Supporting Information
2009 Chicago Waste Characterization Study and Waste Diversion Study Results
In 2009, the City of Chicago, Department of Environment contracted with CDM to perform a Waste Characterization Study and a Waste Diversion Study (the Studies). The Waste Characterization Study details the quantity, sources and composition of the city’s waste stream. The Waste Diversion Study measures the city’s current diversion rate and estimated our maximum reasonably achievable diversion rate.
A Permit Overview
A Permit Overview
Administrative Adjustments
Administrative adjustments are intended to provide a streamlined approval procedure for minor modifications of selected zoning standards.
Air and Natural Resources
Chicago is home to vibrant urban forests, prairies, and wetlands. Through continuous restoration, outreach, and research efforts, the city prioritizes protection of these natural areas.
Alternative Code Approval Request (ACAR) Process
The Alternative Code Approval Request (ACAR) process provides a uniform procedure for State-licensed design professionals and city-licensed or registered contractors and trade professionals to request project-specific approvals explicitly required by the Chicago Construction Codes or project-specific modifications of code requirements. In limited cases, building owners may also submit such requests.
Apprentice Crane Operator License
Important information about City of Chicago apprentice crane operator licenses
Apprentice Plumber License
Important information about City of Chicago apprentice plumber licenses
Basics of the 2019 Chicago Construction Codes - July 2020
Materials for Basics of the 2019 Chicago Construction Codes Training Program, July 24, 2020
Basics of the 2019 Chicago Construction Codes - October 2020
Materials for Basics of the 2019 Chicago Construction Codes Training Program, October 15, 2020
Blocking Rainwater and Preventing Sewer Backup
Information on Blocking Rainwater and Preventing Sewer Backup
Board-up Company (Regulated Business) License
Important information about City of Chicago board-up company licenses, a type of regulated business license
Boiler Inspections
The Boiler Inspection Bureau makes periodic inspections of boilers and unfired pressure vessels at all apartment buildings where the boiler heats four or more apartments, commercial buildings, schools, churches, hospitals, nursing homes, etc.
Brownfield Funding Opportunities
The Department of Fleet & Facility Management does not have funding available for brownfield redevelopment for private or not-for-profit entities; however, grant and loan funds are available from U.S. EPA and Illinois EPA.
Building Permit Inspection Videos
A series of videos to show residents and business owners what an inspection looks like.
Carbon Monoxide Alarms for Your Home
Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that can kill you. Carbon monoxide alarms help to protect you and your family from this invisible threat. Learn more about carbon monoxide alarms for your home.
Central Area Plan
The Central Area Plan is a guide for continued economic success, physical growth, and environmental sustainability in downtown Chicago. Approved by the Chicago Plan Commission in 2003, it's the first plan for downtown produced by the City since 1958.
Certificate of Zoning Compliance
A Certificate of Zoning Compliance certifies the number of residential dwelling units at the property that are legal under the Chicago Zoning Ordinance.
Certificates of Occupancy
A Certificate of Occupancy is issued by the Department of Buildings to certify that residential buildings with 4 or more units and larger non-residential buildings conform to the requirements of the Chicago Building Code.
Certified Plan Corrections
To allow for a shorter, simpler and more efficient building permit process, all Standard Plan Review building permit applications must use the Certified Plan Corrections program to address most types of plan review corrections issued by the Department of Buildings after a full review.
Chicago Energy Transformation Code
The 2022 Chicago Energy Transformation Code is based on the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code. All plan-based building permit applications must be accompanied by a compliance statement, prepared by a licensed design professional, documenting how applicable energy conservation requirements are met.
Chicago Landmark Designation: Marina City
The Commission on Chicago Landmarks voted in favor of a final recommendation to City Council that Marina City be designated as a Chicago Landmark.
Chicago Landscape Ordinance FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions about the Chicago Landscape Ordinance.
City Hall's Rooftop Garden
Chicago’s most famous rooftop garden sits atop City Hall, an 11-story office building in the Loop. City Hall and the adjacent Cook County building appear to most people as one building spanning a city block bounded by LaSalle, Randolph, Clark and Washington streets.
Committee on Standards and Tests
This committee of building industry technical professional and City staff meets once a month to review the suitability of new systems and methods of construction, new types of equipment, or new combinations of materials not currently permitted or recognized by the Code.
Community and Strategic Plans
Information on Community and Strategic Plans
Conservation Inspection
The Division of Building Inspections, more commonly known as "Conservation", is charged with enforcing the Chicago Building Code as it relates to the City's existing housing stock.
Construction Equipment Inspections
The Construction Equipment Bureau conducts Permit, Licensing and Complaint Inspections. Our objectives are to safeguard the public's health, safety and well being, by holding the construction contractor and machinery supplier to the highest standards in the construction industry.
Construction and Demolition Debris Recycling
The Department of Public Health promotes the responsible separation and recycling of construction and demolition (C&D) debris to help contractors and property owners save on costly disposal fees while protecting the environment.
