United States • Illinois
Site analysis in Chicago
An introduction to site analysis in Chicago, covering planning context, common constraints, climate, terrain and transport. Use this city overview to identify what needs checking at the specific site.
Use this overview to plan your research. Verify current requirements and site-specific conditions against the relevant primary sources. Read our data sources, coverage and limits guide.
Planning regime
Chicago Zoning Ordinance + Industrial Corridor Modernization + Chicago Plan Commission
Key constraints
- Lakefront Protection Ordinance
- Landmark districts
- TIF districts (170+)
- Pilsen / Bronzeville cultural designations
Climate context
Dfa humid continental. Hot summers, very cold winters. 952mm rainfall.
Topography
Flat. Lake Michigan to east, prairie to west. Average elevation 182m AOD.
Transport spine
CTA L 8 lines, Metra commuter rail 11 lines, extensive bus.
Building height context
Loop has Willis Tower (442m) and Trump Tower (423m). Lake Shore Drive Plan Commission reviews. Most neighborhood zoning RS-1 to RT-4.
Notable recent projects
- Lincoln Yards
- The 78
- Obama Presidential Center
Questions
What planning policies apply in Chicago?
Chicago Zoning Ordinance + Industrial Corridor Modernization + Chicago Plan Commission
What are the most common site constraints in Chicago?
Lakefront Protection Ordinance. Landmark districts. TIF districts (170+). Pilsen / Bronzeville cultural designations.
Can Atlasly run a site analysis in Chicago?
Available site information depends on the address and data source. Start with the site location and review the returned sources and coverage before using the results.
Run a site analysis in Chicago
Start with a site location, review the available evidence and identify the checks needed for your next design decision.
Open Atlas AIReview current plans and usage and source coverage for your project.