Al Fresco Permanent Program: Arlington Heights vs Chicago
How do al fresco permanent program rules compare between Arlington Heights, IL and Chicago, IL?
Arlington Heights, IL
Cook County
No data available yet for Arlington Heights.
Chicago, IL
Cook County
Chicago made expanded outdoor dining permanent in 2021 under MCC 10-28-820 and the Expanded Outdoor Dining Permit. Sidewalk cafes, street cafes in former parking lanes, and rooftop and patio expansions follow streamlined permits issued by BACP year-round.
View full Chicago rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington Heights | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Code | - | MCC 10-28-820 |
| Permitting agency | - | BACP and CDOT |
| Pedestrian path | - | Five feet clear |
| Street cafe season | - | Year-round if engineered |
| Alderman role | - | Approval required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington Heights FAQ
No FAQs available.
Chicago FAQ
Can a Chicago restaurant keep its parking-lane cafe in winter?
Yes, if the structure meets engineering and snow load standards. Otherwise the cafe and barricades must come down between November 30 and March 1 under the Expanded Outdoor Dining rules.
Does a sidewalk cafe need its own liquor permit?
Yes. The existing on-premise license must be amended to cover the outdoor footprint, and BACP charges a separate fee. Outdoor consumption must remain inside the marked permit boundary.
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