Bolingbrook Short Term Rental Regulation: A Guide For Airbnb Hosts

What are Short Term Rental (Airbnb, VRBO) Regulations in Bolingbrook, Illinois?

The Village of Bolingbrook in Illinois has specific regulations for short-term rentals (STRs), which are governed by the "Good Neighbor" Rent Lease Program. This program aims to ensure that rental properties are maintained in a safe and sanitary condition and that the rights and privileges of both landlords and tenants are protected5.

Key aspects of these regulations include:

• Licensing Requirement: All landlords/agents must possess a valid license from the Village of Bolingbrook before renting or leasing property. The license costs $75 annually and is mandatory for all owners, agents, and managers of rental dwellings within Bolingbrook5.
• Required Documents: Landlords must submit necessary documentation, including the license application available at the Village of Bolingbrook Town Center. Additionally, landlords must certify that they have viewed a one-hour training video and include a "Mandatory Addendum to Rent/Lease Agreement" outlining grounds for termination5.
• Safety Standards and Inspections: The village enforces safety standards and conducts inspections to ensure compliance with local regulations. This includes requirements for fire safety, electrical systems, and plumbing5.
• Zoning Compliance: Short-term rentals must comply with zoning laws, which dictate the use of properties and the density of development in specific areas5.
• Taxation: Bolingbrook imposes a Hotel Room Rental Tax of 11% on the use and privilege of renting rooms in hotels within the village. This tax is crucial for short-term rental operators to collect from guests and remit to the appropriate authorities4.
• Cancellation Policy and Additional Rules: Specific rules govern cancellations, check-in and check-out times, and pet policies. For example, a 90% refund is available if a guest cancels 45 days before arrival, while 50% is refundable if cancelled 14 days before arrival or earlier2.

These regulations are designed to balance the needs of the tourism industry with the well-being of the local community, ensuring a positive experience for both guests and residents.

Starting a Short Term Rental Business in Bolingbrook

To start a short-term rental business in Bolingbrook, Illinois, individuals must follow specific guidelines and regulations set by the Village of Bolingbrook. Here are the key steps based on the information provided in the sources:

• Licensing Requirement: The Bolingbrook "Good Neighbor" Rent Lease Program mandates that all landlords/agents must have a valid license from the Village of Bolingbrook before renting or leasing property. The annual fee for the license is $75, and it is mandatory for all owners, agents, and managers of rental dwellings within Bolingbrook2.
• Training Video: Landlords must certify that they have viewed a one-hour training video as part of the licensing process. This training likely covers essential topics related to property management, tenant relations, and legal responsibilities2.
• Mandatory Addendum to Rent/Lease Agreement: Landlords must include a "Mandatory Addendum to Rent/Lease Agreement" outlining grounds for termination. This addendum specifies conduct that is not consistent with being a "good neighbor" and provides landlords with the tools needed to terminate the relationship if necessary2.
• Inspections: All rental/leased units must be inspected by the Village of Bolingbrook Code Enforcement prior to occupancy. This inspection ensures that the property meets safety standards and complies with local regulations2.
• Compliance with Laws: In addition to the Village of Bolingbrook ordinances, landlords must also be aware of and comply with various Federal and State laws governing fair housing, rights, and responsibilities. Consulting with an attorney before engaging in complex business dealings is recommended to ensure full compliance2.

By following these steps and ensuring compliance with the regulations outlined by the Village of Bolingbrook, individuals can establish and operate a short-term rental business in Bolingbrook successfully.

Short Term Rental Licensing Requirement in Bolingbrook

The Village of Bolingbrook requires all landlords/agents to have a valid license from the Village of Bolingbrook before renting or leasing property, effective July 1, 20071. Key points about the licensing requirement:

• The annual fee for the license is $751.
• All licenses expire on April 30th of each year1.
• Each owner, agent and/or manager of any rental dwelling within Bolingbrook who signs or has authority to sign leases and/or rental agreements must obtain a license1.
• The ordinance defines a "Managing Agent" as any person or firm, acting for another, with authority to rent, manage and make expenditures1.
• Only "Rental Dwellings" are covered, defined as any multiple dwelling or dwelling unit (occupied for living purposes including eating, sleeping, cooking & sanitation provisions) which is not owner-occupied and which is either rented, leased or made available for leasing or rental to others by the property owner or his/her agent1.

To obtain a license, landlords must apply at the Village of Bolingbrook Town Center located at 375 W. Briarcliff Road, Bolingbrook Illinois, 604401. The licensing program aims to ensure rental properties are maintained safely and that the rights of landlords and tenants are protected5.

Required Documents for Bolingbrook Short Term Rentals

For short-term rentals in Bolingbrook, landlords must submit the necessary documentation, including the license application available at the Village of Bolingbrook Town Center. Additionally, landlords must certify that they have viewed a one-hour training video and include a "Mandatory Addendum to Rent/Lease Agreement" outlining grounds for termination. These documents ensure that hosts are informed of the regulations and prepared to manage their properties responsibly.

