Chicago Landmark Designation Process Commission on Chicago Landmarks

Request for Local Landmark Designation
Buildings or districts recommended for designation by members of the public, civi c groups, or Commission on Chicago Landmarks staff. (Listing a property on the National Register of Historic Place is handled by the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency.)

Designation Report by Commission Staff
Staff researches historic and architectural significance of properties; submits staff report to Commission.

Preliminary Recommendation of Eligibility
Commission votes whether to proceed with designation. A positive vote gives Commission authority to review building permits during the designation process.

Report from Department of Planning and Development
Statement of how the proposed landmark designation fits with neighborhood plans and policies.

Commission Requests Owner Consent
Owner consent is advisory - not required - for designation. Where "non-consent/no response," a public hearing is required.

Final Commission Recommendation
After a review of the designation record, Commission votes whether to recommend designation to City Council.

Hearing by City Council's Landmark Committee
Commission's recommendation is referred to Committee on Historical Landmarks Preservation, which votes whether to recommend to City Council.

Designation Vote by City Council
Designation of a Chicago Landmark is a legislative act of the Chicago City Council.

*This overview is offered as context for the landmark designation process as set forth in sections 2-120-630 through 2-120-730 of the Municipal Code and does not supplant the provisions of the Code. Interested persons are therefore urged to consult the Code.