Applying for a liquor license in Chicago, Illinois, involves a comprehensive process that requires meeting with a Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) business consultant, determining the type of license required, and checking if your business location has any restrictions. You can make an appointment online or by calling 312-74-GOBIZ/312-744-6249.
The application process requires several documents including business structure documents, IDOR and FEIN tax numbers, a lease, financial disclosure detailing the source of funds used to establish the business, an occupancy placard, a detailed floor plan and site plan, proof of liquor liability insurance, and a BASSET Certificate. A criminal background check is also required for any person with 5% or more ownership in the business, corporate officers, site managers, and/or persons loaning or giving 10% or more interest.
It's important to check the zoning designation of your proposed business location at www.chicago.gov/zoningmap to ensure the sale of liquor is permitted. Note that liquor licenses are not permitted within 100 ft. of a library, church, school, hospital, home for the aged, or building used exclusively for education. Also, certain precincts within the City of Chicago have been voted “dry” through a local option referendum, meaning no liquor licenses can be held within the precinct. For more detailed information, you may consult the liquor licensing guide at the Chicago government website.
After completing the city's requirements, you need to complete the Retailer's Liquor License application form provided by the Illinois Liquor Control Commission (ILCC). The application requires you to provide details about your business, ownership information, and local license information. You must also provide a photocopy of your current Local Liquor License, a photocopy of Certificate of Insurance if alcohol will be consumed on the premises, and proof of purchase such as a bill of sale, closing statement, lease, or recorded deed. The application fee is $750.00. The processing time for a Retailer Liquor License is approximately 3 - 10 business days. You can email your application and supporting documents to LCC.Licensing@illinois.gov for review and processing. License fee payments should be made by check or money order through the mail within 3-7 business days to the Illinois Liquor Control Commission.
For more specific information, it would be best to contact the agency directly. You may also consult the ILCC's website or this liquor licensing guide published on the Chicago Government’s website.
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