New ordinance regulating vacant storefront across Chicago gets City Council approval

The Chicago City Council has passed an ordinance requiring property owners to register, maintain, and insure buildings with vacant storefronts and unoccupied ground-level spaces. The measure aims to boost business districts and provide new opportunities for entrepreneurs, according to a city statement from the city.

"Opportunity is here in Chicago. Revitalizing business districts fosters neighborhood growth and encourages entrepreneurs to pursue new ventures," Mayor Brandon Johnson said. "These regulations are essential in ensuring that good businesses have a home in Chicago, and that residents and neighboring business owners benefit from that growth and opportunity in communities they can take pride in."

Starting in late July, property owners must register all vacant storefront properties, keep such properties in good condition, and have liability insurance coverage. According to the city's statement, commercial storefronts in Chicago that are undergoing active construction, under contract, or awaiting building permits, will not be considered vacant,

According to the statement, the ordinance was first introduced in November of 2023 by Ald. Anthony Napolitano. "For years, many property owners have neglected their commercial storefronts while benefiting from a vacancy tax exemption," Alderman Napolitano said.

"These vacancies harm our neighboring businesses and weaken our local economy. It has been a pleasure working with the Department of Buildings, Business Affairs, the Mayor's office, and other business stakeholders to create legislation that will support our local business districts while holding bad actors accountable."

The Chicago Department of Buildings has worked Ald. Napolitano and other stakeholders to strengthen the empty storefront regulations in an effort to decrease vacant retail space in Chicago.

"I've seen these seemingly abandoned storefronts across the City, and firmly believe this ordinance will enhance public safety and improve quality of life for residents and visitors while boosting the entrepreneurial spirit in all 77 of Chicago's community areas," said Building Commissioner Marlene Hopkins.