Chicago Advances Citywide ADU Legalization Ordinance

Chicago's City Council Zoning Committee has advanced a proposal to legalize accessory dwelling units (ADUs), or 'granny flats', citywide, aiming to address a housing shortage estimated at 120,000 units. Supported by Mayor Brandon Johnson and Alderman Bennett Lawson, the ordinance includes safeguards such as annual limits on ADUs per block in single-family zones and requires homeowners to live on-site for detached units. The measure also bans short-term rentals for new ADUs and mandates annual reporting on ADU creation. Opposition comes primarily from aldermen in single-family districts, who cite concerns about neighborhood density and resource strain, while supporters argue the change is critical for affordability and flexibility. The 2021 pilot ADU program saw limited uptake due to its restricted scope, but advocates believe a citywide policy will provide more housing options for seniors, families, and renters. The full City Council is scheduled to vote on the measure, which could significantly reshape Chicago's housing supply landscape.