Occupancy Limits: Chicago vs Evanston
How do occupancy limits rules compare between Chicago, IL and Evanston, IL?
Evanston has fewer restrictions than Chicago.
Chicago, IL
Cook County
Chicago's Shared Housing Ordinance (MCC 4-13 and 4-14) establishes occupancy limits for short-term rentals. The 2024 amendments added explicit maximum occupancy requirements for shared housing units and vacation rentals.
View full Chicago rules →Evanston, IL
Cook County
Evanston regulates the number of guests permitted in short-term rental properties. Occupancy limits are tied to the number of bedrooms and must comply with the city's licensing requirements for vacation rentals and shared housing units.
View full Evanston rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chicago | Evanston |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | MCC 4-13, 4-14 | - |
| Primary Residence | Required for shared housing units | - |
| Guest Register | Required for all STR hosts | - |
| Fine Range | $1,500 - $5,000 per offense | - |
| 2024 Amendments | Added explicit occupancy limits and monthly reporting | - |
| Occupancy Standard | - | Generally 2 per bedroom |
| Maximum | - | Per building and fire code |
| Disclosure | - | Must be posted in listing |
| Licensing | - | Annual renewal required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Chicago FAQ
How many guests can I host in a Chicago short-term rental?
Occupancy is generally limited to 2 persons per bedroom under the Shared Housing Ordinance. The 2024 amendments to MCC 4-13 added explicit maximum occupancy requirements that must be reported monthly.
Do I need to keep a guest register for my Airbnb in Chicago?
Yes. Chicago's Shared Housing Ordinance requires hosts to maintain a guest register with names and dates of stay. This must be available for inspection by authorized city officials.
Can any building in Chicago host short-term rentals?
No. Approximately 1,000 buildings were banned from hosting STRs under the 2016 ordinance. Additionally, condo associations and landlords can prohibit STRs. Tenants must have written landlord permission.
Evanston FAQ
How many guests can stay in an Evanston short-term rental?
Occupancy is generally limited to two persons per bedroom, not exceeding the building and fire code limits for the unit. The licensed capacity must be disclosed in the listing.
What happens if I exceed the occupancy limit in my Evanston rental?
Exceeding licensed occupancy limits may result in fines, license suspension, or revocation. Repeated violations can lead to permanent revocation of the rental license.
Do I need a license for a short-term rental in Evanston?
Yes. Evanston requires a short-term rental license with annual renewal. Contact Community Development at (847) 448-4311 for application requirements.
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