License Overview 

Nail salons, hair salons, and barber shops may require a Limited Business License from the City of Chicago.

Related Licenses 

State licensure is required for barbers and nail technicians. See the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation for more information.

Application Requirements 

• If the establishment is within 1,000 feet of any other such personal services establishment, a Special Use Permit from the Zoning Board of Appeals is required. Verified license paperwork from BACP is required before a Special Use Permit may be sought.

Required Documents 

• Documents required to identify the business depend on the business legal entity type. For more information, see the Required Documents page.

License Application Steps 

• Submit initial business information in person or online
• Receive zoning approval from the City. If the establishment is within 1,000 feet of any other such personal services establishment, BACP will provide paperwork in order for the applicant to seek the required Special Use Permit from the Zoning Board of Appeals.
• 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 

$250 License Fee
 

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.

Renewal Requirements 

A Limited Business License is issued for a period of two years and must be renewed prior to expiration. For renewal information, see the Renewal page.

Resources 

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