What to Know About Chicago’s ADU Ordinance Reversal
As of november 2021, bldg projects has the most accessory dwelling unit pre-approval applications in the city of chicago. our client was the first to receive an ADU building permit in the city.
For the first time since 1957, the City of Chicago has reversed their ban on Coach Houses and Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). Although the Ordinance officially passed in December 2020, building permits have started to be issued around May 2021.
Common examples of ADUs are new or existing coach houses, carriage houses, basement build-outs, rear additions, attic conversions or liveable spaces above a garage. The current Ordinance is a pilot program that will only allow for ADUs within five specific areas within city limits under residential Zoning Districts of RS-2, RS-3 RT, or RM.
For ADUs within the South, West, and Southeast zones, the substitute Ordinance will set a cap of two ADU permits per block per year. Buildings with three units or fewer must be owner-occupied. This Pilot Program will last for a three-year period. The Department of Housing (DOH) and the Department of Planning and Development (DPD) will then make recommendations based on ADU activity for a more permanent citywide policy.
*Example of a two-story ADU design, images copyright BLDG PROJ
The current ADU areas include:
North zone covering parts of the West Ridge, Edgewater, Uptown, Lake View, North Center, and Lincoln Square community areas
Northwest zone covering parts of the Albany Park, Irving Park, Avondale, Hermosa, Logan Square, West Town, Near West Side, and East Garfield Park community areas
West zone covering parts of the East Garfield Park, West Garfield Park, North Lawndale, and South Lawndale (Little Village) community areas
South zone covering parts of the Ashburn, Auburn Gresham, West Lawn, Chicago Lawn, Washington Heights, Roseland, Chatham, Greater Grand Crossing, Englewood, West Englewood, Washington Park, and Woodlawn community areas
Southeast zone covering parts of the South Chicago, East Side, South Deering, and Hegewisch community areas
BLDG PROJECTS has the experience to help with the necessary steps to start the ADU process. From initial research, to architectural plans and building permits, to design/renders and construction materials, we are ready to oversee the ADU process. Contact us today and learn more about adding an accessory dwelling unit to your residence. Contact BLDG PROJECTS for more information about different ADU possibilities and designs in Chicago.
Looking for more information for ADU’s in Chicago? Check out the links below.
