Permits for Operating on Private Property

Overview: 

Only establishments that held a permit in 2022 to serve patrons on their private property may apply for a temporary private property permit in 2023. This permit allows brick-and-mortar food establishments and tavern licensees to place tables and chairs on their private property to serve patrons. 

Eligibility:  

  • Applicants must have held a permit for serving patrons on the same private property in 2022 in order to be eligible to apply for such a permit during the 2023 season. Establishments that did not hold a permit to serve patrons on their private property in 2022 are not eligible to apply.
  • Applicants must have a valid Retail Food Establishment license or valid Tavern license. 
  • Applicants intending to serve liquor must have a valid Liquor license pursuant to Chapter 4-60 of the Municipal Code of the City of Chicago and dram shop insurance, per rules and regulations. 
  • A full list of requirements can be found on the City of Chicago online permitting portal. 

Timeline:  

Permits for operating on private property are effective until October 31st.  

Application Process:  

  • Applications must be made via theportal. Permit applicants must submit proof of licensure (a Retail Food Establishment license or Tavern license), associated insurance documents, a plan of the proposed private property dining area with measurements indicated, and a photo of the area to be occupied.  The full list of required materials can be found on the portal. 
  • The Certificate of Insurance must be uploaded to the portal before CDOT can approve the application. 
  • After the application has been approved, applicants will be directed to pay via the portal. 
  • Upon payment, CDOT will notify the applicant electronically that the permit has been approved. The permit itself must be available upon request.  Electronic copies are acceptable. 
  • Questions can be submitted to CDOT at cdotpermitsupport@cityofchicago.org.

Application Portal: City of Chicago Permit Portal

Department issuing permit: Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT)