Chicago, IL Short-Term Rentals: Noise Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Quiet hours
- 8 p.m. to 8 a.m.
- Noise standard
- louder than conversation at 100 ft
- Nuisance fine
- $2,500-$5,000 per offense
- Enforcing agency
- Dept. of Business Affairs & Consumer Protection
- Repeat violations
- can suspend unit registration
Summary
Chicago's shared housing ordinance bans excessive loud noise from short-term rentals between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m., measured against a 100-foot conversational-level standard, with fines against the host.
"Excessive loud noise" means: (1) any sound generated between the hours of 8:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. from within the shared housing unit or on any private open space having a nexus to the shared housing unit that is louder than average conversational level at a distance of 100 feet or more, measured vertically or horizontally from the property line of the shared housing unit or private open space, as applicable; or (2) any sound generated on the public way immediately adjacent to the shared housing unit...
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-74: Current through Council Journal of June 17, 2026).
Full Breakdown
The Municipal Code defines "excessive loud noise" for shared housing units (Airbnb-type rentals) as any sound from inside the unit or its private outdoor space between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m. that is louder than average conversation at 100 feet or more from the property line, plus vibration and public-way noise tied to Chicago's general noise code. Excessive loud noise counts as an "objectionable condition," and a host who permits it as a nuisance faces a fine of $2,500 to $5,000 per offense, with each day a separate violation. Two nuisance incidents at the same unit within 12 months can also trigger registration suspension.
Violations & Fines
Fine of $2,500 to $5,000 per offense for permitting a nuisance (including excessive loud noise); each day of continuing violation is a separate offense; repeat nuisances can suspend or revoke the unit's registration.
Frequently Asked Questions
What counts as excessive loud noise at a Chicago short-term rental?
What happens if a host allows loud parties at a shared housing unit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Chicago
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