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Closing Letters and Zoning Certificates
CLOSING LETTERS
A Closing letter is required for any transfer of real estate from one entity to another, regardless if the transfer is through a sale, bank, a gift, marriage, divorce, inheritance or a quit claim deed. Without the closing letter, internally, the City will not have the accurate ownership for the real estate property. Closing Letters was a process that began in January 2014 by an adopted City Ordinance. Therefore, any sale on or after is subject to a closing letter.
A Zoning Certificate application is needed in addition to the closing letter, for the following:
- 3 residential units or more
- Commercial and residential combination
- More details below*
Both applications may be submitted by any of the following parties:
Buyer or Seller, Previous owner or new owner, Buyers’ or sellers’ Attorney, Buyers’ or sellers’ Real Estate Agent, or a property representative.
As long as the City receives the application, with a minimum of 10 business days to complete. A Payoff statement will be completed and sent to requester via e-mail, which shall set forth all fees and charges owed to the City of Waukegan. Please note, there is no expedite service or fee.
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Closing Letters (PDF)
Prior to closing on any real estate in Waukegan, the seller, buyer, or their agent shall obtain from the City a Closing Letter, which shall set forth all fees and charges due and owing the City.
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Zoning Certificates (PDF)
Prior to entering into an agreement or contract to sell any property used for residential purposes and consisting of three or more apartments/rooming units, OR a combination of apartments and commercial/office space, the owner shall obtain from the City a Zoning Certificate. Said Zoning Certificate shall show the current zoning of the property, its authorized use, and its conforming, legal nonconforming, or illegal nonconforming status. The Zoning Certificate is required at all closings on the types of residential units aforementioned.
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For Additional Questions..
...concerning Closing Letters or Zoning Certificates, please contact Licensing and Collections at (847) 599-2505 or at closinggroup@waukeganil.gov. Do not contact the Planning and Zoning Department.