MUNI CD-ZONING-MIDDLE HOUSING

The bill requires cities in Illinois with populations over 25,000 to permit the construction of middle housing types, like duplexes and townhouses, on larger residential lots starting in 2026. For cities with populations between 10,000 and 25,000, it mandates the allowance of duplexes on lots where single-family homes are allowed. Municipalities can set rules about the design and placement of these homes but cannot make it too costly or slow to build them.

IL HB1814 is a house bill in the Illinois 104th General Assembly, sponsored by Robert Rita (D), currently “Introduced” since January 28, 2025.

We track 10,846 Illinois bills this session, 57 of them sponsored by Robert Rita.

The key recorded vote (House, March 20, 2025) ended 5–4 and passed.

Supporters of the bill argue that it promotes affordable housing options and encourages diverse communities by allowing more middle housing types. They believe this will help address housing shortages and provide more choices for families and individuals looking for homes.

Critics contend that the bill undermines local control by limiting home rule powers and imposing state-level mandates on local zoning. They fear that the regulations may lead to overcrowding and strain on local resources, as municipalities might struggle to accommodate the increased density of housing.

Source: LegiScan roll call vote data.