Chicago's Energy Transformation Code MCC Ch. 18-13 (effective 2022) plus the Sustainable Development Policy require electrification readiness, high envelope performance, and green features for projects receiving city financial assistance or zoning bonuses.
MCC Ch. 18-13, the Chicago Energy Transformation Code, is among the strictest local energy codes in the U.S. It requires new construction and major renovations to meet aggressive envelope, lighting, and HVAC efficiency targets, plus electric-vehicle and electric-heating readiness. The companion Sustainable Development Policy applies to projects receiving Tax Increment Financing, planned developments, or zoning bonuses, awarding points for LEED certification, green roofs, solar, and stormwater management. Chicago's Green Roof program traces back to a 2001 City Hall demonstration and now covers millions of square feet. The Department of Buildings handles permits, while the Department of Planning administers the Sustainable Development Policy scoring system.
Permit denial, project disapproval, and forfeiture of TIF or zoning bonuses for non-compliance with the Sustainable Development Policy. Energy code violations under MCC 18-13 carry fines from $500 to $5,000 plus required corrective work.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Chicago, IL
No Chicago-specific ordinance allocates division-fence costs between neighbors; the Illinois Fence Act (765 ILCS 130) applies, requiring adjoining landowners...
Chicago, IL
Chicago Zoning Ordinance 17-17-0309 lets fences encroach into required setbacks: a fence no more than 20% opaque up to 6 feet is allowed in front, side, and ...
Chicago, IL
Chicago Building Code Chapter 13-196 requires approved smoke alarms in every residential unit: at least one on each story (including basement), within 15 fee...
Chicago, IL
Chicago has no ordinance specific to residential lawn ornaments, statuary, or year-round decorations. Landmark Commission approval is required only for perma...
Chicago, IL
Chicago has no ordinance specific to residential holiday inflatables. Inflator-motor noise after hours is enforced under MCC Section 8-32 (noise), and sidewa...
Chicago, IL
Chicago has no ordinance regulating residential holiday light display windows or brightness. Property maintenance complaints are handled under MCC Section 13...
See how Chicago's green building code rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.