Westmont board approves two‑month permit fee holiday to waive $100 on online express permits

The Westmont Village Board voted May 14 to adopt a pilot 'permit fee holiday' that waives the first $100 of select online building permit fees for two months this fall.

The ordinance, approved in a roll call vote with all trustees recorded in favor, applies to expedited 'express' permits such as residential roof replacements, window and door replacements that do not alter opening sizes, water heaters, air conditioners and furnaces. Director Henterfine told the board the change is intended to encourage online permitting and preserve inspection and licensing safeguards.

"We're proposing that in the months of September and October that we have a permit fee relief or holiday, which basically equates to about $100 on online permits for what we call express permits," Director Henterfine said, explaining staff want to direct applicants to the online system while avoiding additional review burdens on staff.

Henterfine said last year roughly 100 permits were issued in this two‑month window, which equates to about $10,000 in fees; the village will process inspections and maintain permit requirements even when the fee is waived. He also said staff will email both contractor and owner addresses when a reduced‑fee permit is issued so owners are aware if contractors obtained the reduced fee on their behalf.

Board members praised the proposal as a low‑risk way to encourage compliance and streamline administration. Mayor Steve T. Nero urged communications that emphasize the value of licensed contractors and required inspections so homeowners do not forgo safety steps when using the incentive.

The board directed staff to report results to the Community Development Committee after the pilot period to decide whether to continue or modify the program.

Next steps: the permit fee holiday will take effect in September 2026 for the two‑month pilot window; staff will return with a post‑pilot report.