Chicago Code Modernization Passes Zoning, Landmarks and Building Standards Committee, Proceeds to Full City Council Vote

The Chicago Code Modernization ordinance passed the Zoning, Landmarks and Building Standards Committee by unanimous vote on April 9, 2019. The ordinance, which will bring Chicago's Building Code more in line with codes based on the International Building Code, is the result of a partnership between BOMA/Chicago, the Department of Buildings, and a number of other organizations.

Next, the full City Council will vote on the ordinance, which was introduced before the Chicago City Council on March 13.

If adopted as planned, the new building and building rehabilitation codes will have a gradual, phased implementation to ensure everyone involved has time to get up to speed. The City will be working with International Codes Council to publish consolidated user-friendly code books and electronic versions by October. The new code will become optional December 1, 2019, after adequate time for training, and will not become mandatory until the summer of 2020.

This ordinance reflects Mayor Emanuel’s commitment to working with a wide range of stakeholders to more closely align Chicago’s construction requirements with the latest national standards while keeping longstanding local requirements that are well-adapted to Chicago’s unique urban environment and will be the first comprehensive revision to the Chicago Building Code in almost 70 years.

View the proposed Ordinance here.

View the Modernizing Chicago Construction Codes brochure produced by the City of Chicago.

Read the blog post: Building Code Modernization Ordinance: My Take by former Department of Buildings Commissioner Graham C. Grady.