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Building Permit Information

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1. Do you have a list of contractors that you recommend?

The City does not make specific recommendations but we are able to provide you with a list of electrical contractors who are registered in the City of Sycamore.

2. How are building setbacks measured?

Setbacks are measured from the property line. Setbacks are not measured from the street, curb or sidewalk. If you are unsure of the location of your property lines, you should refer to your plat of survey or have a licensed land surveyor locate your property pins.

3. How do I get a plat of survey for my property?

First, check your records from when you purchased your property to see if you requested a plat of survey at your closing.  If you are unable to locate your plat of survey, contact a licensed land surveyor to perform a survey to create a plat of your property.  The City of Sycamore does not provide plats of survey for private properties.

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Fire Department

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1. Who can answer questions about my ambulance bill?

Please direct all ambulance billing questions to Andres Medical Billing, which provides ambulance billing services on behalf of the City of Sycamore, by calling 847-305-5277 (local) or 877-618-0943 (toll-free). 

2. What are your charges for ambulance service?

The City of Sycamore charges a flat fee, plus a mileage (Transfer fee) for all levels of care given. The flat fee is $1,720 for City of Sycamore residents, Sycamore Fire Protection District residents and non-residents.

In addition to the ambulance transportation flat fee, a Transfer fee is also assessed as follows: Sycamore Resident and Sycamore Fire Protection District Transfer fees are $13 per loaded mile, from point of pick up to hospital destination. Non-Resident Transfer fees are $14 per loaded mile, from point of pick up to hospital destination.

The "Treat, No Transport Fee" is $200, when a patient does not requiring transport to the hospital, but treatment or service is necessary and provided, including the following: oxygen therapy, IV administration, 12-lead cardiac monitoring, inline nebulizer inhalation treatment, and/or administration of albuterol, oral glucose, glucagon and D-50.

3. How do I obtain a copy of my ambulance medical report?

Medical information by law is confidential. If the person requesting the report is the patient or the parent or legal guardian of the patient, a report may be given in person provided proper documentation is submitted. Requests are processed at the Administrative Offices at Fire Station 1 during normal business hours. If picking up the report in person, please call ahead at 815-895-4514 with your request, so that the report will be ready when you arrive at the fire station.

4. How do I obtain a copy of a fire report?

Property owners may obtain a copy of their report with proper photo identification. Fire report requests made by individuals other than the property owner, should complete a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) form and submit to the City Clerk’s office. Property owner or occupant requests are processed at the Administrative Offices at Fire Station 1 during normal business hours. If picking up the report in person, please call ahead at 815-895-4514 with your request, so that the report will be ready when you arrive at the fire station.

5. Can I burn leaves and landscape waste within the city limits?

No, the burning of leaves, lawn rakings and landscape waste is prohibited. Such material shall be placed in approved yard waste bags at curbside, with a weight of less than 50 pounds. Branches and limbs shall be tied in bundles no more than 4 feet in length and 2 feet in diameter, not to exceed 50 pounds. The City contracts with a private hauler to collect such yard waste between April 1 and November 30. Recreational and food-related fires are allowed if conducted within commercial/approved containers such as grills. Bonfires require a special permit from the Fire Department.

6. What are the regulations for open burning in unincorporated Sycamore?

Property owners in unincorporated DeKalb County should be aware that open burning is regulated in the State of Illinois (pursuant to Title 35: Environmental Protection, Subtitle B: Air Pollution, Chapter 1: Pollution Control Board, Subchapter i: Open Burning):

• The open burning of garbage (refuse from food) is prohibited in Illinois.
• The open burning of other domicile trash is prohibited within one mile of any municipality of 1,000 population or greater.
• The open burning of landscape waste (leaves, brush, grass, etc.) is prohibited on property within 1,000 feet of any municipality that prohibits landscape burning.

For additional information regarding DeKalb County burning regulations, please contact the DeKalb County Department of Planning, Zoning, and Building at 815-895-7188.

7. What should I do when my carbon monoxide (CO) detector is sounding?

Call 911, a delay in response could have deadly consequences. Please let the 911 Dispatcher know if anyone in the home is ill. If you have questions about purchasing a CO detector, we realize the choices can be overwhelming. Make sure the detector you choose has the UL (Underwriter’s Laboratory) seal.

