Overview

Yes, short-term rentals are allowed in Forest Park, Illinois. However, the village does not currently have specific laws governing short-term rentals like Airbnb or Vrbo listings. Instead, short-term rental operators must comply with general rental property regulations, state-level tax requirements, and any applicable homeowners association rules.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Forest Park, IL

Starting a short-term rental business in Forest Park follows a similar process to traditional rental properties, with additional considerations for the short-term rental model:

Step 1: Property Selection and Due Diligence

• Verify zoning compliance with the village's zoning regulations
• Review any homeowners association (HOA) or condominium association rules that may restrict short-term rentals
• Confirm the property meets all local building and safety codes
• Assess market demand for short-term accommodations in the specific neighborhood

Step 2: Obtain Required Documentation

• Secure a rental license from the Village of Forest Park
• Complete annual inspections as required for rental properties
• Ensure compliance with health and safety standards
• Obtain appropriate insurance coverage for short-term rental operations

Step 3: Tax Registration and Compliance

• Register with Illinois state authorities to collect the required 6.25% use tax on short-term accommodations
• Set up proper tax collection and remittance systems
• Consider consulting with a tax professional regarding federal and state tax obligations

Step 4: Operational Setup

• Implement safety measures and guest screening procedures
• Develop house rules that comply with local regulations
• Establish cleaning and maintenance protocols
• Create guest communication systems and emergency procedures

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Local Requirements (Village of Forest Park)

1. Rental License

• Required for all rental properties in Forest Park
• Must be renewed annually
• Contact the village for specific application requirements and fees

2. Annual Inspections

• Properties must pass annual inspections to maintain rental license
• Inspections cover health, safety, and code compliance
• Properties must meet all relevant building codes and safety standards

3. General Compliance Requirements

• Properties must meet all local building codes
• Health and safety standards must be maintained
• Compliance with fire safety regulations

State Requirements (Illinois)

1. Use Tax Collection

• Illinois requires short-term rental hosts to collect a 6.25% use tax on the rental price
• This applies to all short-term accommodations regardless of property type
• Hosts must register with the Illinois Department of Revenue to collect and remit these taxes

2. Business Registration

• May be required depending on rental income levels
• Consult with tax professionals for specific requirements

Federal Requirements

1. Income Reporting

• All rental income must be reported on federal tax returns
• Consider consulting with a CPA for tax planning strategies

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

Village of Forest Park

• No specific short-term rental ordinance - general rental property regulations apply
• Standard rental licensing and inspection requirements
• Compliance with all applicable building and safety codes

Cook County

• The Cook County Residential Tenant Landlord Ordinance (RTLO) primarily applies to traditional rental relationships (typically 30+ days)
• While not specifically targeting short-term rentals, the RTLO provides important context for rental regulations in suburban Cook County, including Forest Park
• Some RTLO provisions may still apply depending on the specific arrangements

State of Illinois

• 6.25% use tax on short-term accommodation rentals
• Compliance with all state health and safety regulations
• Adherence to any applicable business licensing requirements

Important Considerations

1. Homeowners Association Rules

• Many properties in Forest Park may be subject to HOA or condo association rules
• These associations may have specific restrictions on short-term rentals
• Critical: Always review and comply with association bylaws before listing

2. Zoning Compliance

• Ensure the property is located in an appropriate zoning district for rental use
• Some residential zones may have restrictions on commercial activities

Contact Information for Local Authority

Village of Forest Park

Main Office:

• Phone: 708-366-2323
• Email: contact@forestpark.net
• Address: 517 Des Plaines Avenue, Forest Park, Illinois 60130
• Hours: Monday - Friday, 8 am until 5 pm (closed weekends)
• Fax: 708-488-0361

Online Resources:

• Village Website: www.forestpark.net/dfp/
• Village Codes: www.forestpark.net/dfp/village-codes/
• Online Codebook: codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/forestparkil/latest/overview
• Contact Page: www.forestpark.net/dfp/contact/

Departments Relevant to Rentals:

• Building Department - For permits and inspections
• Finance Department - For licensing and tax questions
• Village Clerk - For general licensing requirements

Source Links

Village of Forest Park Resources:

• Village Main Website: www.forestpark.net/dfp/
• Village Codes: www.forestpark.net/dfp/village-codes/
• Online Codebook: codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/forestparkil/latest/overview
• Contact Information: www.forestpark.net/dfp/contact/
• Building Permit Information: www.forestpark.net/dfp/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/VOFPBuildingPermit102819_1.pdf

Illinois State Resources:

• Illinois Department of Revenue (Tax Information): www2.illinois.gov/sites/nor/

Market Information:

• Summer Vacation Rental Management (Forest Park Market Overview): www.gosummer.com/vacation-rental-management/forest-park-illinois

Community Information:

• BiggerPockets Forum Discussion: www.biggerpockets.com/forums/664/topics/709222-airbnb-rules-in-forest-park-il

Cook County Resources:

• Cook County Residential Tenant Landlord Ordinance: www.cookcountyil.gov/rtlo

This guide is based on information available as of the content provided. Regulations and requirements can change, so it's essential to verify current requirements with local authorities before proceeding with any short-term rental business.