Illinois Rent Control Law: Statewide Rental Property Rules Rules (2026)

Key Facts

Statute: 50 ILCS 825
Effective: 1997
Home Rule Preempted: Yes
Scope: Residential and commercial

Full Breakdown

The Rent Control Preemption Act (50 ILCS 825) declares that no county, municipality, or other unit of local government may enact, maintain, or enforce an ordinance or resolution that controls rent on private residential or commercial property. The Act expressly preempts the home rule powers of municipalities under Article VII of the Illinois Constitution. It applies uniformly throughout Illinois unless repealed by the General Assembly.

Violations & Penalties

Local rent control ordinances are void and unenforceable as a matter of law; landlords may seek injunctive relief and attorney fees in circuit court.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Chicago or any Illinois city pass rent control?

No. The Illinois Rent Control Preemption Act explicitly bars all units of local government, including home rule cities, from enacting or enforcing rent control.

Does the preemption apply to commercial leases?

Yes. The Act applies to both residential and commercial private property and prohibits municipal regulation of rents in either category.

Illinois Rent Control Preemption Act Bans Local Rent Caps

Key Facts

Full Breakdown

Violations & Penalties

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

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