Chicago vs Skokie
How do permit requirements rules compare between Chicago, IL and Skokie, IL?
Chicago and Skokie have similar restriction levels.
Chicago, IL
Cook County
Chicago Shared Housing Ordinance requires registration for STR (stays <32 days). Primary residence required (245 days/year). Registration $125; Shared Housing Unit Operator License $250 for multiple units. MCC Chapter 4-14.
View full Chicago rules →Skokie, IL
Cook County
Skokie adopted a short-term rental pilot ordinance in early 2026 establishing an 18-month licensing program running from May 1, 2026 through October 31, 2027. Operators must obtain a $1,200 Village license, register existing units by April 1, and pay registration fees of $2,400 (owner-occupied) or $3,600 (non-owner-occupied).
View full Skokie rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chicago | Skokie |
|---|---|---|
| Code | MCC §§4-13, 4-14 (amended SO2024-0013637) | - |
| Registration Fee | $125 | - |
| Multiple Units License | $250 (Shared Housing Operator) | - |
| Primary Residence | Must occupy 245+ days/year | - |
| Definition | Stays under 32 consecutive days | - |
| No Permit Fine | Starting at $1,500 | - |
| Operator License | - | $1,200 |
| Registration Fee (Owner-Occupied) | - | $2,400 |
| Registration Fee (Non-Owner-Occupied) | - | $3,600 |
| Pilot Period | - | May 1, 2026 – Oct 31, 2027 |
| Max Fine | - | $1,500 per offense |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Chicago FAQ
Do I need a permit to list my property on Airbnb in Chicago?
Chicago Shared Housing Ordinance requires registration for STR (stays <32 days). Primary residence required (245 days/year). Registration $125; Shared Housing Unit Operator License $250 for multiple units. MCC Chapter 4-14.
What are the short-term rental registration requirements in Chicago?
Code: MCC §§4-13, 4-14 (amended SO2024-0013637). Registration Fee: $125. Multiple Units License: $250 (Shared Housing Operator). Primary Residence: Must occupy 245+ days/year.
Skokie FAQ
Do I need a permit to run an Airbnb in Skokie IL?
Yes. Skokie's 2026 STR pilot ordinance requires a $1,200 operator license, a building inspection, completion of a Village training program, and notice to all properties within 250 feet. Existing operators had to register by April 1, 2026.
Can I start a new Airbnb in Skokie as an investor?
No. New investor-owned STRs are prohibited under the pilot program. Only existing registered investor-owned units may continue, and new licenses are limited to owner-occupied properties at one per block.
What happens if I run an unlicensed STR in Skokie?
Fines run up to $1,500 per offense, and repeat violations can result in license revocation and cease-and-desist orders through administrative adjudication.
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