26th Ward Zoning Process

Alderperson Fuentes uses a community-driven zoning review process, which centers community input on 26th Ward zoning and development issues in order to ensure transparency and equity.

The 26th Ward community-driven zoning process requires that anyone requesting a zoning change must first complete a zoning intake form. Once their intake form has been reviewed, they will be invited to present their zoning request to the 26th Ward Zoning Advisory Committee, where they can answer additional questions. When applicable, the person requesting a zoning change may also be required to present their zoning request to the broader public during a community input meeting.

How to Request a Zoning Change

If you would like to request a zoning change, you can do so by completing the steps outlined here.

  1. Complete the 26th Ward Zoning Intake form, which can be found here.

  2. Present your request to the 26th Ward Zoning Advisory Committee.

    • The Zoning Advisory Committee meets the last week of every month.

  3. Provide additional information as needed.

26th Ward Zoning Advisory Committee

The 26th Ward Zoning Advisory Committee (ZAC) is a volunteer group of residents and representatives from community organizations who review zoning change requests to ensure development aligns with the needs and values of our neighborhoods. Convened by Alderperson Jessie Fuentes, the committee brings together voices from across Humboldt Park, Logan Square, Hermosa, Belmont Cragin, and West Town.

Guiding Values

The committee evaluates proposals through a community-driven and equity-focused framework grounded in:

  • Anti-Displacement & Affordability: Prioritizing developments that serve working-class families, expand affordable housing, and prevent displacement.

  • Transparent Community Engagement: Expecting zoning change applicants to engage early, clearly, and in good faith with neighbors and to incorporate community feedback.

  • Responsible & Inclusive Growth: Supporting projects that strengthen commercial corridors, create local jobs, respect cultural identity, and contribute positively to the character and vitality of the ward.

Past Zoning Change Requests

The following list includes all zoning change requests received by the 26th Ward office during Alderperson Fuentes’s first term beginning May 15, 2023.