ADU Rules in Evanston, Illinois

Evanston is a Cook County city of about 74,000 immediately north of Chicago on Lake Michigan, home to Northwestern University. Evanston is known for progressive urban policies and has been a leader among Chicago suburbs in expanding ADU allowances to increase housing affordability. Illinois has no statewide ADU preemption law — Evanston's local zoning governs.

Evanston ADU Policy

Evanston has expanded ADU allowances in its Zoning Ordinance (Title 6) to permit:

• Coach houses: Detached ADUs in rear yards (alley-accessible lots in Evanston's grid)
• Attached ADUs: Additions with separate entrance
• Interior conversions: Basement, attic, or floor conversion within existing structure

Evanston's policy has been to allow ADUs by right in most residential zones — verify current specifics with the Community Development Department.

Permitted ADU Types

Size Limits

Per Evanston Zoning Ordinance:

• Coach house / detached ADU: Maximum floor area per zone (verify current standard)
• Height limits for detached structures apply

Verify current size limits with Evanston Community Development.

Setbacks

Per Evanston residential zone:

• Rear: Minimum setback (alley setback applies for coach houses)
• Side: Per base zone
• Evanston's grid layout with alleys makes rear-yard coach houses feasible on many lots

Parking

Evanston has reduced or eliminated parking requirements for ADUs near transit in certain zones, consistent with transit-oriented development goals. Verify current parking requirements with the city.

Lakefront and Flood Considerations

Properties along Lake Michigan may be in FEMA flood zones. Verify flood map status for lakefront properties.

Historic Districts

Evanston has multiple historic districts. Properties in historic districts require review by the Preservation Commission for exterior changes. Interior conversions may have less review burden.

Rental Registration

Evanston requires registration of rental properties. If the ADU will be rented, verify current rental registration requirements.

Permit Process

1. Verify ADU eligibility: Evanston Community Development (ADUs allowed broadly in residential zones)
2. Historic review: If in a designated historic district
3. Submit plans: Evanston Permit Center
4. Zoning review and building permit
5. Rental registration: If applicable
6. Inspections and CO: Required before occupancy

Contact

City of Evanston Community Development Department 2100 Ridge Avenue, Evanston, IL 60201 Phone: (847) 448-4311 Website: cityofevanston.org

Disclaimer: Evanston's ADU policies have evolved in recent years. Verify current ADU allowances, size limits, and parking requirements with the City of Evanston Community Development Department before starting any project.