Crane Operator License
Important information about City of Chicago crane operator licenses
Demolition Delay
The Demolition-Delay Ordinance, adopted by City Council in 2003, establishes a hold of up to 90 days in the issuance of any demolition permit for certain historic buildings in order that the Department of Zoning and Land Use Planning can explore options, as appropriate, to preserve the building, including but not limited to landmark designation.
Demolition Delay Hold List (2014)
See the list for Demolition Delay Hold for the year 2014
Demolition Delay Hold List (2015)
See the list for Demolition Delay Hold for 2015
Demolition Delay Hold List (2016)
See the list for Demolition Delay Hold for 2016
Demolition Delay Hold List (2017)
See the list for Demolition Delay Hold for 2017
Demolition Delay Hold List (2018)
See the list for Demolition Delay Hold for 2018
Demolition Delay Hold List (2019)
See the list for Demolition Delay Hold for 2019
Demolition Delay Hold List (2022)
See the list for Demolition Delay Hold for the year 2022
Demolition Delay Hold List (2023)
See the list for Demolition Delay Hold for the year 2023
Development Manual for Plan Commission Projects
Guide to the application process for projects requiring Chicago Plan Commission review.
Disconnect Your Downspout
A Guide to Downspout Disconnection
Doing Our Share for Cleaner Air: Idling Reduction
Information Regarding Cleaner Air through Idling Reduction
Downspouts, Rain Barrels and Cisterns
Traditionally, roof runoff in Chicago has been routed via downspouts directly into the sewer system. However, the City of Chicago encourages the careful disconnection of downspouts so that roof runoff can flow directly into vegetated areas. Please see various options on this page.
Drain Layer Contractor License
Important information about City of Chicago drain layer contractor licenses
Electrical Contractor License
Important information about City of Chicago electrical contractor licenses
Elevator Mechanic Contractor License
Important information about City of Chicago elevator mechanic contractor licenses
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
Get involved in Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy programs.
Environmental Rules and Regulations
CDPH enforces the Rules and Regulations in cooperation with other City departments where applicable
Focal Point Community Campus
The Chicago Southwest Development Corporation (CSDC) is proposing to develop the mixed-use Focal Point Community Campus on approximately 30 acres of land at the southwest corner of West 31st Street and South Kedzie Avenue in the Little Village neighborhood.
General Contractor License
Important information about City of Chicago general contractor licenses
General Contractors License
Information on General Contractors License
Harbor Permit Review Process
CDOT has the responsibility to review all permits requested within 40 feet of City waterways.
Instructions for Commercial Driveway Permit Application – this should be a link on the Driveway permits
Home Repair (Regulated Business) License
Important information about City of Chicago home repair licenses, a type of regulated business license
Illinois-licensed Private Alarm Contractors
Important information about how Illinois-licensed private alarm contractors and private alarm contractor agencies can apply for (or be listed on) permits in the City of Chicago
Information for Legal Assistance
The Illinois Domestic Violence Act (IDVA) provides strong legal help for victims of domestic violence within an Order of Protection (OP).
Information on the Demolition Process
The Department of Buildings' Demolition Bureau responds to complaints generated by the 311 system reported by residents, community groups, Aldermanic offices, as well as the Chicago Police Department. The bureau responds to complaints of vacant and open buildings.
Investigation of Discrimination Complaints
The Commission on Human Relations receives, investigates, and rules on discrimination complaints filed under the Chicago Human Rights Ordinance and Chicago Fair Housing Ordinance.
Landscape Ordinance
The City of Chicago's Landscape Ordinance requires landscape features to be incorporated into all new or substantially renovated business, commercial buildings and large residential buildings.
Low-Cost Education and Weatherization Program
The Low-Cost Weatherization and Education Program (LCWEP) aims to prepare, educate and train Chicago residents in low cost weatherization techniques. C3 volunteers are trained in low-cost home weatherization techniques. Volunteers then train their neighbors and distribute and install weatherization kits.
Mason Contractor License
Important information about City of Chicago mason contractor licenses
Milwaukee Avenue Corridor Plan
Find information about the Milwaukee Avenue Corridor Plan.
Milwaukee/Lawrence Corridor Study
The goal of the Milwaukee/Lawrence Corridor Study is to identify the means to strengthen and enhance Downtown Jefferson Park through preservation, renovation, and redevelopment.
Modernizing Chicago's Construction Codes
The City of Chicago is in the middle of a multi-year effort to realign Chicago’s construction codes, based on widely-used model construction codes, while maintaining longstanding requirements that are well-adapted to local conditions. The current effort began in 2015 and is planned for completion in 2023.
Near Northwest Side Plan
he Near Northwest Side Plan addresses ongoing changes to the Fulton River District, Eckhart Park, Noble Square, East Village and Ukrainian Village neighborhoods.
