Chicago City Council to vote on granny flats, parking minimums
Illinois Policy analysis shows cutting government red tape would expand housing options, support families and boost affordability

CHICAGO (July 16, 2025) – Today, Chicago’s City Council is set to vote on a series of policies that will affect housing development in Chicago.

These ordinances include pro-housing policies that lift barriers on additional dwelling units and eliminate parking minimums near public transit.

Illinois Policy experts are available in Chicago to comment on the city council meeting. 

Chicago could vote on ordinances that would:

• Expand additional dwelling units: The legislation would expand Chicago’s pilot program to allow for the construction of additional dwelling units across the city. These include attic apartments, basement units and backyard coach houses. Illinois Policy Institute analysis shows legalizing the units in more neighborhoods would expand housing supply, provide relief to multigenerational families and increase affordability in desirable neighborhoods.

• Reduce parking minimums: The legislation would remove 100% of parking minimums within one-half mile of an “L” or Metra station and within one-quarter mile of a CTA bus line, where currently 50% can be eliminated. These types of reforms have proven successful in other cities to expand housing construction in transit-dense, desirable neighborhoods.

Statement from LyLena Estabine, policy researcher for Illinois Policy, on the additional dwelling unit and parking minimum ordinances:  

“Chicago’s restrictive zoning code banned additional dwelling units in 1957 and has created a system that prioritizes parking over people. These unnecessary government restrictions have slowed growth and driven up the cost of living and building in Chicago. Legalizing the units citywide would offer homeowners more freedom, additional income potential and housing options to support working families. Eliminating parking minimums would cut back on barriers for development and lower rents. Aldermen should pass these ordinances.”

For interviews or interviews, contact media@illinoispolicy.org or (312) 607-4977.