How to Renew a Business License in Chicago?
Depending on the industry, nearly every type of business requires some sort of license. If you are starting a new business in Chicago, or need to renew your existing business license.
In Chicago, all businesses are required to obtain a City of Chicago business license unless exempted by state or County law. The Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection offers a Small Business Center (SBC) to help new and existing business owners navigate the licensing process. The SBC will set up a free consultation with a business consultant and provide information regarding specific application requirements, zoning issues, permits, and inspections.
If you are a current City of Chicago business license holder, your renewal notice will be sent via email if you have a User Profile on Chicago Business Direct or by mail to the address on record for your business. In order to ensure that you receive your renewal notice, you should update your contact information on Chicago Business Direct at least a few weeks before your business license expiration.
Chicago Business License Renewal Requirements
There are many factors to consider when determining whether or not you need a City of Chicago business license. A good first step is to check your proposed location’s zoning and see if the business activity you are planning is allowed there. You should also register your business with the required county, state and federal authorities. Also, depending on the type of business, you may need to obtain specialized licenses and permits from other City and State departments or agencies.
The City’s Small Business Center (SBC) is a “one-stop shop” for business licensing and public way permitting and can help you understand what requirements are specific to your type of business. You can apply for a business license online, in-person or over the phone with an SBC business consultant.
Depending on the business type, a criminal history check is sometimes required for owners, corporate officers or any person who has 25% or more interest in the company and for all on-site managers. This is a fingerprint-based background check and a cost recovery fee will be charged for this service.
Other requirements for different types of business include a public health inspection, fire safety inspection, plumbing inspection, and zoning inspections. You will need to apply for a permit for awnings, signage and other items related to your business. Also, you may be required to have a fire drill, tornado shelter plan and other safety and health measures in place.
Once you fully understand the business license requirements in Chicago, you can begin the application process through Chicago Business Direct. The website is user-friendly and allows you to check on the status of your applications as well as pay any fees associated with them. However, you should note that your business license will not be issued until any holds are resolved. These holds may include outstanding debt owed to the City or overdue permit fees for items associated with your business such as signs or awnings. The Business Direct website also offers tutorials to assist you in using the site.