8. What type of public education programs does the fire department offer?

Our public education presentations include but are not limited to: fire safety tours at the Fire Station, fire safety presentations, and certain special events. Please contact the Sycamore Fire Department administrative office between 8 am and 5 pm on weekdays at 815-895-4514 to schedule a tour.

9. Does the Fire Rescue Department inspect Child Safety Seats?

No. However, citizens may contact the Sycamore Police Department at 815-895-3435 to make arrangements to have their child seat inspected.

10. Does the department provide counseling for juvenile fire setters?

Yes. The Sycamore Fire Department has personnel that can offer assistance. For more information, call 815-895-4514 and ask for the Juvenile Fire Setters Fire Setters Program Coordinator.

11. Does the Fire Department service, recharge or dispose of old fire extinguishers?

The Sycamore Fire Department does not service or refill fire extinguishers. Professional fire extinguisher companies with the proper equipment may be found by searching the internet or phone book.

12. How do I become a firefighter?

Information about becoming a firefighter can be obtained in the Employment section of this website.

13. Why do firefighters/emergency medical personnel shop at the local grocery store?

Fire Department personnel work at the Fire Station for a 24-hour period. Due to this work schedule, they are responsible for buying their own groceries and cooking their own meals. Fire Department personnel have permission to perform brief shopping duties at City of Sycamore food establishments. During the shopping activity, they are in constant radio contact and immediately available to respond to emergency calls.

14. Why do firefighters/emergency medical personnel remain on the scene once a medical patient is moved to the back of the ambulance?

Emergency medical care is immediately initiated upon contact with a patient. Many times care is continued when the patient is moved to the ambulance so that the patient can be stabilized. The time spent in the back of the ambulance is used to administer medications, call the hospital and further stabilize injuries.

15. Why do firefighters cut holes in a roof or break windows during firefighting?

During a fire within a building, superheated air and toxic smoke are trapped within the building, making conditions even more dangerous for the occupants and firefighters. In a coordinated fashion, openings are made to the building to relieve this pressure and toxic air so that the fire attack and search and rescue crews can move quickly and safely to extinguish the fire and aid occupants. After the conditions are stabilized, the firefighters will typically place tarps on personal belongings and furniture to protect them from further damage.

16. Is it legal to use fireworks?

In the City of Sycamore it is against City Ordinance to discharge or sell fireworks, unless special criteria outlined by state law apply and the proper permitting is obtained through the City of Sycamore. Each year, many people are injured or killed by recreational fireworks. The best way to prevent these injuries and deaths is to leave the fireworks to the professionals – attend the local fireworks display. The local fireworks display is conducted by licensed professionals that undergo training and pre-show inspections to ensure safety.

17. Who do I contact with questions regarding fire prevention matters or code/permit/plan review questions?

Initial contact regarding these matters can be made to the City of Sycamore Community Development Department. Additionally, the Fire Department may be contacted to obtain further information. Questions regarding Knox Boxes can be immediately directed to the Fire Department. Questions regarding water flow calculations, flushing/testing of water service lines, or other water system issues can be directed to the City of Sycamore Water Department.

18. What is a Knox Box and how do I get an application?

A Knox Box is a case-hardened, tamper-proof steel box installed on the exterior of a building. The Fire Department is the only party with a unique key to open Knox Boxes and retrieve keys within to gain emergency access into a building. Use of a Knox Box helps prevent damage to locked doors or windows during normal operations. The City of Sycamore requires Knox Boxes in all new or remodeled commercial structures.

Commercial Knox Boxes

Commercial building owners can order Knox Boxes online. Please see the Fire Prevention page for more information. The Knox Company will not sell a product without authorization by the Fire Department to maintain the highest level of security for property owners.

Residential Knox Boxes

A Residential Knox Box is a 4" x 5" safe-like device installed over the top of a front exterior entry door. The resident provides a home entrance key, which the Fire Department places securely inside the installed Knox Box. This secure rapid entry system is designed to allow Fire Department quick access into a home in case a fire breaks out or a medical emergency occurs. 

