Short-term rental permit rules in Chicago, IL — also called Airbnb permits, vacation rental licenses, or STR registration — list the application steps, fees, and operating requirements for hosting.
Chicago Shared Housing Ordinance requires registration for STR (stays <32 days). Primary residence required (245 days/year). Registration $125; Shared Housing Unit Operator License $250 for multiple units. MCC Chapter 4-14.
Chicago's Shared Housing Ordinance (MCC Chapter 4-14, amended by SO2024-0013637) requires hosts renting for fewer than 32 consecutive days to register with the City. Primary residence defined as host's dwelling for at least 245 days/year. Registration fee: $125. Shared Housing Unit Operator License (for multiple units): $250. Vacation Rental License (for non-primary/investment properties) issued by BACP. Registration number must appear on all advertisements. Guest records kept 3 years minimum.
Operating without registration: fines starting at $1,500.
Chicago, IL
Chicago Building Code Chapter 13-196 requires approved smoke alarms in every residential unit: at least one on each story (including basement), within 15 fee...
Chicago, IL
Chicago has no ordinance specific to residential lawn ornaments, statuary, or year-round decorations. Landmark Commission approval is required only for perma...
Chicago, IL
Chicago has no ordinance specific to residential holiday inflatables. Inflator-motor noise after hours is enforced under MCC Section 8-32 (noise), and sidewa...
Chicago, IL
Chicago has no ordinance regulating residential holiday light display windows or brightness. Property maintenance complaints are handled under MCC Section 13...
Chicago, IL
Chicago requires Department of Buildings permits for outdoor kitchens with gas piping, electrical wiring, or plumbing under MCC Chapter 14A. Trade work must ...
Chicago, IL
Chicago has no ordinance specifically regulating residential smokers or wood-fired ovens. Smoke nuisance is enforced under Chicago Municipal Code Section 11-...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Cook County.
See how other cities in Cook County handle permit requirements.
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