Chicago, Ill., Mun. Code ch. 7-28 § 7-28-635
Sale of mercury thermometers containing mercury substance (Chicago Health Nuisances Ordinance)
Operative Text
No person shall knowingly sell, give away, or offer to sell or give away any mercury fever thermometer, including online retail, to consumers and patients, except by prescription. It shall also be unlawful for any person to manufacture a mercury thermometer in the City. Any person violating any provisions of this section shall be fined not less than $50.00 nor more than $200.00 for each offense. (Added Coun. J. 7-25-01, p. 64934, § 1)
Under Chicago, Ill., Mun. Code ch. 7-28 § 7-28-635, it is prohibited for any person to sell, give away, offer to sell, or offer to give away mercury fever thermometers to consumers or patients—including through online retail channels—without a prescription. Manufacturing mercury thermometers within Chicago city limits is also unlawful. Violations of this provision carry fines ranging from $50 to $200 per offense.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers who supply or stock any health or medical items on their premises should be aware that Chicago, Ill., Mun. Code ch. 7-28 § 7-28-635 prohibits distributing or offering mercury fever thermometers to residents or patients without a valid prescription. Compliant operators generally ensure that any thermometers provided in common areas, rental units, or on-site facilities are non-mercury alternatives. Keeping records of the types of health supplies stocked can help demonstrate adherence to this municipal code provision.
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 § 7-28-635 gives residents a basis to raise concerns if a landlord or property manager distributes mercury fever thermometers without a prescription, as doing so is prohibited under city law. Tenants who believe this provision is being violated may consider filing a complaint with the Chicago Department of Housing or another relevant city authority, or reaching out to a local tenant-rights organization for general guidance. Understanding this rule can help renters recognize when a health-related municipal code may be implicated in their housing situation.
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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