Birchwood Law LLC

08/19/2026

Planning to open or expand a business? Not every use is automatically allowed under local zoning laws.

A Special Use is a use not automatically permitted in a zoning district although it may be permitted if it meets specific criteria, as determined by an administrative or legislative body at a public meeting or hearing. Understanding whether you need one can save you time, money, and frustration down the road.

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08/17/2026

Delays, neighborhood opposition, incomplete applications, and compliance concerns can all impact your Special Use Permit request.

Knowing the most common obstacles before filing can help strengthen your application and improve your chances of success.

07/06/2026

Birchwood Law welcomes Associate Attorney Daniel Egan!

Daniel joined our Team after practicing zoning and land use at a boutique Chicago zoning law firm, where he handled zoning matters for developers, investors, and property owners. He has extensive experience working with architects, developers, expediters, city staff, neighborhood groups, and elected officials to move projects through the zoning and entitlement process. We are very excited to have Daniel with us!

03/18/2026

It depends. Every zoning ordinance is different. You may need a special use to operate a contractor’s yard or a different zoning designation altogether.

03/01/2026

Happy Women’s Month! Celebrating the strength, resilience, and brilliance of women who continue to shape our communities and our future.

02/25/2026

02/20/2026

02/13/2026

An easement is a legal right that allows a person or entity to use another person's property for a specific, limited purpose, without owning it. Common examples include utility easements for running lines on private land and access easements for shared driveways or pathways.

01/28/2026

To apply for a Special Use Permit in Chicago, you’ll need to submit an application to the local zoning board outlining your intended use, site plan, and how your operations will address concerns like traffic, noise, and screening. The process usually involves a public hearing where community members can give input, and the board may impose conditions such as fencing, landscaping, or restricted hours of operation. Having a clear plan and legal guidance—can make the process smoother and improve your chances of approval