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Chicago

Single-family zoning ban proposed for Chicago, other Illinois cities

Bill in general assembly aims to encourage residential density

State Officials Propose Single-Family Zoning Change
State Representative Kam Buckner and Alderman Bennett Lawson (Illinois House Democratic Caucus, Bennettfor44, Getty)

Major changes could be in store for Chicago’s housing market, along with other cities in Illinois. 

State Rep. Kam Buckner recently introduced HB 4795, the Single-Family Zoning Ban Act. The proposed legislation seeks to prohibit single-family only zoning across eight cities in Illinois, mirroring measures adopted in Oregon, California and Washington, Crain’s reported. 

The ban would be implemented gradually, starting with cities with populations between 100,000 and 500,000 by June 1, 2025, and extending to cities with more than 500,000 residents by June 2026.

Aggressive action is needed to address housing challenges, specifically in the Windy City, Buckner said.

“One thing we’re seeing for sure, with the migrant situation in Chicago and around the Chicagoland area, is that the state needs to be a little bit more aggressive in the way that we talk about housing,” he told the outlet.

The bill mandates that residential properties allow for “middle housing,” although specific definitions remain under negotiation. Middle housing is described as an alternative to large-lot single-family homes and large apartment complexes. This could potentially include two-flats, three-flats or additional dwelling units.

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The proposal has received mixed reactions. While some see it as a positive step toward addressing housing affordability and density issues, others, including Chicago Alderman Bennett Lawson, expressed concerns about its potential limitations on zoning decisions and the impact on aldermanic prerogative. 

“It limits the home-rule powers so that the state is saying that we can no longer have single-family zones,” Lawson told the outlet.

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Buckner contends that the bill aims to promote inclusivity and density in urban areas without disregarding local input. The discussion around the bill reflects broader debates seen in other states grappling with similar zoning reforms.

If enacted, the Single-Family Zoning Ban Act could mark a significant shift in the Illinois housing landscape, challenging traditional zoning practices and potentially reshaping urban development patterns across the state.

—Quinn Donoghue

Companies and People
Ald. Bennett LawsonKam Buckner
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Illinois General AssemblyResidentialZoning