Chicago does not have a wildland brush clearance zone requirement like western states. However, Municipal Code Section 7-28-120 requires all property owners to control weeds below 10 inches, and the property maintenance code requires removal of dead trees and combustible debris.
Unlike cities in wildfire-prone areas, Chicago does not mandate a defensible space or brush clearance zone around structures. However, multiple code sections address vegetation-related fire safety. Section 7-28-120 requires all property owners to cut or control weeds so the average height does not exceed 10 inches. Weeds exceeding 10 inches are declared a public nuisance. The Existing Building Code property maintenance standards (Section 14X-3-302.5) require weeds and vegetation to be controlled. Mortgagees of vacant properties must maintain grass and weeds below 10 inches and remove all dead or damaged trees, tree limbs, and shrubbery. The Fire Prevention Bureau enforces removal of combustible materials and debris that create fire hazards under the Chicago Fire Code.
Weed violations under Section 7-28-120 carry fines of $600 to $1,200 per day. The city may abate the nuisance without notice in emergencies posing imminent threat to public safety and place a lien on the property for abatement costs.
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-...
Chicago, IL
Chicago Fire Code Section 14F-3-307.5 prohibits charcoal and gas grills on balconies and within 10 feet of combustible construction in multi-family buildings...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Cook County.
See how other cities in Cook County handle brush clearance.
See how Chicago's brush clearance rules stack up against other locations.
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