(A) Definitions. For the purpose of this section, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
MAINTENANCE. To keep in good standing or maintenance so as to avoid the need to repair.
REPAIR. To restore to sound or good condition after damage, decay or injury; to fix.
(B) Permits. No permit shall be required for:
(1) Appliance repair. In cases where a property owner personally undertakes the maintenance or repair of appliances (such as dishwashers, water heaters, air conditioning units, toilets, lavatories, boilers or heating units) insofar as the existing connections or plumbing devices can be reapplied to the appliance, with no new construction required.
(2) Building repair. In the repair of an existing structure or building, provided: the repair relates to a damaged or rotted portion of a structure or building, and does not exceed 25% of the total replacement cost of the portion being repaired.
(3) Exterior painting. In the cases where the painting is of existing colors and locations, provided that in the Historic District, a certificate of appropriateness must be approved prior to changing of a color or paint location.
(4) Retaining walls. In the maintenance or repair of retaining walls under three feet in height, sidewalks and landscaping, provided such maintenance or repair does not exceed 25% of their total replacement cost. A building permit is required to perform repairs to any retaining wall over three feet in height, and for repairs to any other retaining walls when the repair cost exceeds 25% of their total replacement cost.
(5) Interior paint and wallpaper. In the maintenance or repair of interior wallpapering, painting, trim work, floors or ceiling surface treatments. Repairs to ceilings involving exposing of the ceiling joists requires a building permit.
(C) Exceptions.
(1) Electrical work. Nothing in this section shall be interpreted to permit anyone but a licensed electrician to do any electrical work requiring an electrical permit, except that a property owner may perform electrical work on his or her own residence, providing the work is properly permitted and meets the requirements of the National Electrical Code.
(2) Plumbing.
(a) Nothing in this section shall be interpreted to permit anyone but a licensed plumber to do any plumbing requiring a plumbing permit, or to do any work requiring a plumber's license or a plumbing contractor's license.
(b) A property owner may plumb perform plumbing work on his or her own residence, provided the work is properly permitted and meets the requirements of the Illinois State Plumbing Code.
(c) No owner shall be authorized hereunder to work on a line conveying: gas; steam; or any gas or liquid, except water and wastewater.
(Ord. O-00-24, passed 9-25-00; Am. Ord. O-04-30, passed 12-13-04; Am. Ord. O-05-02, passed 2-28-05
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