What are the additional dwelling units in Chicago?
What are the additional dwelling units in Chicago?
The Additional Dwelling Units (ADU) Ordinance, approved by the Chicago City Council in December 2020, expands housing access across Chicago by allowing ADUs in attics, basements, and accessory buildings. Common names for these type of housing units include coach houses, backyard houses and in-law apartments.
What are the legal requirements for basement apartments in Chicago?
A Chicago basement apartment can extend to any depth below the floor grade as long as the space has sufficient protection from leakage. Floors and walls must be impervious to water penetration from both surface and underground water.
Do you need a permit for a basement conversion?
You may need to obtain a permit for the de-conversion of basement or attic units. If you know of or suspect an illegal conversion in your neighborhood, you may contact 311, who will route your request to the appropriate City department (s) for inspection and enforcement action.
Is it illegal to have a basement apartment?
For example, say the basement of a “two-flat” building that has two above-ground apartments is converted to a third apartment. Its certificate indicates that the property is zoned for two units only, which means the basement isn’t approved for use as a residence. The basement was, therefore, completed without city permission — it’s illegal.
The Additional Dwelling Units (ADU) Ordinance, approved by the Chicago City Council in December 2020, expands housing access across Chicago by allowing ADUs in attics, basements, and accessory buildings. Common names for these type of housing units include coach houses, backyard houses and in-law apartments.
A Chicago basement apartment can extend to any depth below the floor grade as long as the space has sufficient protection from leakage. Floors and walls must be impervious to water penetration from both surface and underground water.
Where can I find the building codes in Illinois?
The CDB website provides a tool for your use to research building codes adopted by State of Illinois units of local government. Go to the CDB website. Click on List of Illinois Codes Used Throughout the State of Illinois by City or County. Scroll down the list to find the name and contact information for the local governing body.
You may need to obtain a permit for the de-conversion of basement or attic units. If you know of or suspect an illegal conversion in your neighborhood, you may contact 311, who will route your request to the appropriate City department (s) for inspection and enforcement action.