The final information is subject to the latest release from the following official websites:
Every business operating in the City of Chicago requires a City of Chicago business license. A Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) business consultant is available to help you obtain a City license.
Complete a BIS pre-application form (in-person applicants only; not required for online license applicants). The following information must be provided by in-person and online license applicants:
Please check our Business Licenses web page for additional information regarding specific documentation and application requirements.
A zoning review is conducted to determine if your business activity is permitted in the zoning designation of your business location. You can use the online interactive zoning map to check any business location zoning designation ahead of time.
Depending upon the license type, an inspection may be required by one or more City departments prior to license issuance. Please check our Business Licenses web page for information regarding the specific inspection requirements of business licenses.
Business owners or legal representatives of business owners can also apply for a license in-person by meeting with a Business Consultant in the Small Business Center (SBC).
Chicago Small Business Center
Contact Information
312.74.GOBIZ (744.6249) or 312.744.1944 for TTY.
[email protected]
Hours of Operation
Monday through Friday; 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
BACP’s online business license application system – Chicago Business Direct – allows business owners or legal representatives of business owners to apply for most City of Chicago business licenses. All business license applications started online must be completed online.
Application fees and terms vary. Any outstanding debt to the City, such as parking tickets, fines or Illinois Sales Tax must be paid before any license can be issued or renewed.
Some occupations are exempt from City licensing if the occupation/profession is licensed by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Please note, business activities that are offered but not covered by the State of Illinois license will require a City of Chicago business license.
Wiki of Business License in Chicago