Illinois Just Cause Eviction Law: Statewide Rental Property Rules Rules (2026)

Key Facts

Statute: 735 ILCS 5/9
Nonpayment Notice: 5 days minimum
Self-help: Prohibited statewide
Enforcement: County sheriff only

Full Breakdown

Article IX of the Code of Civil Procedure (735 ILCS 5/9) governs evictions. Landlords must serve a 5-day notice for nonpayment, 10-day notice for lease violations, or 30/60/90-day notice for terminating month-to-month or longer tenancies depending on tenancy length. Self-help eviction is barred by 735 ILCS 5/9-101 et seq.; only the sheriff may execute an order of possession. Local just-cause ordinances may add protections but cannot reduce these statewide minimums.

Violations & Penalties

Illegal lockouts are Class C misdemeanors and may also subject landlords to civil damages, including actual damages and attorney fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a landlord change locks to evict a tenant in Illinois?

No. The Illinois Eviction Act requires court process and sheriff enforcement; lockouts, utility shutoffs, and similar self-help are prohibited statewide.

Do local just-cause ordinances override state notice rules?

Local ordinances may add protections such as longer notices or relocation assistance, but they cannot shorten the minimum statutory notice periods set by 735 ILCS 5/9.

Illinois Eviction Act Standardizes Statewide Eviction Procedure

Key Facts

Full Breakdown

Violations & Penalties

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

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