Chicago Zoning & Permits
Zoning rules, permit requirements, and building codes for Chicago, IL. Source-cited from official municipal code.
Quick Facts
Population
2,696,555
Total Zone Types
28
Planning Department
Chicago Department of Planning and Development (DPD)
Zoning Map
Interactive online map
County
Cook County
Metro Area
Chicago-Naperville-Elgin
Chicago Zoning System
The Chicago zoning system includes 28 total zone classifications: 10 residential zones (RS-1, RS-2, RS-3, RT-3.5, RT-4, and others) and 9 commercial zones (B1-1, B1-2, B1-3, B2-1, and others), as well as 6 mixed-use zones (C1-1, C1-2, C1-3) and 4 industrial zones (M1-1, M1-2, M2-2). Chicago's zoning is governed by Title 17 of the Chicago Municipal Code, known as the Chicago Zoning Ordinance (CZO), enacted in 2004 as a major overhaul of the 1957 code. The CZO uses a hierarchical district system with numerical suffixes indicating density (e.g., RS-1 is the least dense single-family, RM-6.5 is the highest-density multifamily). Residential districts include RS (Single-Family), RT (Two-Flat/Townhouse), and RM (Multi-Unit). Chicago's flat grid street system makes lot sizes predictable — standard lots are 25 ft wide by 125 ft deep (3,125 sqft) in most neighborhoods. The city's neighborhood character varies dramatically from bungalow belts in Northwest and Southwest sides to dense greystone-lined streets in Lincoln Park and Wicker Park. The city maintains an interactive zoning map for property lookup.
View Chicago Zoning Map (interactive online map)
Building & Planning Departments
The Chicago Building Department (Chicago Department of Buildings) handles all building permit applications, inspections, and code enforcement. You can reach them by phone at (312) 744-5000 or apply online through their permit portal. Office hours: Mon-Fri 8:00am-4:30pm. For zoning questions and land use determinations, contact the Chicago Department of Planning and Development (DPD) at (312) 744-9267. Zoning information is available online. Always verify current requirements directly with the department before beginning any project, as regulations and fees may have changed since this data was last verified.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU in Chicago?
Yes. Chicago's ADU Ordinance, expanded citywide in July 2022, allows both attached ADUs (basement or attic conversions) and detached coach houses (rear-yard ADUs typically built over a garage). Owner-occupancy is required — you must live in either the primary unit or the ADU. No replacement parking is required. A building permit from the Chicago Department of Buildings is required.
What is a coach house in Chicago, and is it the same as an ADU?
Yes. In Chicago, a coach house is the traditional term for a detached ADU — typically a 1- or 2-story structure built over a rear garage, accessed from the alley. Chicago's ADU Ordinance specifically authorizes coach houses up to 1,000 sqft and 22 ft tall. They are built in the rear yard, behind the principal building. Chicago has a rich history of coach houses from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
How do I find the zoning of my Chicago property?
Use the City of Chicago Zoning Map at webapps1.chicago.gov/zoneinfo/ — enter your address to find zone designation, applicable district standards, and special overlay zones. You can also check the Chicago Zoning Ordinance (Title 17) at codelibrary.amlegal.com.
Are short-term rentals allowed in Chicago?
Yes, with a license. The Chicago Shared Housing Ordinance (effective 2016) requires a Vacation Rental License or Shared Housing Host Registration ($125/year). Properties in buildings where the condo or co-op association has voted to ban short-term rentals are prohibited. Chicago collects a 4.5% Shared Housing Surcharge plus state hotel tax.
What are the setbacks for a standard Chicago bungalow lot?
In RS-3 (the most common single-family zone for Chicago bungalows), setbacks are: 15 ft front, 2 ft side (minimum — many have 2 ft on one side and 0 on the other with a shared driveway), and 30 ft rear. Chicago's standard lot is 25 ft wide by 125 ft deep. The rear yard is typically used for detached garages accessed from the alley.
Source: Chicago Municipal Code Title 17 (Zoning Ordinance); Additional Dwelling Units Ordinance O2020-5816 as amended by O2022-1679. Last verified April 3, 2026. View source