Bird Protection: Chicago vs New York
How do bird protection rules compare between Chicago, IL and New York, NY?
Chicago and New York have similar restriction levels.
Chicago, IL
Cook County
Chicago's 2020 bird-friendly design ordinance MCC 17-4-1606 mandates collision-deterrent glazing on new and significantly remodeled large buildings. Wild birds remain protected statewide under the Illinois Wildlife Code 520 ILCS 5 and the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
View full Chicago rules →New York, NY
New York County
Native birds in New York City are protected by the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act and New York Environmental Conservation Law §11-0535. NYC Local Law 15 of 2020 added bird-safe glass requirements to the city Building Code. Killing or disturbing protected birds or active nests is illegal.
View full New York rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chicago | New York |
|---|---|---|
| Design rule | MCC 17-4-1606 (2020 ord.) | - |
| Facade scope | First 36 feet plus green-roof glass | - |
| State law | 520 ILCS 5/2.2 and 5/2.33 | ECL §11-0535 |
| Federal law | Migratory Bird Treaty Act | Migratory Bird Treaty Act |
| Voluntary program | Lights Out Chicago | - |
| Bird-safe glass | - | NYC Local Law 15 (2020) |
| Building Code | - | §1403 lower-story glazing |
| Volunteer rescue | - | Wild Bird Fund |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Chicago FAQ
Does the bird-friendly rule apply to my house?
No. MCC 17-4-1606 applies to new construction and major remodels of larger buildings reviewed by the Department of Planning. Single-family homes are exempt, though residents are encouraged to use decals or screens voluntarily.
Can I remove a robin nest from my porch?
Not while it is active with eggs or chicks. Wait until empty and confirmed abandoned, or apply for an IDNR depredation permit. Native songbirds are federally protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
New York FAQ
Can I remove a bird nest from my building?
Not if it is an active nest of any MBTA-protected species, which covers nearly every native songbird. Wait until the nest is empty and inactive, or apply for a federal depredation permit through the US Fish and Wildlife Service.
Does Local Law 15 apply to existing buildings?
It applies to new construction and major envelope renovations, requiring bird-friendly glass on the first seventy-five feet of facade and adjacent to green roofs. Existing buildings are encouraged but not required to retrofit.
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