- When: 2025/03/12
- Address: 2631-2633 W 15th St, Chicago, IL
- City: Chicago
- State: IL
- Category: Spot Rezoning
- Subcategory: Residential Rezoning
- Asset Class: Multifamily
- Property Type: Affordable Housing
Chicago City Council approved a zoning reclassification at 2631–2633 W 15th St, changing the designation from RT-4 to RM-5. The change allows for higher residential density and more flexible housing configurations, enabling the development of a mid-sized multifamily housing structure in place of lower-density two- or three-flats. The RM-5 designation permits a higher floor area ratio, greater height allowance, and reduced lot area per dwelling unit compared to RT-4, making it more suitable for urban infill and affordable housing goals. The site is located in a predominantly residential area and the zoning change aligns with ongoing efforts to support increased housing supply and affordability in key city neighborhoods.
Why it Matters
This rezoning increases residential density on underutilized lots, supporting affordable housing development and more efficient land use in Chicago’s housing-constrained neighborhoods.
Source
Allowed Uses: RM-5 zoning permits multi-unit residential buildings including apartments and condominiums. The zoning allows increased density and building height compared to RT-4, with uses including low- to mid-rise multifamily housing, in accordance with Chicago Zoning Ordinance 17-2-0200.
Density: FAR of 2.2 for RM-5 zoning (17-2-0312). Minimum lot area per dwelling unit is 400 sq ft for efficiency, 500 sq ft for one-bedroom (17-2-0311).
Minimum Lot Size: 400 sq ft per efficiency unit; 500 sq ft per one-bedroom unit (17-2-0311).
Maximum Building Height: Maximum height of 60 ft in RM-5 districts unless modified by overlay or PD (17-2-0313).
Lot Coverage: Controlled through setbacks and height/bulk regulations; no explicit maximum percentage stated (17-2-0300 series).
Previous Zoning: RT-4 Residential Two-Flat, Townhouse and Multi-Unit District