CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- The Chicago City Council has approved coach houses, repealing a ban from more than 60-years ago.
Coach houses, typically smaller single-family homes at the rear of properties, have not been allowed in Chicago since 1957. While there are many all over the city, those date to before the ban or were built illegally.
On Wednesday, City Council approved a pilot program allowing coach houses and basement or attic apartments in five broad areas of the city.
Mayor Lori Lightfoot had proposed the program, and it was endorsed Tuesday by two aldermanic committees. Council approval was overwhelming, with only two “no” votes: 15th Ward Ald. Ray Lopez and 11th Ward Ald. Patrick Daley Thompson.
For some homeowners, this could allow them to stay in their homes by earning rent.
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Supporters believe it will increase the supply of affordable living space, help multigenerational families stay together, and let longtime homeowners earn income from rents.
Critics fear some neighborhoods could be changed.