Supporting Information
10 Things Every Consumer Should Know About Auto Repair
When faced with the possibility of costly auto repair work, most consumers want to get the best deal for their money. It is equally important to know that the repair service is dependable. In Chicago, consumers have certain rights when it comes to working with an auto repair shop outlined in the Chicago Municipal Code. Chapter 4-228.
2022 Cooling Ordinance
In June 2022, the Chicago City Council adopted an ordinance requiring certain new and existing residential buildings to install air conditioning equipment in common gathering areas and make these areas available to residents as cooling centers when the outdoor heat index exceeds 80°F.
21st Ward Virtual Town Hall Meeting
21st Ward Virtual Town Hall Meeting
311 Frequently Asked Questions...
311 Frequently Asked Questions
A Guide for MOPD's Language Access Policy
MOPD's Language Access Policy
Accessible Transportation Information for People with Disabilities
Information on Accessible Transportation Information for People with Disabilities
Bill of Rights for Consumers Using Tax Preparation Services
Tax payers in Chicago will now have recourse against unscrupulous tax preparers after the City Council passed Mayor Rahm Emanuel’s Tax Preparer Ordinance
Blue Cart & Recycling Drop-off Center: Accepted Materials
List of materials that are accepted in the Chicago Blue Cart Program & Recycling Drop-off Centers.
Buddy at the Chicago Cultural Center
Public Media Institute's shop in the Chicago Cultural Center that gives Chicago's artists and small manufacturers a place to showcase and sell their goods and artwork.
Business Improvement District (BID) Program
The Special Service Area program is a mechanism to fund expanded services and programs through a localized property tax levy within contiguous industrial, commercial and residential areas.
CDPH Immunization Clinics
Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) Fast Track immunization clinics provide vaccinations at no charge for children 0 through 18 years of age.
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.
Caregiving Support Groups
The Chicago Department of Family & Support Services is mindful that throughout Chicago, an ever growing number of people are devoting themselves to the daily care of loved ones. Whether the role of caregiver comes gradually, or through a sudden crisis, caregivers need somewhere to turn. That is why the Chicago Department of Family & Support Services has expanded our Caregiver Support Program to meet the essential needs of family caregivers.
Chicago Conservation Corps' Environmental Leadership Training Program
Find out how you can become a C3 Leader.
Chicago Conservation Corps' Student Clubs
C3 Student Clubs provide a great opportunity for students.
Chicago Cultural Center
Drawn by its beauty and the fabulous free public events, hundreds of thousands of visitors come to the Chicago Cultural Center every year, making it one of the most visited attractions in Chicago.
Chicago Cultural Center Building Tours
Gaze at the world's largest Tiffany stained-glass dome, as well as beautifully ornate multi-colored mosaics, marble and molding during guided architectural tours of the Chicago Cultural Center.
Chicago Cultural Center Welcome Center and Neighborhood Cultural Spotlight Exhibitions
Check out the current Neighborhood Cultural Spotlights in the Welcome Center and then nominate your favorite neighborhood cultural asset.
Chicago Farmers Markets
ChicagoFarmers Markets sell fresh seasonal produce, flowers, prepared foods, unique Chicago-made products and rare finds – at Chicago’s longest running farmers market on Daley Plaza, the historic Maxwell Street Market and a dozen more community markets in neighborhoods across Chicago.
Chicago Heat Ordinance
The Department of Buildings enforces the Chicago Minimum Requirements for Existing Buildings, which includes the Chicago Heat Ordinance (Section 14X-8-803 of the Municipal Code). The Heat Ordinance applies to both homes and workspaces.
Chicago Jazz Festival Neighborhood Events
The Chicago Jazz Festival features free performances in neighborhood music clubs and venues.
Chicago Revealed
Chicago Revealed introduces viewers to the people and places that make Chicago what it truly is - a dynamic city with something new to discover around every corner.
Child Window Safety
Too often, children are seriously injured or killed as a result of falling from a window. There are basic steps you can take to help make sure children are protected from window falls.
