General Merchandise

There are several City of Chicago business license types for the retail sale of general merchandise depending on the business activity:

Sale of general retail merchandise such as clothes, cosmetic products or gifts at a brick-and-mortar location requires a Limited Business License.
Sale of general merchandise from a vehicle or cart requires a Mobile Merchant License or a Peddler License.

Sales of merchandise at temporary shows or in pop up storefronts requires a Pop Up Retail License.

Sale of previously owned audio-video equipment, construction materials, sporting or athletic equipment, currency, or anything made of precious metal, stone or gem such as jewelry or watches requires a Secondhand Dealer License.


related licenses

  • The sale of perishable food requires a Food License
  • Sale of merchandise that is specifically regulated such as tobacco, fuel, or liquor requires a specialized license, and may only be sold from a brick-and-mortar location.

Resources

For questions, call 312-74-GOBIZ (744-6249) or 312.744.1944, or email businesslicense@cityofchicago.org