Sustainable Development Policy

The Chicago Sustainable Development Policy (SDP) is administered by the Chicago Department of Planning and Development (DPD) to promote sustainable building methods and materials involving City-assisted construction and rehabilitation projects citywide. The SDP helps Chicago achieve wide-ranging climate and resiliency goals through a menu of options that reflect best practices. 

Created in 2004 and revised in 2017 and 2024, the SDP is a point-based system that assigns values to strategies and building certifications for projects receiving City funding and zoning approvals. The SDP promotes sustainable construction design elements that increase energy efficiency, decrease greenhouse gas emissions, improve public health, manage stormwater, promote more efficient transportation, divert waste, promote workforce development, and protect wildlife. 

Projects that are subject to the SDP may achieve compliance through either the 2024 or 2017 versions based on their approval dates by City Council or the Department of Planning and Development (if Council approval is not required). Projects approved prior to Jan. 1, 2025, may choose either SDP version. All projects approved after Jan. 1, 2025, must choose the 2024 version.

The 2024 SDP update was released in July following a period of public input on a draft version of the policy. More information regarding the 2024 SDP update is available on the FAQ page.

The SDP does not control use, density, approval processes, outreach efforts, or permit requirements that are regulated by the Zoning Ordinance, Building Code or other parts of the Chicago Municipal Code. 

DOWNLOAD THE 2024 SDP DOWNLOAD THE POLICY MATRIX