State Rep. Robyn Gabel (D - Evanston) filed House Bill 4869 to legalize backyard homes or “accessory dwelling units” (ADUs) in the state of Illinois.

As Crain’s Chicago Business writes, this bill would “overturn half a century of resistance, paving the way for the lower-cost housing types to flourish in towns all over the state.”
 

At City Council, Ald. Peter Braithwaite (Ward 2) made a referral for staff to develop an ADU code that allows attached units - basement conversions, attic conversions, and internal units.

“Attached” ADUs have a lower average cost of construction, helping open up housing opportunities for all homeowners. Read the referral in Evanston Now’s City Council recap.
 

The City's Affordable Housing Plan Steering Committee wants to hear your thoughts on local housing challenges to help shape Evanston’s future.

Please share your feedback on housing affordability solutions in Evanston at the City of Evanston’s workshop on Thursday, March 5, at 7pm. If you can’t make the workshop, please provide your feedback via this online City survey.