Opening a Business in Swansea

Opening your Business in Swansea: 

As a new business owner, you are encouraged to contact the Building & Zoning Department early in your decision making process. The department is here to answer any questions you may have.

If you are looking to relocate to the Village of Swansea, please contact us for a list of available sites!

1.   Contact Building and Zoning Department: 

• Call (618) 234-0044 or visit them at 1444 Boul Avenue, Swansea, Illinois 62226 to get approval

2. Approval Process:

• Some approvals come directly from the department.

• Others need approval from the Planning and Zoning Board and Village Board of Trustees

• Planning and Zoning Board meets monthly on the second Tuesday at 6:00 p.m.

• Village Board of Trustees meets on the first and third Mondays at 7:00 p.m.

3. Premise Inspection:

• Schedule an inspection with Building and Zoning Department and Swansea Fire Department.

• Inspection costs $50 (or $60 for spaces over 5000 square feet)

• You might need construction or repairs to meet codes. The inspector will provide a report and might require permits

Click here for permit application.

Click here for fee chart (PDF)

4. Permits:

• Minor modifications need $50 permits each for building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical

• A zoning fee of $35 may be required

• Fees for larger modifications depend on the area changed

5. Sign Permit:

• Obtain a sign permit from the Building and Zoning Department before installing any exterior signs
• The cost of a sign permit is $50

 “Sign Permit Application Form”

6. Annual Registration:

• Every March, a business registration is form is required to be filled out to register your business

• Update ownership and contact info if changes are needed

• Registration costs $35 and must be submitted with payment by April 30th

7. Incentive Programs:

• Assistance programs covering land acquisition, site prep, utilities, and more
• 50% reimbursement (up to $6,000) for façade and sign improvements for existing businesses
• Design assistance (up to $3,000) for façade improvements
• Tax Increment Finance Districts provide similar assistance under state law