Big changes are coming for homeowners in Illinois dealing with squatters. Governor J.B. Pritzker is expected to sign the new “Squatter Bill” (Senate Bill 1563) into law by the end of July, making it way easier for police to remove squatters from someone’s property.
Under the current law, it can take weeks—or even months—to get a squatter out because of the legal eviction process. But starting January 1, 2026, that’ll change. The new bill would officially classify squatters as trespassers, which means law enforcement can remove them on the spot once the rightful homeowner proves ownership—no court eviction necessary.
This all comes after a string of local incidents where squatters moved into homes and refused to leave. In fact, Illinois State Rep. Marcus Evans had squatters move in next door to him in Chicago. He’s been vocal about pushing for change, even calling on the governor to act quickly. Read more here.
State Rep. La Shawn Ford, who co-sponsored the bill, said it best: this bill “takes away the legal standing of the squatter” and makes sure they’re treated like trespassers—not tenants. ABC 7 Chicago has the full report.
If signed, the new law kicks in on January 1, 2026—so homeowners will soon have a much stronger legal backing if someone tries to take over their property.
