook County’s planning and permitting processes.

Understand Cook County Building and Zoning Oversight

Cook County’s Department of Building and Zoning handles permits, plan reviews, inspections, and zoning administration for unincorporated areas. Early in your feasibility period, familiarize yourself with these departments and their workflows to accurately estimate timelines and document needs.

Verify Zoning and Land Use Regulations

Start by confirming your property’s zoning district and any applicable overlays or special regulations. Zoning ordinances in Cook County outline:

• Permitted uses (residential, commercial, industrial, agricultural)

• Minimum lot sizes, frontage requirements, and maximum building heights

• Setback distances from property lines and adjacent streets

• Special district requirements, such as floodplain or environmentally sensitive areas

Knowing these zoning details early helps determine whether your proposed use is allowed by right or if you’ll need a special use permit or zoning variance.

Prepare a Conceptual Site Plan

During feasibility, develop a conceptual site plan that includes key elements required by Cook County. A strong site plan generally shows:

• Lot boundaries and easements

• Proposed building footprints and setback measurements

• Access points, driveways, and parking layouts

• Stormwater drainage patterns and grading considerations

• Utility connections for water, sewer, and electric service

• Proposed landscaping, buffer zones, and open space areas

A clear preliminary site plan helps you visualize your project and supports early discussions with the county.

Estimate Permit Fees and Review Timelines

Cook County calculates permit fees based on the scope of work and estimated construction value. During feasibility, it’s important to research:

• Permit fees for new residential or commercial structures

• Fees for accessory structures, additions, or renovations

• Average plan review durations, which can vary based on project complexity

Understanding these costs and timeframes in advance allows you to plan your budget and schedule realistically.

Schedule a Pre-Submittal or Pre-Application Meeting

Cook County encourages developers and property owners to schedule a pre-submittal meeting during the feasibility period. By presenting your conceptual site plan and general project description, you receive:

• Early feedback on zoning compliance and site constraints

• Guidance on potential technical studies required, such as environmental or traffic analyses

• Identification of major challenges before committing to full design

This meeting can help you avoid costly redesigns and unnecessary delays.

Identify Required Technical Studies and Approvals

Depending on your project type and site conditions, you may need to plan for:

• Stormwater management and drainage studies

• Soil or geotechnical investigations

• Traffic impact studies for larger or higher-intensity uses

• Environmental assessments if near sensitive areas or in flood zones

Accounting for these studies during feasibility ensures your timeline and budget remain realistic.

Understand Inspection and Final Approval Steps

It’s also wise to outline the likely inspection stages even while still in feasibility. Typical inspections include:

• Footing and foundation checks

• Utility rough-ins (plumbing, electrical, mechanical)

• Framing and structural inspections

• Site grading, landscaping, and final paving inspections

• Final Certificate of Occupancy inspection prior to occupancy or use

Having this sequence mapped out helps you understand the overall process and expected milestones.

Summary: Cook County Feasibility Checklist

• Confirm zoning district and special overlay requirements

• Develop a conceptual site plan showing key site elements

• Estimate permit fees and plan review timelines

• Schedule a pre-submittal meeting for early feedback

• Identify required technical studies and approvals

• Understand inspection milestones and final sign-off process

Ready to Validate Your Cook County Project?

If you’re in your feasibility period and need a professional preliminary site plan and feasibility assessment, we can help. Our services follow Cook County’s planning and permitting processes closely to provide you with clear go/no-go guidance—so you can move forward confidently and avoid costly surprises down the road.