Chicago, Ill., Mun. Code ch. 7-28 § 7-28-030
Common law and statutory nuisances (Chicago Health Nuisances Ordinance)
Operative Text
In all cases where no provision is herein made defining what are nuisances and how the same may be removed, abated, or prevented, in addition to what may be declared such herein, those offenses which are known to the common law of the land and the statutes of Illinois as nuisances may, in case the same exist within the city limits or within one mile thereof, be treated as such, and proceeded against as is provided in this Code, or in accordance with any other provision of law. (Prior code § 99-3)
Under Chicago, Ill., Mun. Code ch. 7-28 § 7-28-030, conditions that qualify as nuisances under Illinois common law or state statutes are also treated as nuisances under Chicago's municipal code when they exist within city limits or within one mile of them. This provision fills gaps in the local code by incorporating the broader body of nuisance law, so that any recognized nuisance can be addressed through the city's enforcement procedures or other applicable legal channels. The rule does not create a new category of nuisance but instead ensures that existing legal definitions carry full force within Chicago's jurisdiction.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers operating in Chicago should be aware that Chicago, Ill., Mun. Code ch. 7-28 § 7-28-030 extends nuisance liability beyond conditions explicitly listed in the municipal code to include anything recognized as a nuisance under Illinois common law or state statutes. Compliant operators generally monitor their properties for conditions—such as persistent odors, pest infestations, or hazardous accumulations—that could meet that broader legal standard. Staying current with both local ordinances and Illinois state nuisance law helps operators understand the full scope of conditions that may trigger enforcement action.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Chicago, Ill., Mun. Code ch. 7-28 § 7-28-030 means that tenants are not limited to conditions explicitly named in the city code when identifying a potential nuisance; conditions recognized as nuisances under Illinois common law or state statutes are equally enforceable within Chicago. Tenants who believe a nuisance condition exists on or near their property may have multiple avenues available, including filing a complaint with the Chicago Department of Housing or other relevant city agencies, or raising the violation through applicable legal proceedings. Tenant-rights organizations can help explain how this provision interacts with other local and state protections.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated September 18, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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