Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
Have you wanted to build a unit in your basement for rental income? A coach house for a family member?
In December 2020, Alderman Martin helped pass an ordinance legalizing new construction Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs: coach houses, granny flats, basement units) in five pilot zones in Chicago. The north side pilot includes the entirety of the 47th Ward, as well as the 40th and 48th Wards.
How to build an ADU - a three part video series
resources
Includes an overview of the ordinance
Includes information regarding the ADU Neighborhood Lending Program
NHS' basement unit booklet for download
NHS can advise homeowners on financial and other decisions. Contact their Client Services with questions at 773-321-4111
NHS also operates an Additional Dwelling Unit Grant Program which offers Planning Grants and Construction Grants for homeowners below a certain income limit to build out an ADU.
CityScape's ADU Portal includes:
ADU Address lookup
Frequently Asked Questions
Explainer Video
Directory of Architects, Contractors, Developers, and Consultants
Chicago Apartment Association’s The Keys to Managing a Property
The Chicago Low Income Housing Trust Fund is setting aside vouchers specifically for residents of ADUs. You can find their welcome package here.
The City of Chicago’s data portal tracks the number of ADU pre-approval applications the Department of Housing has received, as well as the number of pre-approvals they have issued.