Yes, Chicago is situated near several fault lines, but it is not directly on a major fault line like those found in California. The region does experience seismic activity, primarily from the New Madrid Seismic Zone located to the south in Missouri and the Wabash Valley Seismic Zone to the southeast in Indiana.
Although the risks of significant earthquakes in Chicago are relatively low compared to other areas of the country, the city is still vulnerable to tremors and shaking from distant earthquakes. The underlying geology, including the presence of ancient rift valleys and faults, contributes to this susceptibility. Understanding these geological features is crucial for urban planning and building regulations in the region.