Moving into a high-rise along Lake Shore Drive is exciting, but the details can pile up fast. Between elevator reservations, curbside permits, and turning on utilities, it helps to have a simple plan. This guide walks you through the Streeterville and Near North Side essentials so you can move in smoothly and start enjoying the lakefront. Let’s dive in.
Confirm address, ZIP, and ward
Streeterville sits inside the Near North Side, bordered by the Chicago River, Michigan Avenue, and Lake Michigan. If you want a quick refresher on the neighborhood footprint, review the Streeterville overview for context on boundaries and landmarks. Streeterville overview
Double-check your exact building address and ZIP. Most Streeterville buildings use 60611 or nearby 60610. The 60617 ZIP is a different part of the city, so use your building’s true ZIP for any permits, utilities, or city services. Your ward and aldermanic office are also address based.
Set up utilities early
- Electricity: Start or transfer your ComEd service a few business days before move-in. Have your address, start date, and ID ready. If a technician visit is needed, early scheduling helps. ComEd start service
- Natural gas: Peoples Gas serves most Chicago addresses. Open an account online or by phone and plan extra time if service needs a relight or inspection. Peoples Gas setup
- Water and sewer: Chicago water is billed through the city. At closings, a Full Payment Certificate and final readings can impact timelines and settlements, so confirm status early. About the Full Payment Certificate
- Internet and TV: Many high-rises are prewired or have preferred providers. Ask management which vendors are approved and whether installer access or elevator reservations are required.
Reserve elevators and building logistics
Most Streeterville towers require a service elevator reservation and a set move window. Confirm the route from loading dock to unit and request the written building rules.
Ask if your building collects a refundable move deposit and what proof of mover insurance is required. On move day, collect all keys, fobs, garage clickers, and mailbox instructions.
Plan curb access and permits
If your moving truck needs street space, request enforceable No Parking signs through the city. Some ward offices offer courtesy signs that are not enforceable, while CDOT permits allow ticketing or towing when posted properly. Build in lead time to post signs and secure your window. Chicago moving and parking rules | Ward moving sign example
Moving pods or containers cannot be left on the public way in Chicago. They must be on private property or on a movable trailer where allowed.
Vehicle stickers and permit zones
If you keep a vehicle in the city, Chicago requires a city vehicle sticker, typically within 30 days of moving or obtaining a vehicle. If your building’s block is in a residential permit zone, ask your ward office about eligibility and guest passes. City sticker and permit FAQs
Trash, recycling, and bulk items
For bulk items like furniture or mattresses, follow city procedures rather than leaving items in alleys or at the curb. Many buildings use private haulers or have designated collection points, and mattresses often must be sealed in plastic for pickup. When in doubt, use 311 or your management office to schedule. Bulk item basics
Mail and package delivery
Submit your USPS Change of Address before moving. Ask your building where packages are received and how carriers access the property. If you use a PO Box, confirm pickup hours and location.
Insurance and HOA paperwork
Many high-rises require renter’s insurance or HO-6 coverage for condo owners. Confirm minimum limits, certificate holder details, and due dates. Expect move-in forms, fees, and proof of mover insurance for elevator access.
Neighborhood basics and transit
You are near Red Line stops at Grand and Chicago, with many bus routes running along Michigan Avenue and State Street. Walking access is a big advantage downtown, so check your building’s exact proximity to transit. Transit context near the Mag Mile
Oak Street Beach, the Lakefront Trail, and Navy Pier are close at hand. Major care centers like Northwestern Memorial Hospital and Lurie Children’s are adjacent to Streeterville, which is helpful to note for urgent needs.
Safety and local contacts
Streeterville and much of the Near North Side are served by the Chicago Police Department’s 18th District. For community meetings and updates, check CAPS resources through your district and ward office. Keep non-emergency contacts handy and follow your building’s security policies.
Your move-in timeline
- 4 to 6 weeks out
- Verify address, ZIP, ward, and your building’s move rules. Reserve the service elevator and loading dock.
- Book licensed movers and request proof of insurance. If your truck needs street space, plan your CDOT permit and sign posting. Chicago moving and parking rules
- Start or transfer utilities like ComEd and Peoples Gas, and schedule internet service. ComEd start service | Peoples Gas setup
- 2 weeks out
- File your USPS Change of Address and update banks and subscriptions.
- Arrange bulk pickup, donation, or hauling for items you are not moving. Follow mattress and appliance rules. Bulk item basics
- 1 week out
- Reconfirm elevator time, building contact, mover arrival, and permit/sign status.
- Purchase supplies like mattress bags, labels, and floor protection if required.
- Move day
- Photograph unit condition on arrival for your records.
- Keep lease or closing documents, IDs, and utility account numbers on hand.
- Collect keys, fobs, parking passes, and mailbox instructions from management.
- First week after
- Check utility bills and final transfer details. If you bought, confirm any water FPC or final readings were completed at closing. About the Full Payment Certificate
- First 30 days
- If you keep a vehicle in Chicago, obtain your city vehicle sticker and explore permit parking options if applicable. City sticker and permit FAQs
- Register with your HOA, share proof of insurance, and confirm storage and bike room access.
When you are ready for a building-savvy partner along Lake Shore Drive, connect with Stephanie Maloney for boutique, Streeterville-focused guidance from contract to move-in.
FAQs
How do I start electricity and gas service for a Streeterville high-rise?
- Contact ComEd for electricity and Peoples Gas for natural gas a few business days before move-in, and have your address, start date, and ID ready.
Do I need a permit to park a moving truck near Lake Shore Drive in Streeterville?
- Yes if the truck will occupy curb space for more than a brief stop, use CDOT No Parking signs and permits for enforceability, and post them in advance.
Who handles bulk furniture or mattress disposal in the Near North Side?
- Use your building’s rules or schedule city pickup through 311, and remember mattresses often must be sealed in plastic.
What building rules should I expect for a Streeterville condo move-in?
- Plan for a reserved service elevator, defined move window, a refundable move deposit, and proof of mover insurance naming the building as additional insured.
Which CTA options serve the Near North Side lakefront?
- The Red Line at Grand and Chicago, plus frequent Michigan Avenue and State Street buses, provide quick access to the Loop and beyond.
