CHICAGO ZONING CERTIFICATIONS

Do you need a Zoning Certificate?

A Certificate of Zoning Compliance is required when selling a residential property with 1-5 dwelling units (not condos or co-ops) in Chicago. This certificate verifies the legal number of units on the property.

What happens during the process?

• The City reviews your application and may inspect the property.
• Certificates are issued within 5-10 business days (excluding weekends and holidays).

Fees and Services by Property Type:

• Condo/Co-op, Vacant Property, Commercial: No certificate needed.
• Townhouse/Single Family:
  • Stewart Title – GIT can provide certification at closing (requires completed application and $120 city fee).
• 2-5 Unit Building:
  • Requires 10 business days for city processing.
  • Stewart Title – GIT can provide certification before closing (requires completed application, $120 city fee, and 14 days’ notice).
• Mixed-Use (Residential + Commercial):
  • Requires certification if one to five residential units exist.
  • Fees follow single-family or two-to-five-unit structure (provide number of units for processing).
• Commercial Building:
  • Requires a separate “Certified Building Registration Form”. Call 312.743.7063 for more information.

Have questions?

Contact GIT Special Services Department at specialservices@gitc.com or 312.236.7781.