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Short-Term Rental Regulations
in McHenry County, IL

Last verified: March 2026 · Report an update

Zoning & Conditions

Short-term rentals are permitted by right if they do not exceed 12 rental periods or 90 total days per calendar year. Rentals exceeding these limits require a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) and are restricted to Agriculture, Residential, and B-1 zoning districts; no services other than space rental may be provided.

How to Obtain a Permit

1. File a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) application with the Department of Planning & Development including a site plan. 2. Attend a public hearing before the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) within 180 days of a complete application. 3. Obtain final approval from the County Board; permits are typically valid for 10 years.

Official Resources

Official McHenry County STR regulation source

Frequently Asked Questions

Are short-term rentals allowed in McHenry County, IL?
Short-term rentals are permitted by right if they do not exceed 12 rental periods or 90 total days per calendar year. Rentals exceeding these limits require a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) and are restricted to Agriculture, Residential, and B-1 zoning districts; no services other than space rental may be provided.
Is a permit required to operate a short-term rental in McHenry County?
Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in McHenry County. 1. File a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) application with the Department of Planning & Development including a site plan. 2. Attend a public hearing before the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) within 180 days of a complete application. 3. Obtain final approval from the County Board; permits are typically valid for 10 years.
How do I get a short-term rental permit in McHenry County?
1. File a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) application with the Department of Planning & Development including a site plan. 2. Attend a public hearing before the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) within 180 days of a complete application. 3. Obtain final approval from the County Board; permits are typically valid for 10 years.

Disclaimer

This information is for general reference only and may not reflect the most current regulations. STR regulations change frequently. Always verify requirements with official local government sources before operating a short-term rental.

Last verified: March 2026 · Suggest a correction