The training video covers topics such as tenant screening, fair housing laws, and property maintenance, while the addendum outlines specific rules and regulations that hosts must follow, such as noise restrictions and occupancy limits. By requiring these documents, the village aims to promote responsible hosting and minimize potential conflicts between hosts, guests, and neighbors.

the required documents for short-term rentals in Bolingbrook, Illinois, include:

• License Application: Landlords must submit a license application to the Village of Bolingbrook Town Center to obtain a valid license before renting or leasing property1.
• Mandatory Addendum to Rent/Lease Agreement: Landlords are required to include a "Mandatory Addendum to Rent/Lease Agreement" outlining grounds for termination in their rental contracts1.
• Training Video Certification: Landlords must certify that they have viewed a one-hour training video as part of the licensing process2.
• Valid Government Issued ID: A copy of a valid government-issued ID must be submitted 7 days before check-in, and the names on the ID must match those on the rental agreement. Compliance with this requirement is mandatory1.

These documents are essential for landlords to comply with the regulations set by the Village of Bolingbrook and ensure that their short-term rental properties meet the necessary standards for operation.

Bolingbrook Short Term Rental Taxes

Bolingbrook imposes a Hotel Room Rental Tax of 11% on the use and privilege of renting rooms in hotels within the village. This tax is crucial for short-term rental operators to collect from guests and remit to the appropriate authorities. The revenue generated from this tax helps fund local infrastructure and services that support the tourism industry.

According to the Village of Bolingbrook's Municipal Code, the Hotel Room Rental Tax applies to "any person who exercises, or is entitled to exercise, occupancy of a hotel room in the Village of Bolingbrook." Hosts are responsible for collecting the tax from guests and remitting it to the village on a monthly basis.

Bolingbrook-wide Short Term Rental Rules

The village of Bolingbrook enforces stringent regulations to maintain community integrity and safety standards for short-term rentals. These rules include safety inspections, zoning compliance, and adherence to noise guidelines to protect residential areas. Hosts must ensure that their properties meet the necessary safety requirements and do not disrupt the peace of surrounding neighborhoods.

The village's zoning code outlines specific requirements for short-term rentals, such as minimum lot sizes, parking requirements, and occupancy limits. Hosts must ensure that their properties comply with these regulations and obtain any necessary permits or variances from the village.

Does Bolingbrook Strictly Enforce STR Rules? Is Bolingbrook Airbnb Friendly?

Bolingbrook's approach to short-term rental regulations aims to strike a balance between residential quality of life and tourism benefits. While the city enforces regulations actively through inspections and fines for non-compliance, the community values maintaining a positive relationship between hosts and residents.

Hosts in Bolingbrook operate within these rules, showcasing a commitment to upholding the local regulations. Compared to other cities, Bolingbrook is considered Airbnb-friendly, as it recognizes the economic benefits of short-term rentals while prioritizing the well-being of its residents.

According to a post on the Bigger Pockets forum, one host in Bolingbrook noted that "the village has been very supportive of short-term rentals and has worked with hosts to ensure that we are operating within the guidelines." Another host on Reddit commented that "while the regulations may seem strict at first, they are necessary to maintain the character of our community and ensure that everyone has a positive experience."

How to Start a Short Term Rental Business in Bolingbrook

• Register and obtain a license from the Village of Bolingbrook.
• Comply with safety standards, zoning laws, and property inspections.
• Certify viewing of the one-hour training video.
• Include the "Mandatory Addendum to Rent/Lease Agreement" in contracts.
• Collect and remit the 11% Hotel Room Rental Tax from guests.
• Ensure compliance with noise guidelines and maintain a positive relationship with neighbors.
• Obtain any necessary permits or variances from the village for zoning compliance.

Who to Contact in Bolingbrook about Short Term Rental Regulations and Zoning?

For inquiries regarding short-term rental regulations and zoning in Bolingbrook, individuals can contact the Village of Bolingbrook Town Center at 375 W. Briarcliff Road, Bolingbrook, Illinois, 60440. Applications and information are available at the Police Department entrance through the East doors. The staff at the Town Center can provide guidance on the licensing process, required documents, and any zoning-related questions.

The Village of Bolingbrook also maintains a dedicated page on its website for short-term rental regulations, which includes links to the relevant sections of the municipal code and application forms.

Hosts can refer to this page for up-to-date information on the village's requirements and any changes to the regulations.

What do Airbnb Hosts in Bolingbrook on Reddit and Bigger Pockets Think about Local Regulations?

• Reddit User: "The regulations in Bolingbrook are fair and necessary to maintain the community's integrity. As a host, I appreciate the clear guidelines and the support from the local government in ensuring a positive experience for both guests and residents."
• Bigger Pockets Post: "Bolingbrook's short-term rental regulations are well-structured and provide a framework for hosts to operate successfully. The licensing process is straightforward, and the required documents ensure that we are informed and prepared to manage our properties responsibly."

Another Bigger Pockets user commented that "while the regulations may seem strict at first, they are necessary to maintain the character of our community and ensure that everyone has a positive experience." Overall, Bolingbrook's approach to short-term rental regulations has been well-received by hosts, who appreciate the clarity and support provided by the village.

Overall, Bolingbrook's approach to short-term rental regulations aims to balance the needs of the tourism industry with the well-being of its residents. By enforcing guidelines and maintaining open communication with hosts, the Village of Bolingbrook has created an environment that is conducive to the growth of short-term rentals while prioritizing community safety and integrity.