Chicago has no ordinance specific to residential lawn ornaments, statuary, or year-round decorations. Landmark Commission approval is required only for permanent features in designated Chicago Landmark districts under MCC Chapter 2-120.
There is no Chicago Municipal Code provision regulating lawn ornaments, statuary, or year-round front-yard decorations on private residential property. Two indirect frameworks apply. First, properties within designated Chicago Landmark districts or individually landmarked buildings require a Permit Review under MCC Chapter 2-120 from the Commission on Chicago Landmarks before installing permanent visible fixed features. Chicago has over 60 landmark districts. Second, public right-of-way obstruction (parkway strip, sidewalk) is prohibited under MCC 10-28 without a Public Way Use Permit. Condo and HOA properties remain subject to private bylaws under 765 ILCS 605 (Condominium Property Act) and 765 ILCS 160 (Common Interest Community Act). Outside landmark districts and HOA-governed communities, there is no city architectural review.
Landmark district violations under MCC 2-120-740 carry penalties up to $1,000 and require restoration to historic standard. Public way obstructions under MCC 10-28 start at $100 per offense. HOA and condo enforcement is private under bylaws.
Chicago, IL
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