What's Banned on Your Block?

Enter a Chicago address or click the map to see what current zoning restricts and what you can do about it.

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About this tool

Chicago's zoning code determines what can be built or opened on every block. Opening a daycare, small grocery, or restaurant on most residential streets requires a special use permit. This is an onerous, slow process that requires a public hearing, certified mail to all neighbors within 250 feet, a $525 filing fee, and typically takes 3–4 months.

  • 41% of Chicago land is zoned for single-family homes or two-flats only Metropolitan Planning Council
  • 60% of new homes built 2006–2024 were in just 5 community areas near downtown Metropolitan Planning Council
  • Last among the 10 largest U.S. metro areas for new home construction in 2024 Crain's Chicago Business, 2024
Background, data, and reform context →
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This parcel is in a Planned Development (PD) district. PD zoning rules are custom-negotiated and must be reviewed case-by-case with the Chicago Department of Planning and Development.

Learn about Planned Developments →

This district allows all tracked uses by-right. No restrictions found.

Zoning data is not available for this district type in our database.

✗ Banned

    ⚠ Special Use Required

    Requires a public hearing and fees before the Zoning Board of Appeals. The process typically takes 3–4 months from application to decision.

      ◑ Conditional

      Permitted in some configurations, restricted in others (e.g. existing use allowed but new construction banned).

        ✓ Permitted by right ▸

        These uses are allowed without special approval. Some uses may require special use review above certain size thresholds.

          You're in . Contact your alderperson to advocate for zoning reform on your block.

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          Background, data, and reform context →

          Uses from Chicago Title 17 Zoning Ordinance. Data via Chicago Data Portal. A Strong Towns Chicago tool.