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Residential Air Conditioners
Home air conditioning is almost a necessity during
the summer in the Midwest. Most Skokie homes with forced air heating systems have central air conditioning systems and older homes with hot water systems have special systems or window units. Residential air conditioning systems, both central and window units are allowed at all single-family homes and other residential housing types according to the following rules:
* Air conditioning condensers for central air conditioning units are only allowed in the rear and side yards. For properties that do not have an alley adjacent to the rear lot line, the unit must be located at least
10 feet from the lot line. All side yard units must be located at least 10 feet from the lot line. The noise produced by the units cannot exceed 55 decibels.
* Air conditioning condensers can only be installed at ground level.
* All air conditioning condensers must be installed in compliance with Village codes.
* Window and wall-type air conditioning units are allowed in the rear and side yards of homes. Side yard mounted units cannot exceed one ton or 12,000 B.T.U.s, whichever is less.
* All central air conditioning units require a permit that is issued by the Building and Zoning Division of the Community Development Department.
The permit is required for all central air conditioning units to assure that all work is performed in compliance with Village codes and that the condenser unit is properly located on the property. A permit application can be obtained by visiting the Building and Zoning Division on the first floor of Village Hall, by calling (847) 933-8223, or by visiting the Village's web site at www.skokie.org. All applications must be accompanied by a recent plat of survey (less than one year old), a sketch on a copy of the plat indicating the condenser location and a check for the permit fee to cover inspection costs.
The staff in the Building and Zoning Division are available to help you complete the application and answer questions.
Air Conditioner permits take approximately three working days to process. Processing time may increase during peak seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. As a homeowner, can I install my own central air conditioning system or do I need to hire a contractor?
A. Homeowners can install their own air conditioning system provided that plans are approved and a permit is obtained.
Q. Does the Village license air conditioning and heating contractors?
A. The Village does not license air conditioning or any other contractors; however, the Village has a list of registered and bonded contractors. Please call the Building and Zoning Division for the list. It is important to obtain several estimates and check the references of the contractor before signing a contract. The Village has a pamphlet on hiring a contractor that may be of assistance.
Q. Why is it necessary to have a recent plat of survey to apply for an air conditioner permit?
A. An accurate survey is necessary to assure that the air conditioner is properly located on your property and that yard setback requirements are met. The contractor and Village inspector will rely on the survey to verify that it is properly located. An air conditioning condenser that is incorrectly located in a required yard setback will need to be relocated.
Q. My house is located on a corner lot, are there any special regulations?
A. Yes, please contact the Building and Zoning Division for special requirements.
Q. I was told that I need a new air conditioner condenser but the old location does not meet current Zoning Ordinance setback requirements. Will I need to move the unit location?
A. Yes, all new units must meet current code requirements unless an exception permit was obtained for the previous unit. The Zoning Board of Appeals has the authority to grant an exception permit to place a condenser in a location prohibited by the Zoning Ordinance provided that specified standards are met. |
