Questions about Chicago,IL Zoning Rules

[Ronald Daley]

Hello,

I am new to investing and in the process of buying my first multi-family property in Chicago.I’m currently researching Chicago zoning so that I have a better understanding of the law, and my options as an investor. I’m hoping someone can assist me with answering the below questions:

1.) Is it possible for a 3-4 unit to be legally in a RS (single residential) zone? If so, what are the exceptions and how would I find out this info on property when searching?

2.) If a property is in an RS zone, and the property has what appears to be the opportunity to add 3-4 units, from my understanding this would be prohibited unless approval is granted by the Alderman. Is my understanding correct?

3.) Why are there so many 3-4 unit properties listed in RS zones in Chicago if they are not legal?

4.) How concerned should I be about the properties zoning when looking into property?

Below you will find two of the resources I used:

https://gisapps.cityofchicago.org/ZoningMapWeb/?li...

http://library.amlegal.com/nxt/gateway.dll/Illinoi...