If you’re planning a construction project, managing a commercial property, or simply curious about bathroom laws in Illinois, you’ve likely wondered: Does the Illinois State Plumbing Chic require gendered bathrooms? It’s a timely question—especially as workplaces, schools, and public buildings increasingly adopt gender-inclusive design. In this article, we’ll cut through the confusion with up-to-date legal insights, plumbing code specifics, and practical guidance that aligns with both state regulations and modern inclusivity standards.
What Does the Illinois State Plumbing Code Actually Say About Bathroom Gendering?
The Illinois State Plumbing Code is based on the 2018 edition of the International Plumbing Code (IPC), adopted with state-specific amendments. Importantly, the code itself does not mandate that bathrooms be labeled or separated by gender.
Instead, the code focuses on fixture counts, accessibility, ventilation, plumbing materials, and sanitation—not gender identity or bathroom labeling. Requirements like the number of toilets per occupant are strictly numerical and apply regardless of gender.
For example:
- Assembly spaces with 1–15 occupants need at least one water closet.
- For 16–35 occupants, two water closets are required.
- These counts apply per gender only if separate facilities are provided—but the code allows for single-user, all-gender restrooms as an alternative.
Key Takeaway: Illinois plumbing regulations are performance-based, not identity-based. Gendered bathrooms are permitted, but not required by plumbing code.
Are There Any State Laws That Override Plumbing Code on Bathroom Gendering?
While plumbing code doesn’t require gendered restrooms, you might wonder: Do other Illinois laws affect this?
Yes—but in the opposite direction.
In 2019, Illinois passed the Restroom Access Act, which supports inclusive access. More significantly, the Illinois Human Rights Act (amended in 2015 and expanded in 2023) explicitly prohibits discrimination based on gender identity in public accommodations, including restrooms.
This means:
- Businesses cannot deny access to restrooms based on gender identity.
- Single-occupancy restrooms (with a lockable door and one toilet/sink) must be labeled as gender-neutral under Illinois law (Public Act 100-0574, effective Jan 1, 2018).
So while plumbing code is neutral, state civil rights law actively encourages (and in some cases mandates) gender-inclusive facilities—especially for single-user restrooms.
How Do Local Ordinances in Chicago or Other Cities Affect This?
Local governments in Illinois often go further than state code.
Chicago, for example, enacted a Gender-Inclusive Restroom Ordinance in 2016 requiring:
- All single-user public restrooms in city buildings and private businesses to be labeled gender-neutral.
- New construction or major renovations must include gender-inclusive options in multi-stall facilities (e.g., at least one all-gender restroom per floor in large buildings).
Other cities like Evanston, Urbana, and Springfield have similar policies for municipal facilities.
💡 Pro Tip: Always check your municipal building or health department—local rules may impose stricter inclusivity requirements than state plumbing code.
Common Misconceptions: Plumbing Code vs. Building Code vs. Civil Rights Law
Many people confuse plumbing code, building code, and anti-discrimination law. Here’s a clear breakdown:
| Code/Law Type | Focus Area | Gender Requirement? |
|---|---|---|
| Plumbing Code | Pipes, fixtures, sanitation | No – silent on gender |
| Building Code | Structural safety, egress | No – but may reference ADA |
| Civil Rights Law | Anti-discrimination | Yes – protects gender identity |
| Local Ordinances | Public health, equity | Often yes – mandates inclusivity |
For more on how plumbing codes evolve nationally, see the International Plumbing Code overview on Wikipedia.
Practical Steps for Compliance: What Should Property Owners Do?
If you’re managing or developing a property in Illinois, follow these steps to stay compliant and inclusive:
- Assess Restroom Type
- Single-user restrooms? Must be labeled gender-neutral under Illinois law.
- Multi-stall restrooms? You may keep traditional gendered labels—but offering at least one all-gender option improves accessibility and aligns with best practices.
- Update Signage
Replace “Men”/“Women” signs on single-user restrooms with inclusive symbols (e.g., a toilet icon or “All-Gender Restroom”). - Verify Fixture Counts
Ensure your total number of fixtures meets IPC requirements without assuming binary gender splits. Example: A cafe with 50 daily visitors needs two water closets total—not necessarily “one for men, one for women.” - Train Staff
Educate employees on Illinois Human Rights Act provisions so they know transgender and nonbinary guests have the right to use facilities matching their identity. - Consult Local Authorities
In Chicago or other progressive municipalities, additional permits or design reviews may be required for new builds.
Benefits of Gender-Inclusive Restrooms (Beyond Compliance)
Switching to inclusive restrooms isn’t just legally smart—it’s good for business and community well-being:
✅ Safer for transgender and nonbinary individuals (48% report harassment in gendered restrooms, per National Center for Transgender Equality)
✅ Reduces wait times (especially for women, who often face longer lines)
✅ Improves accessibility for caregivers, parents with children of different genders, and people with disabilities needing assistance
✅ Enhances brand reputation—73% of U.S. consumers prefer inclusive businesses (Edelman Trust Barometer, 2025)
FAQ Section
Q: Does the Illinois plumbing code require separate bathrooms for men and women?
A: No. The plumbing code sets minimum fixture requirements but does not require gender separation. It allows single-user or multi-user all-gender restrooms.
Q: Are single-stall restrooms required to be gender-neutral in Illinois?
A: Yes. Since January 1, 2018, Illinois law mandates that all single-occupancy public restrooms be labeled as gender-neutral.
Q: Can a business refuse restroom access based on gender identity?
A: No. The Illinois Human Rights Act prohibits discrimination in public accommodations, including restrooms, based on gender identity.
Q: Do I need to remodel existing multi-stall bathrooms to be gender-neutral?
A: Not necessarily. Existing gendered multi-stall restrooms can remain, but adding at least one all-gender option is encouraged—and may be required in new construction in cities like Chicago.
Q: What signage is acceptable for gender-neutral restrooms in Illinois?
A: Use clear, inclusive symbols like a toilet, “All-Gender Restroom,” or a combination of traditional icons. Avoid gendered silhouettes.
Q: How does ADA compliance intersect with gender-inclusive design?
A: ADA requires accessible fixtures (grab bars, turning radius, etc.), which apply equally to all restrooms. Gender-inclusive restrooms often better serve people with disabilities who need caregiver assistance across genders.
Conclusion
So, does the Illinois State Plumbing Code require gendered bathrooms? The short answer is no—and the longer answer is even more empowering: Illinois law actually supports and, in many cases, requires inclusive restroom access.
By understanding the distinction between plumbing regulations and civil rights protections, property owners and developers can create spaces that are not only code-compliant but also welcoming, equitable, and future-ready.
If this guide helped clarify your bathroom compliance concerns, share it with a colleague, contractor, or local business owner—because inclusive design starts with informed decisions. 💧🚻
Stay compliant. Stay inclusive. Build better.
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