Permits You Need to Open a Restaurant in Chicago, IL
11 permits identified. Last verified: February 2026.
Quick answer
Opening a restaurant in Chicago requires 11 permits. The Retail Food Establishment License ranges from $660-$1,650 depending on square footage (fees increased up to 400% in 2025). A liquor license costs $4,400 city + $750-$2,500/year state. Total first-year costs run $2,000-$8,000+ depending on whether you serve alcohol.
Opening a restaurant in Chicago involves navigating permits across multiple city departments. The Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) is the central licensing body, but health, fire, and buildings departments each play a role.
Chicago implemented significant license fee increases in 2025, with some fees rising up to 400%. The Retail Food Establishment License is tiered by square footage, ranging from $660 for spaces under 1,000 sq. ft. to $1,650 for spaces over 10,000 sq. ft.
If you plan to serve alcohol, budget for both city ($4,400) and state liquor license fees. The liquor license also requires zoning approval before you can apply, so check zoning compatibility early in your search for a location.
Required permits and licenses
Retail Food Establishment License
Required for all food establishments. Fee tiered by square footage. Requires pre-licensing health inspection by Chicago Department of Public Health.
Food Handler Certificate
All food handlers must complete an accredited food safety course within 30 days of hire. Valid statewide.
Food Manager Certification
At least one certified food service sanitation manager must be present during food preparation hours.
Consumption on Premises Liquor License
Required for on-premise sale of beer, wine, and spirits. Requires zoning approval. 90-day processing time after payment.
Certificate of Occupancy
Confirms your space meets code for restaurant use. Team-based inspection available by contacting restaurant@cityofchicago.org.
Fire Prevention Inspection
Type I hoods mandatory for commercial kitchens. Automatic fire-extinguishing system required. Quarterly hood/duct cleaning by licensed agencies.
Sign Permit
Required for exterior signage. Zoning review fee $200 for on-premise signs. Separate public way permit needed if sign extends over sidewalk.
Sidewalk Cafe Permit
Required for outdoor seating on public sidewalks. Certificate of insurance required. Apply via the Public Way Use Permitting portal.
Illinois Sales Tax Registration
Required to collect and remit Illinois sales tax on prepared food. Combined rate approximately 10.25% in Chicago.
Employer Identification Number (EIN)
Federal tax ID required for hiring employees and filing business taxes.
Health Department Plan Review
Floor plans reviewed before construction. Free CDPH consultation available before application to ensure compliance.
Disclaimer: This information is sourced from official government records and verified as of February 2026. Permit requirements can change. Always confirm with the issuing agency before making business decisions. This is not legal advice.
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