Permit Requirements: Evanston vs Skokie
How do permit requirements rules compare between Evanston, IL and Skokie, IL?
Evanston and Skokie have similar restriction levels.
Evanston, IL
Cook County
Evanston requires a Short-Term Rental License for any rental of a dwelling unit for fewer than 30 consecutive days. The license is issued by the Community Development Department and must be renewed annually. Only owner-occupied or owner-authorized properties are eligible, and listings must display the license number.
View full Evanston 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 | Evanston | Skokie |
|---|---|---|
| License Required | Yes — before listing | - |
| Renewal | Annual | - |
| Safety Inspection | Required | - |
| 24/7 Contact | Required local contact | - |
| Fine (No License) | $150–$500/day | - |
| 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.
Evanston FAQ
Do I need a permit for Airbnb in Evanston IL?
Yes. Evanston requires a Short-Term Rental License for any rental under 30 days. Apply through Community Development at (847) 448-4311 before listing your property.
What does Evanston's STR license require?
You need proof of ownership/authorization, insurance, a floor plan, a 24/7 local contact, and the property must pass a safety inspection for smoke detectors, CO detectors, and fire extinguishers.
What happens if I operate without a license in Evanston?
Operating without an STR license carries fines of $150 to $500 per day of violation. The city actively monitors platforms for unlicensed listings.
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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