Insurance Requirements: Chicago vs Evanston
How do insurance requirements rules compare between Chicago, IL and Evanston, IL?
Evanston 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 →Evanston, IL
Cook County
Evanston requires short-term rental operators to maintain liability insurance coverage as a condition of licensure. Hosts must carry adequate insurance to cover guest injuries and property damage during rental periods.
View full Evanston rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chicago | Evanston |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Insurance Required | - | Yes, as condition of license |
| Coverage | - | Bodily injury and property damage |
| Standard Policies | - | May not cover STR activity |
| Proof Required | - | With license application |
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.
Evanston FAQ
Do I need insurance for my Evanston short-term rental?
Yes. Evanston requires liability insurance as a condition of the short-term rental license. Standard homeowner's policies may not cover rental activity, so a supplemental rider may be needed.
Does Airbnb insurance satisfy Evanston's requirements?
Platform-provided insurance may supplement but does not necessarily meet the city's minimum requirements. Check with Community Development at (847) 448-4311 for specific coverage levels.
What happens if my insurance lapses on my Evanston rental?
Lapsed insurance may result in suspension of your short-term rental license. You must maintain continuous coverage throughout the license period.
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