Can I build an ADU in Chicago?
Answered by AskBaily Editorial · Updated
Short answer
Only in the five designated ADU Pilot zones — Northwest, Northeast, Southwest, Southeast, and West Pilot Areas. Outside those zones Chicago ADUs are prohibited. Coach-house and basement conversions carry distinct rule sets within the pilot zones. CDOB Standard Plan Review + BACP GC license required; CCL review added on landmarked blocks. The pilot is under review for citywide expansion.
In detail
Only in the five designated ADU Pilot zones — Northwest, Northeast, Southwest, Southeast, and West Pilot Areas. Outside those zones Chicago ADUs are prohibited. Coach-house and basement conversions carry distinct rule sets within the pilot zones. CDOB Standard Plan Review + BACP GC license required; CCL review added on landmarked blocks. The pilot is under review for citywide expansion.
This answer is part of AskBaily's chicago regulatory knowledge base. For deeper context — including current code-section references, agency contact details, and recent policy changes — see the [chicago city hub](/chicago) or [the /ask hub](/ask) for related questions.
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