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Aurora, IL Rental Property Rules: Rental Registration (2026)

Significant Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified August 2026

Key Facts

Requirement
City rental license before leasing
Applies to
Non-owner-occupied units citywide
License expires
August 31 each year
Max fine
$1,000 per unit per day

Summary

Landlords in Aurora, Illinois (Kane County) must obtain a city license before renting out any non-owner-occupied unit, from a single rental home to a full apartment building.

It is unlawful for any person to operate or maintain any non-owner occupied residential unit, two-family or multiple-family building, whether vacant or not, without first obtaining a license for such property. Licenses shall be for an entire structure, complex of buildings, or any sub-part thereof.

A.  City of Aurora Rental Application Renewals shall require, Trustee(s) and LLC agent(s) disclosure, all owner contacts, plot plans (for lodging houses), Eighteen (18) year old and older occupant's full names and contact information, total number of occupants including minors, plus other data as required by the code official.

B.  New City of Aurora Rental Applications; in addition to the items required for renewal, new applications shall require, Floor plans with room designations and dimensions, egress and fire safety components, total occupant load, plot plans, plus other data as required by the code official.

Full Breakdown

Aurora's home-rule Property Maintenance Code requires a license for every non-owner-occupied residential unit, two-family building, or multi-family building in the city, whether vacant or occupied, before it is operated as a rental. Licenses cover an entire structure, a complex of buildings, or any sub-part of one, and are administered by the Property Standards code official; most owner-occupied single-family homes are separately exempt from licensure.

Violations & Fines

Renting without a license risks refusal, suspension or revocation of the license, plus fines up to $1,000 per unit per day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which rentals need a license?
Any non-owner-occupied residential unit, including two-family and multi-family buildings, whether vacant or occupied.
Are owner-occupied homes exempt?
Yes: most owner-occupied and certain family-occupied properties are exempt from licensing, though some must still register.

Sources & Official References

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Significant Restrictions