Chicago’s Top Building Code Violations, According to Zoning & Land Use Attorney Katarina Karac

“Many property owners and developers don’t realize they’ve violated a building code until they receive a citation,” explains Katarina Karac, founder of Birchwood Law. “Understanding the most common issues can help people avoid costly delays and complications in their projects.”

Most Frequent Building Code Issues in Chicago

According to the analysis, in 2025, the top violations center around public way usage and permit requirements:

1. Building upon public ways (32% of citations): This occurs when construction extends into public spaces without proper authorization. “Property owners often don’t realize that sidewalks, parkways, and alleys are considered public property,” Karac notes. “Even temporary use of these areas typically requires proper permits.”
2. Unauthorized excavation or disruption (22% of violations): These citations are issued when property owners dig or disturb public areas without permission. “Even minor landscaping work that extends beyond your property line can trigger this violation,” says Karac.
3. Permit omissions (9% of citations): Working without required permits or failing to update existing permits when project plans change. “The permitting process can seem overwhelming, but it’s designed to ensure safety and compliance,” Karac explains. “Many people don’t realize that even seemingly small modifications may require permit amendments.”
4. Underground construction issues (6% of cases): Working below ground without proper approvals, which can affect utilities and infrastructure. Karac comments, “Underground work carries significant risks to utility lines and structural integrity, which is why permits are strictly enforced in this area.”
5. Improper storage on public property (4% of violations): Using sidewalks, parkways, or other public areas for material storage during construction. “Contractors often temporarily place materials in these areas without realizing they need specific permission,” says Karac.

Different Neighborhoods, Different Enforcement Patterns

The data reveals significant differences in code enforcement across Chicago:

• Ward 6 has seen the highest number of violations (67), primarily related to permit and structural issues
• Ward 5 follows with 30 violations, focusing on the heating system and safety equipment compliance
• Ward 34 recorded 29 violations, many involving exterior maintenance requirements
• Ward 9 showed 28 violations, often centered around utility standards

“Each neighborhood has its own character and concerns, which often translates to how building codes are enforced,” Karac observes. “Understanding these local nuances can be just as important as knowing the regulations themselves.”

How a Zoning & Land Use Attorney Can Help

Karac’s background gives her unique insight into both sides of the regulatory process. Before founding Birchwood Law, she worked as a public sector attorney representing development agencies.

“Having worked with planning staff, zoning administrators, and elected officials, I understand how they approach these matters,” Karac says. “There’s often room for productive dialogue when issues arise, but knowing how to approach these conversations makes all the difference.”

Birchwood Law assists clients by:

• Providing clear explanations of code requirements in plain language
• Reviewing project plans to identify potential compliance issues before they become problems
• Helping secure proper permits and approvals
• Developing solutions when violations have already occurred
• Representing clients in administrative hearings when necessary

“Building codes exist to ensure safety and community standards,” Karac emphasizes. “When property owners understand not just what the rules are, but why they exist, compliance becomes much more straightforward.”

For more information or to schedule a consultation with Katarina Karac, visit https://birchwood.law/.

About Katarina Karac

Katarina Karac founded Birchwood Law after recognizing the need for approachable, knowledgeable legal guidance in Chicago’s real estate development community. Her educational background includes a J.D. from The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law and a B.A. from the University of Illinois at Chicago, where she graduated summa cum laude.

Karac regularly presents at seminars and continuing legal education events on zoning and land use topics. She works with real estate developers, investors, businesses, and individual property owners throughout Chicago, bringing efficiency and predictability to the often complex world of building codes and zoning regulations.

Contact Information

Birchwood Law – Land Use & Zoning

5 Revere Dr. Suite 200,

Northbrook, IL 60062

About Birchwood Law – Land Use & Zoning

About Birchwood Law
Birchwood Law is a one-stop shop for all zoning needs throughout the Greater Chicago area. The firm streamlines the often expensive and uncertain zoning process through experienced navigation of bureaucratic channels and practical advocacy. With experience in variations, special use permits, planned developments, and zoning litigation, Birchwood Law assists clients with mixed-use, residential, commercial, and industrial projects at every stage of development. The firm also regularly represents clients at adjudication hearings throughout Chicagoland.
Contact Information
Birchwood Law – Land Use & Zoning
5 Revere Dr. Suite 200,
Northbrook, IL 60062