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.
Unlike Los Angeles HPOZs, Chicago centralizes historic-district oversight in the nine-member Commission on Chicago Landmarks created by MCC 2-120-580. The Commission designates both individual buildings and geographic landmark districts after applying seven criteria covering architecture, history, and culture. Within districts, any work requiring a building permit triggers Permit Review Committee evaluation under MCC 2-120-740, which judges visible exterior changes against published district guidelines. Routine maintenance using same materials is staff-approved; substantial alterations require full Commission hearings. Property owners receive Class L tax benefits in exchange for substantial rehabilitation. Chicago has approximately 60 designated landmark districts including Old Town Triangle, Pullman, and Astor Street.
Performing exterior work in a landmark district without Permit Review Committee approval triggers stop-work orders, daily fines from $500 to $1,000 under MCC 2-120-820, and required restoration to pre-violation condition.
Chicago, IL
Chicago designates individual properties as Chicago Landmarks under MCC 2-120-620 after Commission review against seven criteria. Designation triggers permit...
Chicago, IL
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...
Chicago, IL
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...
See how Chicago's hpoz rules rules stack up against other locations.
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