• A Liquor License is required to serve liquor.
• A food license is required to serve food.

• A debt check will be conducted as part of the application process. All City debt must be resolved for the license to be issued.
• A fingerprint-based background check will be conducted for all controlling persons as part of the application process.
• An inspection of the premises will be conducted by the Department of Buildings and Fire Department
• Public Place of Amusement licenses are not permitted within 200 feet of a church, school, hospital, or building used exclusively for educational purposes unless a distance reduction is granted.
• The City will provide written notice to the local alderman and all registered voters residing within 250 feet of the proposed PPA location. Registered voters have 35 days to file with BACP a written objection to the issuance of the license.

• Documents required to identify the business depend on the business legal entity type. For more information, see the Required Documents page.
• Individual History Form for all controlling persons required to be fingerprinted
• Site plan and interior layout
• Current Lease / Proof of Property Ownership
• Occupancy Placard issued by the Department of Buildings

• Submit initial business information in person or online
• Receive zoning approval from the City. PPAs are not allowed within 125 feet of a R1, R2, or R3 residential district unless a distance reduction is granted. Parking requirements may also apply.
• Complete and submit a full license application
• Get fingerprinted for a fingerprint-based background check. Every owner, corporate officer, or any person who has a 25% or more interest in the business will be prompted to get fingerprinted.
• Make payment for the license
• The City will provide written notice to the local alderman and all registered voters residing within 250 feet of the proposed PPA location.
• Registered voters have 35 days to file with BACP a written objection to the issuance of the license.
• Undergo a City debt check. All City debt must be resolved for the license to be issued.
• Undergo inspections by BACP, Department of Buildings and the Chicago Fire Department.

cost 

$770-$13,200 License Fee based on occupancy

$40 processing fee per controlling person required to be fingerprinted

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