Swimming Pool Permitting Process

The Building Department has issued a great deal of pool permits this year and they still receive many calls regarding the process.  If you are interested in installing/ replacing an above-ground, in-ground or temporary pool on your property, please see the process below.  As always, you can reach out to 708-444-4817 with any questions.

It is important to note that any pool with a depth of 24 inches or more requires a building permit and a fence around the yard or pool itself.  If you have a fence around your property, the gates will need to be self-latching and self-closing.
Even if you are simply replacing an existing pool, a permit is still required.

1. Complete the swimming pool permit.  
2. Find your plat of survey and draw the pool on the survey with measurements from the pool to each property line/ structure.  If you cannot find your plat of survey, call us to see if we have one in our historical file.  
3. Obtain a copy of the contract you have with the pool installer. 
4. Spray paint the proposed pool area in your backyard. 
5. Call JULIE by dialing 811 or place a ticket online. 
6. After submitting the above items to the Building Department via email (clarson@oak-forest.org or mpeters@oak-forest.org) and JULIE has come out and sprayed/ flagged for utilities, please call 708-444-4817 for a pre-inspection. 
7. After the inspector approves the placement of your pool and your contractors are fully registered (you will need to include the name of an electrician on the application), we will issue the permit and request payment.  A final inspection will be required after the electrical work is completed.  The pool should NOT be used before a final inspection is approved for safety reasons.

Please review the Swimming Pool Guide for more details.

I Am An American Day Parade

The Oak Forest Veterans Commission will once again host the I Am An American Day Parade on Sunday, September 5th at 11:00 am on Central Avenue.

Local schools, churches, businesses, and community groups are invited to show their pride in being Americans by taking part in the parade.  Houses along Central are encouraged to decorate their houses and fences.

Registration forms are now available!  We hope you will join us by decorating your bikes, wagons, scooters, etc. for this family event on Sunday, September 5. 

City of Oak Forest is Hiring!

The City of Oak Forest is looking to fill the following positions:

Communications Coordinator

The Communications Coordinator is responsible for the dissemination of public information to the community through marketing services and social media programs to residents, businesses and the general public.  The Coordinator also plans and markets special events of the City.  The position receives general administrative direction from the Economic and Community Development Director, City Administrator, and Mayor.

Economic & Community Development Director

The Economic and Community Development Director plans, organizes, directs, and integrates the City's Building, Planning, Communications, and Economic and Community Development Divisions.  This is a highly responsible management position involving technical work.  The incumbent in this class is responsible for policy development, program planning, budget management, administration, and operational direction of the Economic and Community Development Department functions in addition to accomplishing department objectives and goals within guidelines established by the City Administrator.

Public Works Assistant Director

The Public Works Assistant Director is an administrative position that is under the direction of the Director of Public Works.  The primary focus is on construction engineering in both the Public Works and Building Departments.  Secondary duties include assisting in department operations and project development; provides supervises personnel performing design/inspection and surveying. 

Part Time Firefighter / Paramedics