MCC Ch. 11-12 requires Chicago Department of Water Management to repair public-side leaks once reported and obligates property owners to fix private-side leaks promptly, with adjustment programs available for excessive metered consumption.
Chicago's water service is split at the b-box (buffalo box) curb shutoff. The city repairs leaks on the public main and the service line up to the b-box; property owners must repair private-side leaks from the b-box into the home. MCC 11-12-150 requires owners to fix detected leaks promptly, with the Department of Water Management able to issue notices and ultimately shut off service for non-repair. Residents report visible leaks, broken hydrants, and water main breaks via 311 or the Water Management call center. Metered customers experiencing high bills from concealed leaks may apply for a one-time leak adjustment after repair documentation.
Failure to repair private-side leaks after notice triggers shut-off of service and fines from $100 to $1,000 per day under MCC 11-12-590. Tampering with shut-off valves carries enhanced penalties up to $2,000 per offense.
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 leak reporting duty rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.