The Sycamore Fire Department Residential Knox Box Loan Program is open only to residents of the City of Sycamore and the Sycamore Fire Protection District experiencing mobility challenges that could render them unable to open a locked door in an emergency. Limited quantities (25) of Knox Boxes are available and loaned out on a first-come, first-served basis. The City of Sycamore owns these Residential Knox Boxes, so if a participant no longer needs a borrowed Knox Box, please contact Sycamore Fire Department 815-895-4514 to remove it, so it can be reused. 

To apply for the Residential Knox-Box Loan Program or for information about purchasing your own Residential Knox-Box, please contact Deputy Fire Chief Jim Ward at 815-895-4514.

19. What are the basic requirements for a fire alarm/fire sprinkler system?

Both the City of Sycamore Community Development Department and Fire Department can answer questions regarding fire alarm/fire sprinkler systems. The City of Sycamore enforces the 2015 International Codes with local amendments.

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Police Department

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1. Where is the Sycamore Police Department?

The police department is located at 535 DeKalb Avenue, Sycamore, between Sacramento Street and Stark Avenue.

2. What are the lobby hours of the police department?

Office staff are available from 8 am until 4:30 pm. After 4:30 pm, anyone needing to speak to a police officer can use the phone located just inside the front door to contact the dispatch center.

3. How do I make a police report?

Most crime reports need to be made in person. An officer can meet you at almost any location in Sycamore. Patrol officers generally cannot leave the city limits for normal reports. You can ask to speak to an officer by phone prior to the report if you have any questions. Tips and general information can be given over the phone, by e-mail or through this website.

4. How can I get a copy of a police report?

Requests may be submitted in person at the police department located at 535 DeKalb Avenue during normal business hours.

5. How do I pay a parking ticket I received in Sycamore?

Parking tickets can be paid at the city center at 308 West State Street, Sycamore, during business hours, or by depositing the ticket with payment in the yellow boxes attached to parking meters throughout downtown. Payments can also be mailed to the Sycamore Center at 308 West State Street, Sycamore, IL 60178.

6. Where can I get an Order of Protection?

If you have been the victim of domestic violence, and have made a police report, contact the DeKalb County State’s Attorney’s office at 815-895-7164 and request assistance. Civil orders of protection can also be obtained, usually with the assistance of a private attorney.

7. Does Sycamore have an ordinance about excessive noise?

Yes. Sycamore has a noise ordinance which usually requires an officer to take a sound meter reading from the complaining person’s property. After determining the noise is above the allowable limit the officer will contact the offender and request they cease the violation. If the offender refuses to cease the violation, and the complaining person wants the offender cited, the complaining person will need to be willing to sign a complaint and, if necessary testify about the violation. A police officer cannot be the complaining person on a noise complaint. Sycamore also has an ordinance which prohibits a person from allowing a dog to bark excessively. The procedure for barking dog complaints is similar to the noise violations, except barking dog complaints do not require a sound meter reading.

8. Does the police department inspect or install child car seats?

The Sycamore police department has several officers certified to assist with the installation and inspection of child car seats. Contact the police department for more information.

9. When is curfew in Sycamore?

State law provides for a curfew of 11 pm on Sunday through Thursday and midnight on Friday and Saturday for anyone less than 17 years of age.

10. How do I give a compliment or make a complaint about an officer?

You can contact the Sycamore police department at any time and ask to speak to a supervisor.

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Real Estate Transfer Tax

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1. What is it?

The Sycamore Real Estate Transfer Tax is imposed on the buyer of real estate within the City of Sycamore.

2. Who pays it?

Payment of the tax is the responsibility of the buyer.

3. How much is it?

The tax is $5 per $1,000 of the property's full consideration price. For example, if the full consideration price is $200,000, the transfer tax would be $1,000. You can use the Transfer Tax Calculator (XLS) to determine what your tax would be.

4. What is required?

To obtain a transfer tax stamp, a copy of the sales contract or a copy of the Illinois Revenue Tax Declaration (P-TAX) form showing the full consideration price of the property is required. Additionally, one must complete the Real Estate Transfer Tax Form (PDF). In addition to accessing this form online, one can be obtained and completed in the Sycamore Finance Office in the Sycamore Center.

