Building and Zoning Violations

Service Information

Violation Processing

Properties within unincorporated Cook County Property, when found to be in violation of the following:

  • Provisions of the 2009 International Building Code;
  • Provisions of the 2009 International Residential Code;
  • Provisions of the 2012 International Energy Conservation Code;
  • Provisions of the 2012 International Mechanical Code;
  • 2014 Cook County Electrical Code;
  • 2014 State of Illinois Plumbing Code;
  • Cook County Zoning Ordinance (2001)

shall be cited and will have to be brought into compliance within 30 days. 

If the violation for which you have been cited requires a permit, business occupancy, rezoning, etc., an application must be filed with the Department of Building and Zoning within 30 days of the date of violation (see date on the violation letter).

If the violation requires a re-inspection to establish compliance (junk and debris, RV or trailer on a Residential-zoned lot, etc.), please contact the violation-issuing inspector (contact information should be on the violation notice) or email:

inspections.bnz@cookcountyil.gov

violations.bnz@cookcountyil.gov

If you are sent notice to appear for a hearing or court, you are required to appear, unless your presence is waived in writing by the Department of Building and Zoning. Failure to appear at the hearing may result in a default order being entered against you and the imposition of the maximum fine provided by law for each alleged offense. As stated in 102-105.4-5, any violation of, or resistance to, or interference with the enforcement of any of the provisions of this ordinance shall be punished by a fine of not less than one hundred dollars ($100.00) nor more than one thousand dollars ($1,000.00) for each offense; and each day a violation continues to exist shall constitute a separate offense.

Please contact violations.bnz@cookcountyil.gov for further information.