Committee on Zoning, Landmarks, and Building Standards

Committee Jurisdiction

The Committee on Zoning, Landmarks and Building Standards has jurisdiction over:

• All zoning matters and the operation of the Zoning Board of Appeals and the office of the Zoning Administrator;
• Land use policy generally and land use recommendations of the Chicago Plan Commission and the Department of Housing and Planning and Development;
• Building code ordinances and matters generally affecting the Department of Buildings;
• Designation, maintenance and preservation of historical and architectural landmarks.

What is Zoning?

Zoning refers to the set of laws that govern how land can be used. Zoning controls both the types of uses (i.e. single-family residential, multi-family residential, commercial, industrial, etc.) allowed on a particular piece of land, as well as the height, bulk, and density of buildings.

Chicago’s zoning laws can be found in Title 17 of the Chicago Municipal Code.

How do I know what my property is zoned?

You can look up the zoning of your property on the city’s zoning map. You can also request an opinion letter from the city’s Zoning Administrator by following the steps outlined here.

What does the Committee on Zoning do?

The Committee on Zoning, Landmarks and Building Standards hears all legislation introduced to the City Council having to do with the city’s zoning and building codes, as well as all future land use planning and policy.

Typical types of legislation the Committee handles include:

• Map Amendments to the Chicago Zoning Map
• Text Amendments to the Building and Zoning Codes
• Orders for large signs over 100 square feet in area and or 24 feet above grade
• The Designation of Chicago Landmarks
• The Demolition of Chicago Landmarks
• Fee Waivers for Chicago Landmarks
• Appointments to the Chicago Plan Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals, Commission on Chicago Landmarks, and Public Building Commission

What is an administrative adjustment?

Administrative adjustments are intended to provide a streamlined approval procedure for minor modifications of selected zoning standards. They aim to allow development that aligns with the neighborhood's character, promote rehabilitation, and address unusual development conditions.

More about Administrative Adjustments:

Administrative adjustments can be granted by the City’s Zoning Administrator or as part of a Type 1 Zoning Map Amendment application, which must be approved by the Committee on Zoning and the full City Council.

The application and related materials can be found here.

Other Terms

• What is a variation?
• | What is a planned development?
• | What is a special use?