Back to Resources

What is Chicago's Non-Emergency Phone Number?

The Importance of 311 for Non-Emergency Situations

On a chilly evening in Chicago, Maria noticed a streetlight flickering outside her apartment. She wondered if she should call 911, but she remembered hearing about a different number for such non-urgent matters. That number is 311. In Chicago, the 311 non-emergency phone number connects residents to city services and information, helping keep the 911 lines open for true emergencies.

Understanding 311

The 311 service in Chicago is designed to handle non-emergency situations. It provides a direct line to city services, allowing residents to report issues like potholes, graffiti, or noise complaints. The service operates 24/7, ensuring that residents can access assistance at any time.

Statistics show the importance of 311. In 2020, Chicago's 311 system handled over 3.4 million service requests. The most common calls were for sanitation issues, accounting for 28% of all requests.

When to Use 311

  • Reporting Non-Urgent Issues: Use 311 for problems like broken streetlights, abandoned vehicles, or graffiti. These issues need attention but are not life-threatening.
  • Accessing City Services: 311 can help with inquiries about city services, such as garbage collection schedules or information on public transportation.
  • General Information: If you need information about city events, building permits, or public health services, 311 is your go-to resource.

When to Use 911

911 is reserved for emergencies. Call 911 if there is an immediate threat to life or property. Situations that warrant a 911 call include:

  • Medical Emergencies: Heart attacks, severe injuries, or any situation requiring immediate medical attention.
  • Crimes in Progress: Burglaries, assaults, or any crime where there is a direct threat to someone's safety.
  • Fires: Any fire, whether in a building, vehicle, or outdoors, should be reported to 911.

When to not use 311

You cannot use 311 to obtain a Chicago Police Report. That's where we come in! We help by submitting your request for a police report. By using Chicago Police Report, you can ensure that you have all the information you need for insurance claims, legal matters, or personal records, without having to go down to central headquarters or fill out the forms yourself.

How to contact 311

Conclusion

In conclusion, knowing when to use 311 versus 911 is crucial for every Chicago resident. It helps maintain public safety and improves city services. So, the next time you encounter a non-emergency issue in Chicago, will you know which number to call?