License Overview 

A pop up licensee may occupy for one year or less an indoor or outdoor retail space for the sale of merchandise such as seasonal stores, estate sales, pumpkin patches, or Christmas tree lots.

Related Licenses 

• Sale of any merchandise that is specially regulated such as tobacco, fuel, or liquor requires a specialized license and may not be done under a Pop Up License.
• The temporary sale of perishable food requires a Pop Up Food Establishment license.
• A Peddler or Mobile Merchant License is required for the sale of general merchandise from a vehicle or cart.
• A Secondhand Dealer License is required for the sale of certain secondhand merchandise.
• If the pop up sale is a trade show or exhibition such as an art fair, consumer fair, trade fair, or exhibition, the organizer of the show must obtain a Pop Up License for a specific venue/ location and list out all participating vendors to be included on their single license at that location. For more information, see the Pop Up Licensing for Shows and Exhibitions webpage.
• Pop up events that are located on sidewalks or streets, serve food, or require City services require a Special Event Permit from the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events.

Application Requirements 

Pop ups may be located in any non-residential, non-manufacturing location.

Required Documents 

• Documents required to identify the business depend on the business legal entity type. For more information, see the Required Documents page.
• Letter of intent from the property owner or host of the location in which the licensee will pop in.

License Application Steps 

• Submit initial business information in person or online
• Complete and submit a full license application
• Make payment for the license
• Receive license once all requirements are met

For more information on license application steps, see the Business License Application Steps webpage.

Cost 

5-day license                      $25

30-day license                    $50

90-day license                    $75

180-day license                 $100

1-year license                     $150

How to Apply 

In person: Visit the Small Business Center Visit Us webpage for wait times, location, and hours of operation.

Online: Visit the online business license application system.

Operating Requirements 

• Pop Up licensees are authorized to change the location of their location without having to obtain a new license. Pop Up licensees may not locate in any Residential or Manufacturing location.
• Engaging in the business of selling liquor or tobacco, operating a public place of amusement, or providing services specifically licensed by the City or State is prohibited under a Pop Up license. The Pop Up license does not allow for any business activity that requires one or more specific City licenses.

Renewal Requirements 

Pop Up licenses may not be renewed. A new application is required in order to continue operating as a pop up beyond the term of the original license.

Resources 

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