Oak Park, IL Rental Property Rules: Just Cause Eviction (2026)

Oak Park does not have a standalone just-cause eviction ordinance. All evictions are governed by the Illinois Forcible Entry and Detainer Act (735 ILCS 5/9). For nonpayment of rent, landlords must serve a 5-day notice demanding payment. For lease violations, a 10-day notice to cure or quit is required. For month-to-month tenancies, either party may terminate with at least 30 days written notice. For fixed-term leases, the tenancy ends at lease expiration with no obligation to renew. All eviction lawsuits must be filed in the Cook County Circuit Court — First Municipal District. Self-help evictions including changing locks, removing belongings, shutting off utilities, or physically removing a tenant are illegal under Illinois law. Oak Park's Community Relations Department offers tenant-landlord mediation to resolve disputes before litigation. The village also enforces the Cook County Just Cause for Eviction Ordinance where applicable, which requires landlords in covered units to state a valid reason for non-renewal. Contact Community Relations at (708) 358-5683.