Insurance Requirements: Chicago vs Des Plaines
How do insurance requirements rules compare between Chicago, IL and Des Plaines, IL?
Des Plaines has fewer restrictions than Chicago.
Chicago, IL
Cook County
Chicago requires short-term rental hosts to maintain adequate liability insurance. The Shared Housing Ordinance (MCC 4-14) mandates that both intermediary platforms and individual hosts carry insurance covering guests and property damage.
View full Chicago rules →Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Des Plaines requires vacation rental operators to maintain general liability insurance of at least $1,000,000 per occurrence covering use of the property as a short-term rental. Proof of coverage must be filed with the registration application and kept current.
View full Des Plaines rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chicago | Des Plaines |
|---|---|---|
| Platform Liability Min. | $1 million per occurrence | - |
| Host Insurance | Homeowner's/renter's policy covering STR activity required | - |
| Code Section | MCC 4-14 | - |
| Shared Housing Surcharge | 4% on gross receipts | - |
| Hotel Tax | 4.5% on stays of 29 nights or fewer | - |
| Minimum Liability | - | $1,000,000 per occurrence |
| Type | - | Commercial GL endorsed for STR |
| Filing | - | Certificate at registration & renewal |
| Platform Coverage | - | May qualify if documented |
| Lapse Penalty | - | $500–$750/day |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Chicago FAQ
What insurance do I need to run an Airbnb in Chicago?
You need homeowner's or renter's insurance that covers short-term rental activity, or a supplemental STR policy. Platform host protection insurance alone does not satisfy the city's requirement under MCC 4-14.
What taxes apply to Chicago short-term rentals?
Chicago imposes a 4% Shared Housing Surcharge on gross receipts, plus the 4.5% Hotel Accommodation Tax and a Domestic Violence Surcharge on stays of 29 nights or fewer.
Des Plaines FAQ
How much insurance do I need for a Des Plaines vacation rental?
At least $1,000,000 per occurrence in commercial general liability coverage specifically endorsed for short-term rental use, with a certificate filed with the City.
Does my homeowners policy cover Airbnb in Des Plaines?
Standard homeowners insurance typically excludes short-term rental activity. You generally need a dedicated commercial or hybrid STR policy.
Does Airbnb's AirCover satisfy Des Plaines' insurance requirement?
Platform coverage may qualify if it meets the $1M minimum and is specifically documented in a certificate filed with the City. Confirm in writing with the platform before relying on it.
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