Land Use & Zoning

What is a 'planned development' (PD) in Chicago zoning and why is it used?

AA residential subdivision requiring city planning department approval
BA zoning mechanism for large or complex developments requiring Chicago Planning Department review to customize standards beyond base zoning requirements✓ Correct
CA government-owned development project in the Chicago metro area
DA historical preservation zoning designation for Chicago landmarks

Explanation

A Planned Development (PD) in Chicago zoning is used for larger or more complex developments that require review by the Chicago Planning Department and approval by the Chicago Plan Commission. PDs allow negotiated departure from standard zoning requirements in exchange for providing public benefits (public space, affordable housing, streetscape improvements). Many significant Chicago real estate projects—high-rises, mixed-use developments—are processed as PDs.

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