Illinois Rental Fee Law 2027: What Renters and Landlords Should Know

A new statewide fee framework takes effect in 2027

Illinois Public Act 104-0479 is listed with an effective date of January 1, 2027. The enacted text restricts specified fees and prevents landlords from simply renaming a prohibited fee to avoid the statute.

The law applies to residential lease agreements entered into after its effective date, subject to the statute's exceptions, including an exception described for dwelling units in owner-occupied premises containing six units or fewer.

Multifamily operators should audit fee schedules

Before 2027 leases are offered, leasing teams should compare application, move-in, administrative, inspection and other resident charges against the final statutory list and any stricter local regulation. Marketing, applications, leases and accounting codes should use consistent terminology.

Local rules can still matter

The statute addresses local regulation and does not make every Illinois rental identical. Chicago and other local jurisdictions can have additional requirements that need separate review.

2027 forward-looking notice: This article reflects enacted law and official guidance available on September 22, 2026. Effective dates, agency guidance, annual figures, local rules and implementation details can change before or during 2027. Recheck the linked official sources before acting.