Joliet — Ch. 9½ Art. I In General (Discrimination) § 9½-2
Purpose and declaration of policy
Operative Text
It is hereby declared to be the policy of Joliet, Illinois, and the purpose of this chapter, in the exercise of the City of Joliet of its police and regulatory powers for the protection of the public safety, for the health, morals, safety, and welfare of the persons in and residing in the city, and for the maintenance and promotion of commerce, industry, and good government in Joliet, Illinois, to secure to all persons living and/or working, or desiring to live and/or work in Joliet, Illinois, a fair opportunity to live without discrimination based on race, color, religion, natural origin, sex, age, or sensory, mental or physical handicap.
Section 9½-2 of Joliet's municipal code establishes the city's foundational anti-discrimination policy for housing and related activities. Under this provision, the City of Joliet declares its intent to ensure that all people who live, work, or wish to live or work in the city have a fair opportunity to do so free from discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, or sensory, mental, or physical disability. This declaration sets the overarching purpose that guides the rest of Chapter 9½.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers operating in Joliet should understand that § 9½-2 establishes the city's core policy commitment against discrimination, which underpins all subsequent requirements in Chapter 9½. Compliant operators generally ensure that their rental practices, advertising, tenant screening, and day-to-day management do not treat individuals differently on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, or disability status. Familiarity with this foundational policy statement helps operators contextualize the specific obligations that follow in the rest of the chapter.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 9½-2 reflects Joliet's declared commitment to protecting every person's right to live and work in the city free from discrimination on grounds including race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, and disability. Tenants who believe they have experienced discriminatory treatment in housing may find that this policy declaration supports complaints or claims brought under the broader Chapter 9½ framework. Those seeking to understand their rights under this provision may benefit from consulting a local tenant-rights organization or a fair housing agency familiar with Joliet's ordinances.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated November 10, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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