Registration Rules: Des Plaines vs Oak Park
How do registration rules rules compare between Des Plaines, IL and Oak Park, IL?
Des Plaines and Oak Park have similar restriction levels.
Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Every short-term rental in Des Plaines must register annually with the City's Community & Economic Development Department before listing. The registration requires a designated 24/7 local contact, proof of $1M liability insurance, a fire/life-safety inspection, and a one-time and annual fee. Listings must display the registration number.
View full Des Plaines rules →Oak Park, IL
Cook County
All short-term rental operators in Oak Park must register with the Village and obtain a Short-Term Rental License before beginning operations. Registration requires submitting an application, passing a building inspection, and providing documentation including proof of ownership, primary residence status, insurance, and tax registration. The license must be renewed annually.
View full Oak Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Des Plaines | Oak Park |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Registration | Required before listing | - |
| Insurance | $1M liability | - |
| Local Contact | Within 30 miles, 24/7 | - |
| Inspection | Fire/life-safety required | Building Dept. inspection required |
| Fine for Unregistered | $500–$750/day | - |
| Registration | - | Required before any rental activity |
| Annual Renewal | - | Yes — with updated documentation |
| License Display | - | Must appear on all listings |
| Contact | - | (708) 358-5670 Village Clerk |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Des Plaines FAQ
Do I need a permit to run an Airbnb in Des Plaines?
Yes. Every short-term rental must register annually with Community & Economic Development before listing. Registration includes insurance, a local contact, and a safety inspection.
How do I register a vacation rental in Des Plaines?
Apply through the Community & Economic Development Department at (847) 391-5380. Submit the application with proof of $1M liability insurance, local contact info, and schedule a fire and life-safety inspection.
What is the penalty for running an unregistered Airbnb in Des Plaines?
Fines of $500 to $750 per day of operation, plus potential cease-and-desist orders and platform takedowns.
Oak Park FAQ
How do I register my short-term rental in Oak Park IL?
Contact the Village Clerk at (708) 358-5670 to obtain an application. You'll need proof of ownership, primary residence documentation, liability insurance, and Illinois tax registration. A building inspection must be completed before the license is issued.
How often do I need to renew my short-term rental license in Oak Park?
The license must be renewed annually. Renewal requires updated insurance documentation, payment of renewal fees, and any applicable re-inspection of the property.
Is there a public registry of Airbnb properties in Oak Park?
Yes. The Village maintains a registry of licensed short-term rental properties. This helps neighbors and the community verify that rentals in their area are properly licensed.
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