Near South Community Plan
The "Near South Community Plan" serves as a guide to future development of the South Loop and Near South communities by recommending future land use, open space and transportation improvements.
Near West Side Plan
The Near West Side Plan covers an 88-block area bounded by the Kennedy and Eisenhower expressways, Lake Street and Ashland Avenue.
Neighborhood Opportunity Bonus: Leveraging Downtown Zoning to Foster Neighborhood Development and Central Area Growth
Updates to the Chicago zoning code's downtown floor area bonus system and downtown zoning district geography were approved by City Council in May 2016. Coordinated as the Neighborhood Opportunity Bonus, the changes simplify and update the downtown floor area bonus system; accommodate ongoing central area growth through an expanded downtown zoning district; and provide new funding sources to encourage commercial development in neighborhoods lacking private investment.
North Branch Framework Plan, Design Guidelines and Implementation
Land use framework plan and design guidelines for the North Branch Industrial Corridor.
Office of the Zoning Administrator
Information for sending correspondence to the Office of the Zoning Administrator
Older Code Interpretations and Memos
Building code clarifications, interpretations and memoranda issued in 2017 and earlier. For current guidance, please visit the building code interpretation page.
Ordinance, Publications and Additional Chicago Landmark Information
A list of landmark-related publications by Commission on Chicago Landmarks, including the Landmarks Ordinance, Permit Review schedule and guidelines, and the "U.S. Secretary of the Interior Standards for Rehabilitation of Historic Buildings."
Permeable Paving
Permeable paving refers to paving materials – typically concrete, stone or plastic – that promote absorption of rain and snowmelt.
Plan Examination
The Department of Planning and Development reviews building permit applications to ensure plans are in compliance with the Chicago Zoning Ordinance.
Plumber License
Important information about City of Chicago plumber licenses
Plumbing Contractor License
Important information about City of Chicago plumbing contractor licenses
Porch and Deck Safety
Safety information for residential porches and decks
Pre-2019 Chicago Building Code
Reference copies of Title 13 and Title 15 of the Municipal Code as of July 31, 2020
Requirements for Electric Vehicle Readiness
A summary of requirements related to electric vehicle readiness when obtaining a building permit
Residential Real Estate Developer (Regulated Business) License
Important information about City of Chicago residential real estate developer licenses, a type of regulated business license
Resolution to Amend the Rules and Regulations of the Commission on Chicago Landmarks
Resolution to Amend the Rules and Regulations of the Commission on Chicago Landmarks information.
Revision Permits
Requirements for permitting a revision after a building permit has been issued.
Roof-Top Water Tank
Roof top water tanks are regulated by the Department of Buildings.
Sandblasting, Grinding, and Chemical Washing
A permit is required for sandblasting, grinding, or chemical washing of any building, facility, statue, or other architectural surface. This permit, called an Architectural Surface Cleaning Permit, is issued by the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) and is separate from any construction or renovation permit issued by the Department of Buildings.
Scaffolding Information
Scaffolding Information
Self-Certification Training Program - 2019
Materials for Self-Certification Professional Training Program, December 2-4, 2019
Smoke Alarms for Your Home
Smoke alarms help to keep you safe from fire at home. When there is a fire, smoke spreads fast. Smoke alarms provide an early warning. Learn more about smoke alarms for your home.
Structural Peer Review Program
The Structural Peer Review Program is designed to expedite the permit process by reducing the time and effort required for conventional structural plan examination by Department of Buildings personnel.
Supervising Electrician License
Important information about City of Chicago supervising electrician licenses
Supervising Elevator Mechanic License
Important information about City of Chicago supervising elevator mechanic licenses
Temporary Outdoor Stage Permitting Procedures
A summary of permitting procedures and requirements for stages that will be temporary (installed at the same location for 180 days or less)
Temporary Tent Permitting Procedures
A summary of permitting procedures and requirements for tents that will be temporary (installed at the same location for 180 days or less)
Trade License Renewal Instructions
Online license renewal instructions for supervising electricians, electrical contractors, mason contractors, plumber's apprentices, plumbers, and plumbing contractors.
Upper Kitchen Cabinetry Equivalent Facilitation Letter (2017-2019)
MOPD’s Accessibility Compliance Unit has made the following determination of equivalent facilitation. Please see page for information.
Vacant Building De-Registration Process
City of Chicago Vacant Building De-Registration Process
ZBA Resolutions - 1982-Present
An archive of decisions made by the Zoning Board of Appeals of the Department of Planning and Development from 1982 to the present.
Zero Waste Chicago
Explore the following efforts to support the City's long term goal of achieving zero waste.
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals reviews land use issues that pertain to the Chicago Zoning Ordinance, including proposed variations from the zoning code, special uses that require review to determine compatibility with adjacent properties, and appeals of decisions made by the Zoning Administrator.
Zoning Map Amendments
The offices of the Zoning Administrator and the Commissioner of the Department of Planning and Development receive and review applications for zoning amendments.