Childhood Exposure to Violence (CEV)
This 5-module curriculum that focuses on building a community response to Childhood Exposure to Violence helps participants define Childhood Exposure to Violence, recognize the symptoms/behaviors a child may exhibit, and what can be done to respond appropriately when a child has been exposed to violence.
Children Services Income Guidelines
Families can access quality Head Start/Early Head Start programs that offer quality care and development with a unique supportive services component for little or no cost.
City Gallery in the Historic Water Tower
A resplendent venue showcasing the work of local photographers and artists, the City Gallery in the Historic Water Tower, is centrally located along the city's famed Magnificent Mile.
City of Chicago Christmas Tree
Chicago’s “official” Christmas tree, the 111th Annual City of Chicago Christmas Tree in Millennium Park, will shine brightly near the intersection of Michigan Ave. and Washington St. from November 22 through January 8.
City of Chicago Emerging Contaminant Study
Analysis of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals, Pharmaceuticals, and Personal Care Products
City of Chicago Informs Public of FEMA Flood Assistance Process
Chicago’s Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC), along with the Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) highlight the next steps in the flood assistance program process.
City of Chicago VAWA Emergency Transfer Plan for Residents of HUD-Funded Housing Programs
The City of Chicago, through the Department of Family and Support Services, the Department of Public Health and the Department of Planning and Development, is required by the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act (VAWA) to develop a plan for individuals who 1) live in eligible housing that is supported by funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (“HUD”) and 2) have experienced domestic violence.
Citywide 2024 Water Service Price Schedule
The water service price schedule for water billing rates.
Clean & Green
Check out the details on the City's Annual clean & Green Day of Service.
Cold Weather Pet Care
In Chicago, winter is a season of bitter cold and numbing wetness. Help your pets remain happy and healthy during the colder months by following simple guidelines.
Community Action for Domestic Violence
Recognize that domestic violence has a serious and negative impact on the quality of life in our city. It is everybody's business.
Community Outreach and Engagement
DOH works to build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders and residents throughout the city.
Community Service Centers
Community Service Centers are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday thru Friday. City residents who need assistance can drop in or schedule an appointment in advance.
Cool Chi
The City of Chicago participates in the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) community-led urban heat island mapping campaign, where volunteer resident scientists, working with the City and community-based organizations, will travel through predetermined routes in their neighborhoods in the morning, afternoon, and evening on one of the hottest days of the year with heat sensors mounted on their own cars.
DFSS News
Archived Coverage of DFSS Initiatives
Disaster Assistance Application Process
Step by Step Disaster Application Process.
Division on Domestic Violence Delegate Agency Site Locations
Division on Domestic Violence Delegate Agency services listed with site locations and contact information.
Dog Friendly Area (DFA) Frequently Asked Questions
Friendly asked questions about Dog Friendly Area (DFA)
Domestic Violence 2005 - 2013 Help Line Reports
The Chicago Department of Family and Support Services’ (DFSS) Division on Domestic Violence released the 2010 call volume data for the City’s Domestic Violence Help Line.
Domestic Violence 2009 Summit Series
The Domestic Violence Summit Series was intended as a focused follow up discussion on the Points for Engagement in the Assessment of the Current Response to Domestic Violence in Chicago.
Domestic Violence Annual Reports
Select from the system’s list below to access links to existing annual reports containing Illinois domestic violence victim information.
Domestic Violence Special Publications
ILDVDI Customized reports are typically produced once and typically reflect a “unique” exploration. Formats include, research studies, reports to community, special reports, newspaper articles, etc.
Domestic Violence and the Work Place
If your abuser is harassing or threatening you at work, you may want to think about creating a safety plan for your job. A work-place safety plan is a way for you to identify and make changes to your daily routine which may increase your physical safety and emotional well-being.
Domestic Violence and the Work Place - Employment Protections
While many victims of domestic violence fear they will be discriminated against by their employers after they disclose their situations, there are federal laws, which can provide job protection. If you believe you have been discriminated against because of domestic violence, talk with a lawyer or advocate to learn more about your legal rights and options.
Elder Abuse Information
Elder abuse affects thousands of Illinois senior citizens every year. As a result of the abuse, these victims experience severe neglect and extreme feelings of fear and loneliness. As members of the community it is our obligation to raise awareness and reach out to this often isolated group of victims.
