Mobile Sales
Mobile retail sales from a vehicle or cart require a Peddler or Mobile Merchant license
A Mobile Merchant license is for the sale of goods from within a motor vehicle such as a box truck or van, where customers are allowed inside the vehicle. The vehicle may park for up to four hours or the maximum allowable parking limit, whichever is less.
A Peddler license is for the sale of merchandise and whole fruits and vegetables from a wagon, vehicle, or cart that continuously moves from place to place. A peddler’s license may also allow for street performing. Every individual who peddles must obtain their own Peddler’s license.
License Overview Related Licenses
A Mobile Food license is require for the mobile sale of food.
A Limited Business license is required for the sale of general merchandise from a brick-and-mortar location.
A Secondhand Dealer license is required for the sale of certain secondhand merchandise.
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