Historic Preservation in Chicago, IL (2026)
4 verified historic preservation rules for Chicago, Illinois, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
HPOZ Rules
Chicago does not use the HPOZ model. The Commission on Chicago Landmarks designates individual landmarks and landmark districts under MCC 2-120, regulating exterior alterations, demolition, and new construction within district boundaries through a permit review process.
Chicago Has No HPOZ; Uses Landmark Districts Under MCC 2-120
Some RestrictionsHistoric-Cultural Monuments
Chicago designates individual properties as Chicago Landmarks under MCC 2-120-620 after Commission review against seven criteria. Designation triggers permit review for visible exterior work and unlocks Class L tax incentives for qualifying rehabilitation projects.
Individual Landmark Designation Under Chicago Landmarks Ordinance
Some RestrictionsMills Act Contracts
Illinois has no equivalent to California's Mills Act. Chicago landmark owners instead use the Class L property tax incentive under 35 ILCS 200/15-40 and Cook County Assessor rules, freezing assessed value for twelve years on rehabilitated landmarks.
Illinois Has No Mills Act; Chicago Uses Class L Property Tax Freeze
Few RestrictionsHCM Demolition Controls
Chicago triggers demolition review through both the citywide Demolition-Delay Ordinance under MCC 13-32-125 and the Landmarks Demolition Hold under MCC 2-120-740. Orange-rated and Red-rated buildings face holds up to 90 days; designated landmarks generally cannot be demolished.
Demolition Delay And Landmark Demolition Review Under MCC 13-32 And 2-120
Heavy RestrictionsLooking for Cook County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Chicago city rules.
Historic Preservation in Cook County →