Emergency Preparedness for Pet Owners
Necessary precautionary steps in the case of floods, fires, blizzards, terrorism.
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
Get involved in Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy programs.
Family Violence 2016 Prevention Initiative Survey Documents
The Division on Domestic Violence conducts assessments of its Family Violence Prevention Initiative (FVPI) funded programs.
Federal Priorities
Plan 2.0 is aligned with the direction of two key federal actions – the federal strategic plan to end homelessness and the passage of the HEARTH Act. In 2010, the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness (USICH) released Opening Doors, the federal strategic plan to end homelessness.
Film Festivals/Events Calendar
Chicago is the proud home of over 40 independent film festivals providing distinctive programming throughout the year.
Find a Residential Recycling Drop Off Center
Residential Recycling Drop-Off Centers—blue dumpsters specifically designated for recycling—are located throughout the city. View a list of locations below.
Food and Nutritional Information
The Chicago Department of Public Health encourages everyone to include healthy foods from all food groups to "Get Your Plate in Shape."
Free Tax Help Available to Lower Income Chicago Residents
As Tax season winds down, don’t forget to take advantage of the City's free tax assistance services.
General Facts About Domestic Violence
Some general facts to know about Domestic Violence.
Healing Arts Chicago
The Department of Cultural Affairs & Special Events and the Chicago Department of Public Health announce Healing Arts Chicago, a new program offering free arts services to support mental health and wellness at the City’s Mental Health Centers year-round.
Healthy Chicago Podcast
The Healthy Chicago Podcast, a discussion between city medical professionals and weekly guests about topics affecting public health in the city of Chicago and the world.
Homeward Bound Animal Placement Program
Transferring animals to other State Licensed animal shelters or breed rescue groups often provides them a much better chance of being adopted than remaining at our shelter. Through the Homeward Bound Program, nearly 7,000 animals are transferred out to partnering shelters each year!
How to Prepare Your Family For an Emergency
Family emergency planning can be the key to surviving an emergency. That's why it's important to talk to your family to prepare them for various emergencies.
Human Service Delivery
Human Service Delivery is about people and partners.
IDHS National Human Trafficking
The Illinois Department of Human Services introduces; Human Trafficking Protocol for Victims of slavery and human trafficking are protected under the United States and Illinois law
Illinois Disaster Assistance Call(1-800)(ENG)
For Illinois homeowners, renters and business owners. If you sustained losses or damage you may be eligible for disaster aid
In-Home Assistive Devices
MOPD provides information and referrals to Chicago residents with personal devices or equipment that will assist them to become more independent in their home.
Individual, Family and Community Preparedness
There is never too much preparedness when it means saving a LIFE! You can cope with disaster by preparing in advance and by working with your family as a team. Preparation should include: getting informed (including a checklist), making a plan, assembling, and maintaining your plan and kit.
Individualized Needs Assessment
Individualized Needs Assessment empowers an individual with skills, education, motivation and support services needed to accomplish a healthy, more independent lifestyle.
Influenza Home
Flu is a contagious respiratory disease that can lead to serious illness, hospitalization, or even death. Most people with the flu have mild illness and do not need medical care or antiviral drugs. Review these materials for recommendations on influenza treatment, testing, and vaccination.
Information for Children Exposed to Domestic Violence
Exposure to Domestic Violence, either experienced directly or witnessed between caregivers can have a detrimental effect on children.
Information for Concerned Friends & Family Members
Every year, millions of domestic violence victims suffer from the horrors of abuse alone. Having been isolated by their abusers from friends and family, many are disconnected from sources of support, strength and safety. By reaching out to your friend or family member and breaking the silence, you can make a difference.
Information for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender
It is important that as victims, survivors, family members, friends, religious leaders, employers, and community residents we recognize and address the needs of LGBT victims of domestic violence.
Information for Young Adults
Relationship violence occurs when one partner attempts to maintain power and control over the other. Research suggests that thousands of young adults are physically, emotionally and sexually abused by their dating partners every year.
