Chicago, Illinois
Legal but Limited
Updated February 2026
Disclaimer: General information only — not legal advice. Verify with your local government.
Key Facts
| Permit Fee | $250 annual registration fee |
| Tax Rate | 10.5% combined city tax (4.5% Hotel Accommodations + 6% Shared Housing Surcharge) + 1% Cook County |
| Day Limit | No annual limit |
| Renewal | Annual |
| Platform Tax Collection | Yes — platforms collect |
| Max Fine | $1,500–$5,000 per offense; each day is a separate offense |
Overview
Must be host's primary residence; buildings with 5+ units limited to no more than 6 STR units; Restricted Residential Zones and Prohibited Buildings List apply. $1M commercial general liability insurance required.
Explore by Category
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Airbnb legal in Chicago, Illinois?
Short-term rentals in Chicago are currently classified as "Legal but Limited." Must be host's primary residence; buildings with 5+ units limited to no more than 6 STR units; Restricted Residential Zones and Prohibited Buildings List apply. $1M commercial general liability insurance required.
How much is the STR permit in Chicago?
The permit/license fee in Chicago is $250 annual registration fee. Renewal is annual.
What taxes do Airbnb hosts pay in Chicago?
Hosts in Chicago are subject to 10.5% combined city tax (4.5% Hotel Accommodations + 6% Shared Housing Surcharge) + 1% Cook County. Major platforms like Airbnb automatically collect and remit these taxes.
What are the fines for illegal short-term rentals in Chicago?
Penalties in Chicago can include $1,500–$5,000 per offense; each day is a separate offense. Always ensure you have the required permits before listing.
Compare Chicago with Other Cities
vs Asheville , vs Atlanta , vs Austin , vs Baltimore , vs Boston , vs Charleston
Official Resources
Agency: Dept. of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection — (312) 744-6060 | Visit Official Government Page →
Download Compliance Checklist
Get a printable PDF checklist with all the requirements for Chicago.