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Burr Ridge trustees approve contractor registration ordinance to add consumer protections
Summary
The Burr Ridge board voted unanimously June 9 to amend Chapter 22 to create a contractor registration program requiring annual registration, proof of insurance and state licenses when applicable, and a fee (staff said the fee would be either $200 or $100); the rule is slated to go into effect Aug. 1.
The Burr Ridge village board voted unanimously June 9 to adopt an ordinance amending Chapter 22 of the municipal code to establish a contractor registration program intended to protect residents and provide the village a means to address contractor violations.
Janine, a community development staff member, told trustees the program would require contractors to submit a certificate of liability insurance showing workers’ compensation coverage, a bond when applicable and copies of any state licenses (for trades such as plumbers and electricians). “To register, contractors would need to pay a fee. It’s either $200 or $100,” Janine said. Staff said licenses would be valid for one year from the date of issuance and that state-exempt contractors would not be subject to bond requirements.
Trustees asked for clarifications and suggested additions to the list of covered trades. Trustee Frances asked that fence contractors be added, citing prior problems, and asked whether landscape maintenance contractors — those who simply cut grass — would be required; staff said lawn maintenance without a building permit was not the intent of the registration. Trustees also confirmed that roofing contractors who hold state licenses would be exempt from bond requirements but would submit copies of their state license.
Supporters on the board described registration as a common consumer-protection practice in neighboring communities and noted it could help the village identify repeat offenders and maintain a list of contractors in good standing to assist residents seeking services. Staff said the program would allow the village to site contractors (rather than residents) for violations of building and conduct rules when appropriate.
The board moved, seconded and approved the ordinance by a recorded vote of five to zero. Trustees also approved related consent items and vendor lists earlier in the meeting. Staff said, if approved, the registration program would take effect Aug. 1.
