Custom homes and remodels in Lockport, a canal town with a Historic District.
Lockport, IL
Lockport canal homes and historic review
Lockport sits along the Illinois and Michigan Canal and was the canal's headquarters when it operated. The Gaylord Building, a limestone warehouse from 1838, is still standing on the canal's east side. RL Builders builds custom homes, additions and high end remodels in Lockport. The first thing to find out about any lot here is whether it's inside the Historic District.
Our closest finished project is Homer Glen Ranch, built in 2018, and our office is in Lemont. Frank Lello is on site every day and you work with one contact. References and tours of finished RL homes are available on request.
County
Will County
Population
26,094 (2020)
Permits
Building Department, Community and Economic Development, City of Lockport
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
Historic District review and permits in Lockport
Any change made inside Lockport's Historic District needs a Certificate of Appropriateness approval, and properties in the district don't get the standard list of permit exemptions. The Planning and Zoning page lists the application, along with endangered species and natural resource information report applications for development.
Outside the district the process is more standard. A permit is required to demolish or remove a building, to excavate or change grade, and to erect, alter or enlarge any building, garage, deck, porch or retaining wall. The city gives a typical review time of 10 to 14 business days for most residential projects and new homes, and new construction is reviewed by multiple departments.
Applications can go to the Building Department in person or by email. A new residential permit is valid for one year, and a miscellaneous or remodeling permit is valid for six months.
Excavation brings a street bond, including for detached garages and additions, to make sure dirt and mud are cleared promptly. Any contractor working in the city must register with the Building Department before starting. The development code and zoning ordinance are on the city's code library, along with a 2026 zoning map. RL coordinates the permits and lines the plans up with the city's rules. See custom homes.
Sources: City of Lockport Building Department, Lockport building permit FAQ, Lockport planning and zoning
Services
What we build in Lockport
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 Lockport
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.
Brick Estate Home
A two story brick custom home with a finished walkout lower level and a multi level outdoor living setup with a covered patio and deck.
FAQ
Building in Lockport: questions
Does Lockport's Historic District need special approval?
Yes. Any change made within the Historic District is subject to a Certificate of Appropriateness approval, and properties in the district don't get the standard list of permit exemptions. The application is listed on the city's Planning and Zoning page.
How long does a Lockport permit review take?
The city gives a typical review time of 10 to 14 business days for most residential projects and for new homes, and new construction is reviewed by multiple departments. A new residential permit is valid for one year.
Why would a Lockport project need a street bond?
A street bond is required for permits involving excavation, including detached garages and additions. It's there to make sure dirt and mud are removed promptly from the street. Count it in the budget for any job that digs.
Does RL Builders build in Lockport?
Yes. We take work in Lockport. Homer Glen Ranch, built in 2018, is our closest finished project, and we can arrange tours and references on request.
Planning a build in Lockport?
Call (708) 301-0700 or send a few details, and Frank will talk through your lot, budget and timing.
