Custom homes and remodels in a village where grading and tree work need permits.
Frankfort, IL
From the old grid by the tracks to newer lots, one permit rulebook
Frankfort's older streets follow a traditional grid around the historic business district and railroad line, and the 2020 census counted 6,902 housing units across the village. RL Builders builds custom homes and high end remodels in Frankfort.
Part of the 22 mile paved Old Plank Road Trail runs through the village. Frank Lello is on site every day and is the one number you call. References and tours of finished homes are available on request.
County
Cook and Will Counties
Population
20,296 (2020)
Permits
What clients say
Homeowners on working with Frank
Frank and his team built our dream home through COVID, and the quality has been exceptional. Years later he still checks in seasonally and stays a call or text away, which is rare and appreciated.
Julie Morris, homeownerFrank handled our kitchen renovation and we could not be happier with the final project. He was on site every day, used skilled craftsmen, and made what could have been stressful feel easy.
Homeowner, kitchen renovation
What to know before building in Frankfort
The Frankfort Building Department requires a permit to build a new home, remodel an existing structure, demolish a building, change grade, install major landscaping or remove protected trees. Because grade changes and protected trees are in that list, tree removal on your lot is part of permit review, not a separate afterthought. The department has separate pages for building fees, engineering, inspections and code compliance, and takes questions at VOFbuilding@frankfortil.org. A regraded yard or a large planting plan is worth checking with them too.
All new applications need an online account, which you use to apply, exchange messages and upload documents. Every contractor must be licensed by the village, and permits aren't issued until the contractor is. That's an easy thing to check before you sign anything.
The village's Community Development side lists Historic Preservation, Planning and Zoning and Engineering pages, along with a Plan Commission and a Zoning Board of Appeals. Frankfort also publishes historic building surveys and preservation guidelines, which are worth reading if your house is in the older part of town near Breidert Green and the Frankfort Grainery. A five member Tree Advisory Board advises on tree planting, species selection and maintenance.
RL coordinates the permits and lines the plans up with Frankfort's requirements. See custom homes and whole home renovations.
Sources: Frankfort permits and inspections, Frankfort Tree Advisory Board, Frankfort historic preservation, Frankfort, Illinois (Wikipedia)
Services
What we build in Frankfort
Custom Homes
New custom homes on your lot, typically $1M to $3.5M, finished in under a year for homes up to 10,000 sq ft.
Upscale Remodeling
High end kitchen, bathroom and main living remodels with the owner on site every day.
Complete Renovations
Whole home renovations that rework layout, finishes and systems as one project.
Basement Build Outs
Finished basements from framing through final trim, built to last below grade.
Additions and Extensions
Bedrooms, baths and living space that match the house and look original.
Specialty Projects
Fire restoration, demolition and select commercial build outs.
Projects
RL projects near Frankfort
Shadow Ridge
A 12,000 sq ft custom home with copper turrets, limestone block masonry and a home theater under a high strength garage floor. Built in under a year and featured on Comcast's "Builders & Buyers".
All the Bells and Whistles
A Mediterranean inspired estate of more than 10,000 sq ft with 6 bedrooms, 10 bathrooms, a home theater and indoor and outdoor pools. Built start to finish in under a year.
Homer Glen Ranch
A custom ranch home in Homer Glen with durable materials, clean detailing and covered outdoor areas. Completed in 2018.
FAQ
Building in Frankfort: questions
Does RL Builders build in Frankfort?
Yes. RL builds custom homes and remodels in Frankfort. Our finished projects are in Palos Park, Orland Park, Homer Glen and Downers Grove.
What needs a permit in Frankfort?
A new home, a remodel, a demolition, a change of grade, major landscaping and removal of protected trees all need a permit, according to the Building Department. If your plans touch the yard or the trees, count on that review.
Does the contractor have to be licensed in Frankfort?
Yes. Every contractor working in the village must be licensed by it, and permits are not issued until the contractor is licensed. Ask any builder to confirm theirs before you sign a contract.
How do I apply for a Frankfort building permit?
Create an online account. All new applications use it to apply, exchange messages with the department and upload supporting documents. The Building Department also takes questions by email at VOFbuilding@frankfortil.org.
Planning a build in Frankfort?
Call (708) 301-0700 or send a few details, and Frank will talk through your lot, budget and timing.