5. How do I know if my property is within Sycamore corporate limits?

All property with a Sycamore address is not necessarily located within the City's boundaries. If you are unsure as to whether the property is inside or outside the City, the best practice is to examine the real estate tax bill. Property within the City reflects a line allocated to "City of Sycamore" among the taxing bodies. Current tax codes that reflect that the property is located within the City of Sycamore are: 

• CO 10
• CO 11
• DK 10
• DK 11
• DK 14
• DK 15
• DK 26
• SY 07
• SY 08
• SY 50

6. When can I pay it?

The tax must be paid prior to closing on the property.

7. Where can I get it?

Transfer tax stamps are obtained in the Sycamore Finance Office in the Sycamore Center, located at:
308 West State Street
Sycamore, IL 60178

8. Are there any exemptions for Sycamore residents?

Yes. If you have been a resident within corporate limits of the City of Sycamore for 12 consecutive months prior to purchasing homestead property within the City of Sycamore, you are eligible to receive an exemption. You will need to complete the Certificate of Exemption Form (PDF), which can be done in the Sycamore Finance Office.

However, in order to receive an exemption, you will need to show proof of residency for the prior 12 months. This proof can be in the form of two utility bills (one current and one older), two bank statements, a tax bill, etc. Each item should show your name, Sycamore address, and a date.

Please note that no commercial property will qualify for a transfer tax exemption.

9. Are there any additional exemptions?

Yes. If you qualify for an exemption under the state and county transfer tax laws, you also qualify for an exemption from Sycamore’s transfer tax.

10. What happens after closing on the property?

The transfer tax stamp (or exemption stamp, if applicable) must be affixed to the deed prior to recording of the deed. The County Recorder may not record the deed if there is no stamp, unless an exemption is applicable. The stamp must be affixed in a location that is practical for County recording purposes. It cannot obscure information on the deed, cannot be placed in the County Recorder's 3-inch-by-5-inch space in the upper right-hand corner of the document, and will incur an additional fee if located anywhere within a ½-inch margin on the edge of the page. The City will provide a Recording Cover Sheet upon request for anyone desiring it.

11. What if I lose the stamp?

If a transfer tax stamp or exempt stamp is lost or stolen, it cannot be replaced. It will be necessary to purchase another stamp.

12. Can I get a refund?

If a transfer tax stamp is purchased and is returned to the City without having been canceled (defaced), because (for example) of last-minute changes in purchase price necessitating a different stamp amount, or a failed closing, a refund is possible and will be issued at the discretion of the City Treasurer.

13. Who can I contact if I have questions?

If you have any questions regarding the Sycamore transfer tax, please contact the Sycamore Finance Office at 815-895-4920.

For additional information regarding the Sycamore transfer tax, please read the Transfer Tax Procedures (PDF).

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Street Division

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1. Does the City replace sidewalks that are in need of repair?

In most cases, the maintenance of public sidewalks is the responsibility of the owner on whose property the sidewalk exists. In certain cases, the City does replace public sidewalks but such maintenance is typically completed in conjunction with a City funded street maintenance project. The City does, however, offer a Public Sidewalk Replacement Program that pays $4 per square foot toward the replacement of qualifying sidewalks. Please see the "Public Sidewalk Replacement Program" on the Home Page for additional information.

2. When will my street or alley be re-done?

The City evaluates streets annually and prioritizes which streets and alleys will be reconstructed based on the condition of the street and how much time and money is required to maintain the street in its current condition. Those streets that are in major disrepair and that require frequent repair are at the top of the list for the upcoming year's street maintenance project. The list is fluid and changes frequently depending on the severity of the winter months. The City's street maintenance project is approved by the City Council in early spring and work typically begins in May. If you have questions regarding your street or would like to report a safety concern, please contact the Public Works Department.

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Water

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1. How much water does the average person or home use?

