Crime Free Multi-Housing Program

Where it Began

The Crime Free Multi-Housing Program began in Mesa, Arizona in July 1992. It has spread across the United States and to Canada in a very short time. It was designed to be law enforcement driven.

How it Works

The Crime Free Multi-Housing Program is a unique, three-phase certification program for rental properties of all sizes, including single family rental homes. The first phase is the completion of a seminar taught by police personnel. In addition, guest speakers will also attend to address specific topics relating to rental properties. This police-sponsored program is designed to be easily implemented, yet extremely effective at reducing criminal activity in rental properties.

Topics Addressed

The Crime Free Multi-Housing Seminar addresses these topics:

  • Understanding Crime Prevention
  • C.P.T.E.D. Concepts (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design)
  • The Application Process
  • Community Rules/Leases
  • Active Property Management
  • Combating Crime Problems
  • Police: To Serve and Protect?
  • Dealing with Non-Compliance

Seminars & Refresher Courses

Courses are hosted at the Palatine Police Department (595 North Hicks Road). Seminars are 8 a.m. until noon and Refresher Courses are 12:30 p.m. until 1:30 p.m.

Seminar and Refresher Course promptness is required (attendees arriving late will need to re-register).

Children are not permitted at these courses.


Link to Chapter 10-16 Code of Ordinances

The ordinance wording changed September of 2022, please click on the link to review the ordinance and the responsibilities of the landlord and tenant.

Chapter 10-16


Looking To Start A Crime Free Program In Your Jurisdiction?

If you are a law enforcement agency and are looking to learn more about the Crime Free Program, find out how to implement the program, or need to have officers trained to instruct the program you will find information at the below link.

Illinois Crime Free Association


Eviction Notice Recommendations

The following notices are merely recommendations. It is always best to consult with an attorney.

  1. 10-Day Notice (For Any Lease Violation Excluding Non-Payment of Rent) (PDF)
  2. Landlord 60-day notice
  3. 5-Day Notice (For Non-Payment of Rent Only) (PDF)
  4. 5-Day Notice (Pursuant to 735 ILCS 5 9-120) (PDF)