Chicago Energy Conservation Code MCC 18-13 requires reflective cool roofs on new and replacement low-slope roofs, the country's first such mandate. Minimum solar reflectance is 0.72 initial and 0.50 aged.
Adopted in 2009 as one of the nation's first cool-roof mandates, MCC Ch. 18-13 (Chicago Energy Conservation Code) requires that new and replacement low-slope roofs (slope under 2:12) on commercial and multi-family buildings achieve a minimum initial solar reflectance of 0.72 and aged reflectance of 0.50, or installation under an alternate path using ENERGY STAR cool-roof products. Steep-slope residential roofs receive less stringent reflectance requirements but must meet IECC R-values. Compliance is verified at Department of Buildings inspection through manufacturer documentation. Vegetative green roofs and reflective ballast systems satisfy the rule. Repairs covering less than 25% of roof area are exempt.
Roofs failing reflectance requirements at inspection cannot receive Department of Buildings sign-off, blocking certificate of occupancy. Building permit fines run $300 to $2,000 per violation under MCC 14B-1-113. Repeat permit violations can trigger contractor license suspension.
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 cool roof requirements rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.