Chicago, Ill., Mun. Code ch. 13-20 § 13-20-500
Scope (Chicago Building Inspection Code (Chapter 13-20))
Operative Text
This article covers the requirements for approval of applications, issuance of permits, and supervision of all signs, signboards, and supporting structures, as defined below, which are constructed, erected, or being maintained under the provisions of this chapter. The installation requirements for this equipment are covered in Section 14E-6-600 . (Added Coun. J. 11-3-99, p. 13842, § 3; Amend Coun. J. 9-6-17, p. 55278, Art. II, § 14)
Chicago Municipal Code ch. 13-20 § 13-20-500 establishes the scope of the city's sign regulation article, covering the approval of applications, issuance of permits, and ongoing supervision of signs, signboards, and their supporting structures. The provision applies to any such structures that are constructed, erected, or maintained under this chapter. Electrical installation requirements for sign equipment are addressed separately under Section 14E-6-600.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers operating in Chicago should be aware that ch. 13-20 § 13-20-500 sets the framework governing permits and oversight for any signs or signboards on their properties. Compliant operators generally ensure that all signs and supporting structures are covered by the appropriate city-issued permits before installation or continued maintenance. Electrical components of sign installations are subject to the additional requirements found in Section 14E-6-600.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
While ch. 13-20 § 13-20-500 primarily governs sign permitting and supervision rather than tenant-specific rights, tenants who have concerns about unpermitted or improperly maintained signs or signboards on their building may reference this provision when raising the issue with building management. Tenants can also contact the Chicago Department of Housing or relevant city inspection authorities to inquire about permit compliance for structures covered under this article. Tenant-rights organizations in Chicago can help clarify whether signage conditions on a property relate to broader habitability or code-compliance concerns.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 14, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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