Licenses & Permits to Open a Restaurants & Bar in Chicago, IL
Opening a restaurants & bar in Chicago requires between 12–16 permits. Here's the complete list, with costs, timelines, and links to every agency. If you are missing licenses, we can handle registration and then manage renewals for you.
Complete License Checklist for Restaurants & Bars in Chicago
| License | Required? | Cost | Issuing Agency | Renewal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business License | Yes | $250 (Limited Business License) | Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection | Every 2 years |
| Health Permit | Yes | $100–$1000 | Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection | Annual |
| Food Handler's Permit | Yes | $10–$50 | Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection | Every 2–3 years |
| Liquor / Alcohol License | If applicable | $300–$15000 | Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection | Annual |
| Fire Inspection Certificate | Yes | $50–$500 | Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection | Annual |
| Signage / Sign Permit | If applicable | $25–$500 | Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection | One-time or annual |
| Building Permit | If applicable | $100–$5000 | Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection | Per project |
| Certificate of Occupancy | Yes | $25–$500 | Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection | Upon change of use or tenancy |
| Sales Tax Permit | Yes | $0–$100 | Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection | Varies by state |
| DBA / Fictitious Business Name | If applicable | $10–$100 | Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection | Every 5 years |
| Music License (ASCAP / BMI / SESAC) | If applicable | $250–$2000 | Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection | Annual |
| Sidewalk Café / Outdoor Dining Permit | If applicable | $100–$1500 | Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection | Annual |
Total Estimated Cost
The total licensing cost for a restaurants & bar in Chicago varies based on your specific business activities, size, and location. Budget for the sum of all applicable license fees listed above, plus potential inspection and professional certification costs.
We'll track all licenses for your restaurants & bar in Chicago.
We can register missing licenses first, then manage every renewal deadline.
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