Innovative Programs for Underserved Populations Locations
Innovative programs provide employment-related services tailored to the needs of underserved populations such as immigrants, veterans, persons with disabilities, the homeless, non-custodial parents, persons with chemical dependencies and persons with criminal backgrounds.
Job Resources for Youth
List of Job Resources for Youth
Juneteenth Events Taking Place City-Wide
A list of events celebrating Juneteenth throughout Chicago.
LMO - 2 Reports
These reports detail the efforts that the Chicago Department of Water Management has undertaken to conserve and wisely manage our natural water resources.
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.
Maxwell Street Market
Visitors to the Maxwell Street Market will experience an eclectic mix of foods and finds—including handmade crafts, resale housewares, clothing, and much more.
McCormick Tribune Ice Rink
Ice skating at the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Millennium Park returns November 15 through February 2 (weather permitting).
Medical Reserve Corps
The national Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) is a volunteer group of both medical and non-medical professionals, organized on a local basis to help provide needed services to their communities during emergencies and disasters.
Microchip Chicago
Chicago Animal Care and Control strongly recommends that all pet owners microchip and obtain a collar and tag for your pets. Cats that get lost are 9 times more likely to be reunited to their home if they arrive at a shelter with a collar and tag or microchip. Dogs are 5 times more likely to be returned home to their owner if they have a collar and tag or microchip. It is also the law for all dogs to have a city dog license. If your pet gets lost and is found by our shelter we will research the tag and microchip information and contact you as soon as possible to let you know your pet is with us.
Millennium Park
Discover a state-of-the-art collection of architecture, landscape design and art that provide the backdrop for hundreds of free cultural programs including concerts, exhibitions, tours, and family activities. In Millennium Park, you’ll find a new kind of town square – a lively, spectacular gathering spot located in the heart of the city and a destination for Chicagoans and visitors alike.
Millennium Park Holiday Activities
This year, holiday traditions return to Millennium Park (201 E. Randolph St.) — made possible by the Millennium Park Foundation with generous support from the Pritzker Foundation. The Park is open daily, 8am–9pm.
Millennium Park Holiday Sing-Along
The Millennium Park Holiday Sing-Along invites Chicagoans and visitors to sing out and celebrate Chicago’s diverse holiday traditions at 6pm on Fridays between December 6 and December 20.
Millennium Park Residency Program
2024 organizations-in-residence include: Chicago Black Dance Legacy Project, Vocalo, Collaboraction Theatre with Teatro Vista, Experimental Sound Studio, and Old Town School of Folk Music.
Millennium Park Summer Film Series
This summer, DCASE is pleased to present the Millennium Park Summer Film Series on Tuesdays from July 16 through August 20. Films start at 6:30pm.
Mpox Home
The CDPH Mpox landing page, featuring the latest mpox data and information about mpox testing, prevention, vaccination, and treatment.
Mpox Symptoms & Treatment
CDPH Mpox testing and treatment, with information on the signs and symptoms of mpox, mpox testing availability, isolation guidance, and mpox treatment.
Mpox Vaccine
The CDPH Mpox vaccination page, featuring information about the Jynneos mpox vaccine, mpox vaccine eligibility, vaccination cost, and where to find an mpox vaccine near you.
OVP - About Us
The Office of Violence Prevention and Behavioral Health (OVPBH) works to reduce the likelihood of violence related injury and death and support trauma recovery and healing across Chicago communities.
Other Ways To Help
Want to open your home to an animal in need? Though Chicago Animal Care & Control does not have a foster program, we can put you in contact with local organizations that do.
Parades
Find out when your favorite parade is taking place in Chicago.
Partnerships To Reduce Homelessness
DFSS strives to align our core funding areas and system, policy, and planning initiatives with Plan 2.0 and federal strategic priorities. As a City department, DFSS has an additional responsibility to work with advocates, elected officials and concerned residents when they concerns about homelessness or homeless residents that they encounter.
Personal Assistance Programs
The Personal Assistance Program allows qualified individuals with disabilities who live in the city of Chicago and are under the age of 60 to receive in-home services.
Pet Responsibility Portal
Pet ownership is a very rewarding privilege that requires a high level of responsibility and investment on the animal owner's behalf.
