The most common code violations in Chicago include sanitation code complaints (garbage in alleys, overflowing dumpsters), building maintenance issues, illegal conversions, graffiti, abandoned vehicles, and rodent complaints. Sanitation violations are consistently the highest-volume 311 category.
Top code violations reported through CHI311 include: Sanitation code complaints (garbage in alleys, overflowing dumpsters, illegal dumping) — consistently the highest volume. Rodent complaints (rat sightings, burrows) — addressed by Streets and Sanitation baiting program. Graffiti removal requests — handled by Graffiti Blasters program. Building maintenance violations (deteriorating facades, broken windows, unsafe stairs) — Department of Buildings. Illegal building conversions (coach houses, basement apartments without permits) — Department of Buildings. Abandoned vehicles on public streets — ticketed after 7 days. Potholes — Department of Transportation. Tree debris and emergency tree removal — Department of Streets and Sanitation Forestry. Vacant building concerns — Department of Buildings tracks the Vacant Buildings registry. Chicago Municipal Code Chapter 7-28 (Sanitation) and Chapter 13-196 (Building Code) are the most frequently cited code sections.
Sanitation violations (Ch. 7-28) carry fines of $300-$600 per offense. Building code violations carry fines of $500-$1,000 per day. Abandoned vehicle violations result in ticketing and eventual towing. Graffiti on private property must be removed by the owner within 7 days of notice.
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...
Chicago, IL
Chicago requires Department of Buildings permits for outdoor kitchens with gas piping, electrical wiring, or plumbing under MCC Chapter 14A. Trade work must ...
Chicago, IL
Chicago has no ordinance specifically regulating residential smokers or wood-fired ovens. Smoke nuisance is enforced under Chicago Municipal Code Section 11-...
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