• On average, each person uses 80-100 gallons of water per day.
• On each water bill, a typical family of four uses an average of:
  • 18,000-22,000 gallons of water
  • 25-30 units of water
    • 1 unit = 100 cubic feet, or 748 gallons
  • Typical usage of household items:
    • Toilets:  1.28-4.0+ gallons per flush
    • Showers:  2.5 gallons per minute average
    • Laundry:  14-20+ gallons per load
    • Water softeners:  35-65 gallons per recharge
    • Landscape watering, dishwashing, cooking, cleaning, drinking:  Varies

2. Do I need a water softener?

• The need for a water softener is a matter of personal preference.
  • Sycamore's water comes from deep wells and is considered very hard (>180 mg/L of mineral hardness).
  • Most softeners reduce this to a hardness of <10 mg/L.
  • Water softeners complete this process through ion exchange.  When backwashed, the calcium and magnesium (hardness) are removed as they are "exchanged" with sodium (salt) from the brine tank.

3. Where does Sycamore's water come from, and how does it get to my home?

• Wells:  The City of Sycamore utilizes five (5) groundwater wells to supply over 1.8 million gallons per day to both residential and non-residential accounts.  These wells are approximately 1,000 feet deep.  Water is pumped from deep underground, then treated immediately after it is pumped and before it enters the City's watermains.
• Towers:  Two water towers help to maintain pressure and provide emergency reserve capacity in case of a fire, watermain break, or well outage.
  • South tower capacity:  750,000 gallons
  • North tower capacity:  1,500,000 gallons
• Watermain:  There are 115 miles of watermain throughout the City.  City watermains are cast iron, ductile iron, and plastic.
• Water services:  At the point it meets a water service, water leaves the public system.  Private lines are connected to the City's mains and provide water to each residence or business.  Water services can be constructed of copper, lead, galvanized, or plastic piping.

4. How do I know what material was used for my water service line?

• Most water service lines are made from copper, lead, or galvanized pipe.
• Check the link below to see the most up-to-date water service material inventory:
  • Service Material Inventory List (PDF)

5. How does the City of Sycamore treat the water?

• Sycamore uses a Water Remediation Technology (WRT) filter system at four of the City wells to remove radium and barium to meet levels as mandated by the EPA.  These are naturally occurring compounds and consistent with water from deep wells.
• Phosphate, fluoride, and chlorine are added.
  • Phosphate does not remove iron, but it keeps it in solution to minimize discoloration.  It also coats the interior of metal pipes to prevent corrosion.
  • Fluoride is added to promote development of strong teeth.
  • Chlorine is added for disinfection.
• In 2024, the City will begin construction on a new treatment system for Well 7.  This new system will utilize hydrous manganese oxide (HMO).  This treatment involves the addition of a chemical to precipitate radium (and iron) then pass through a filter for removal.

6. Why is my water discolored?

• Water discoloration can occur for a variety of reasons: flushing of hydrants, main breaks, internal plumbing issues, galvanized plumbing, etc.
• If you are experiencing discolored water, please contact Public Works at 815-895-3545.
• Information regarding construction and flushing updates can be found on the City's website.

7. Is my water safe to drink?

• Yes, the City of Sycamore complies with all Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sampling and testing standards. The results of tests confirm that the City of Sycamore water meets or exceeds all EPA drinking water requirements and is safe for consumption. Please contact Public Works with questions at 815-895-3545.

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Water Meter Replacement

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1. Why is my water meter being replaced?

The water meters have reached the end of their useful lives. Most residential water meters in Sycamore are 10 to 15 years old. Water meters often lose accuracy as they age, resulting in incorrect billing and non-revenue water loss. The new meters have an expected 20-year battery life.

2. What is the cost to have my water meter replaced?

The water meters are being replaced at no charge to the homeowner.

3. How long will it take to replace the water meter?

Normal meter installation time is about 30 minutes, during which the water will be shut off for about 15 minutes.

4. Do I need to be home for the meter replacement?

Yes. Water meters are located inside, typically in a basement or utility area. Someone 18 years or older must be home during the appointment.

5. What is my responsibility as a homeowner?

City Code states that it is the homeowner’s responsibility to maintain the water pipes and valves within their homes.

6. What is required for replacement of the water meter?

Water Division personnel will need space around the meter to perform the work, and access to the shut-off valves.