Porch and Deck Safety
Safety information for residential porches and decks
Produce Mobiles Site Listing and Schedules
Produce Mobiles organizations service all clients regardless of where they live. Hours of operation are from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m.
Protecting Tenants in Foreclosed Rental Property Ordinance (PTFRPO)
Information about the Protecting Tenants in Foreclosed Rental Property Ordinance.
Research, Reports and Data Resources
The following links represent a selection of resources that provide research and analysis as well as data that can be manipulated and is often downloadable, searchable, and/or customizable.
Roof-Top Water Tank
Roof top water tanks are regulated by the Department of Buildings.
Safe Havens: Supervised Visits & Safe Exchange Grant Program
As part of their participation as a demonstration site for the Safe Havens Supervised Visitation and Safe Exchange Program, three Chicago visitation centers and their collaborative partner, the Mayor’s Office on Domestic Violence, explored how the current design, processes, and procedures of visitation and exchange centers account for aspects of culture.
Safety Planning
The most dangerous time for many victims of domestic violence is when they are thinking about or actively trying to end the relationship. A personal safety plan is a way for you to identify strategies to protect yourself during this dangerous time.
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.
Summary of Youth Services
Here is some background information on the services provided by the Chicago Department of Family and Support Services Youth Services Division:
Support Chicago's 100K Homes Fund
The goal of Chicago Registry Week is to create a by-name registry of people living on our streets and shelters, so we can prioritize those who have been out there the longest and who are the most vulnerable.
Support Groups for Older Relatives Raising Children
The Chicago Department of Family & Support Services is mindful that throughout Chicago, an ever growing number of people are devoting themselves to the daily care of loved ones. Whether the role of caregiver comes gradually, or through a sudden crisis, caregivers need somewhere to turn. That is why the Chicago Department of Family & Support Services has expanded our Caregiver Support Program to meet the essential needs of family caregivers.
Teen Dating Violence Prevention
The Chicago Department of Public Health Office of Violence Prevention is working to raise awareness about Teen Dating Violence (TDV).
Trauma-Informed Centers of Care (TICC) Network Dashboard
The Trauma-Informed Centers of Care (TICC) initiative, launched in October 2020, operates and funds services provided by 5 CDPH mental health clinics and a robust network of mental health safety net providers. The TICC initiative mobilizes diverse mental health providers to expand low-barrier, trauma-informed, and integrative outpatient mental health services to Chicagoans regardless of ability to pay, immigration status, or health insurance. Providers include Community Mental Health Centers (CMHCs), Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), and Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) that receive funds to implement service delivery models that expand allowable mental health service types in community areas of focus.
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.
Vending Machine PIN Request Form and Information
The Chicago Department of Public Health Harm Reduction vending machines offer harm reduction supplies at no cost, but you must have a PIN code to access these items. Simply follow the steps below to gain access to items in the machine.
Volunteer at CACC
Animal Care & Control welcomes volunteers to assist in the socialization and adoption of animals housed at Animal Care & Control.
Water Quality Results and Reports
The results and reports about the quality of Chicago drinking water.
What Can I Do to Conserve and Manage Water?
Chicago was built in this very location because of its access to water. Lake Michigan and the other Great Lakes hold one-fifth of the Earth's fresh water.
What is Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence occurs when one partner uses physical, emotional, sexual and/or financial abuse to maintain power and control over the other.
What is Single Stream Recycling
Single stream recycling refers to a system in which all recyclables are mixed together in a collection truck, instead of being sorted by material type (i.e. newspaper, plastic, glass, aluminum, etc.) by the resident.
What is a Public Health Emergency?
A public health emergency is any adverse event (natural or man-made) that compromises the health of the population and has the potential to cause widespread illness
Who is the CCHR?
The Commission on Human Relations promotes appreciation of Chicago's diversity and works to eliminate prejudice and discrimination. Commissioners, advisory councils, and staff conduct pro-active programs of education, intervention, and constituency building to discourage bigotry and bring people from different groups together.
Zero Waste Chicago
Explore the following efforts to support the City's long term goal of achieving zero waste.