RS-1 Zone in Chicago, IL
RS-1 zoning district rules in Chicago, IL. Permitted uses, setbacks, height limits, and lot coverage requirements.
The RS-1 zone in Chicago, IL is a residential district (Suburban Residential). Lower-density residential with larger setbacks and lot sizes than standard residential zones. Common in outer suburban areas and early-generation subdivisions. This zone requires a 20 ft front setback, 5 ft side setback, and 30 ft rear setback. Maximum building height is 30 feet (2 stories). Maximum lot coverage is 50%.
Common Permitted Uses
- Single-family homes
Lower-density residential with larger setbacks and lot sizes than standard residential zones. Common in outer suburban areas and early-generation subdivisions.
Setback Requirements
| Setback Type | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Front Setback | 20 feet |
| Side Setback | 5 feet |
| Rear Setback | 30 feet |
Chicago Municipal Code Title 17. RS-1 is least dense single-family — large lots.
Height Limits
- Max Height
- 30 feet
- Max Stories
- 2
Chicago Municipal Code Title 17.
Lot Coverage
- Max Coverage
- 50%
Chicago Municipal Code Title 17.
Parking Requirements
Single-family: 2 spaces per dwelling unit for single-family homes in RS districts. Typically garage required or space paved in rear yard. Chicago Municipal Code Title 17. Multi-family: 1–1.5 spaces per unit depending on district and unit size. Reduced requirements within 600 ft of L train stations. Chicago Municipal Code Section 17-10-0200.
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