Chicago City Council Approves Citywide ADU Expansion Ordinance

Today, the Chicago City Council convened to address several matters. Notably, after months of negotiations, the Council approved the ADU Compromise Expansion Ordinance.

The ordinance, introduced by Alderman Bennett Lawson (44th Ward) and Alderman Marty Quinn (13th Ward), expands the Affordable Dwelling Unit (ADU) program citywide. The measure legalizes coach houses and granny flats in all areas zoned for multi-unit housing, replacing the city’s pilot program with a permanent framework. It also preserves aldermanic oversight for ADUs proposed in single-family zones. The ordinance takes effect on April 1, 2026.

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