Chicago, Ill., Mun. Code ch. 7-28 § 7-28-690
Unlawful to remove rat-stoppage (Chicago Health Nuisances Ordinance)
Operative Text
It shall be unlawful for the owner, occupant, contractor, public utility company, plumber, or any other person, to remove the rat-stoppage from any building or structure for any purpose and fail to restore the same in satisfactory condition, or to make any new openings that are not closed or sealed against the entrance of rats. (Prior code § 99-61.5)
Under Chicago, Ill., Mun. Code ch. 7-28 § 7-28-690, it is unlawful for any owner, occupant, contractor, utility company, plumber, or other person to remove rat-stoppage materials from a building without fully restoring them, or to create new openings that are left unsealed against rat entry. The rule applies broadly to anyone who disturbs existing pest-exclusion measures during construction, repair, or utility work. Its effect is to maintain continuous protection against rodent intrusion in Chicago buildings.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers subject to Chicago, Ill., Mun. Code ch. 7-28 § 7-28-690 generally ensure that any contractor, plumber, or utility worker who disturbs rat-stoppage materials during work on the property restores those materials to a satisfactory condition before the job is considered complete. Compliant operators typically include rat-stoppage restoration requirements in work orders and inspect affected areas after any project that involves penetrations or openings in walls, floors, or foundations. Keeping documentation of pre- and post-work conditions can help demonstrate ongoing compliance with this provision.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Chicago, Ill., Mun. Code ch. 7-28 § 7-28-690 gives tenants a basis to raise concerns when rat-stoppage materials have been removed or new openings have been left unsealed following work in or around their building. Tenants who observe such conditions may report them to the City of Chicago's 311 service or the relevant municipal inspection authority, which can investigate potential violations. Tenant-rights organizations in Chicago can also help residents understand what remedies or complaint processes may be available under this provision.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated September 18, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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