Arlington Heights vs Des Plaines
How do zoning restrictions rules compare between Arlington Heights, IL and Des Plaines, IL?
Arlington Heights and Des Plaines have similar restriction levels.
Arlington Heights, IL
Cook County
Arlington Heights allows home occupations in residential zoning districts subject to conditions in the Village's zoning ordinance. Home businesses must be incidental to the residential use, may not alter the residential character, and cannot generate customer traffic, outdoor storage, or signage. Certain business types including auto repair, manufacturing, and retail sales from the premises are prohibited.
View full Arlington Heights rules →Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Des Plaines permits home occupations as accessory uses in residential zoning districts under the City's zoning ordinance. The business must be clearly incidental and subordinate to residential use, conducted entirely within the dwelling by household members, and may not alter the residential character of the property. No outdoor storage, signage, or excessive customer traffic is permitted.
View full Des Plaines rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington Heights | Des Plaines |
|---|---|---|
| Floor Area Limit | 25% of habitable space | - |
| Employees | Residents only | Household residents only |
| Customer Visits | Generally prohibited | - |
| Signage | Not permitted | Not permitted |
| Code Enforcement | (847) 368-5200 | - |
| Allowed Zones | - | R-1 through R-4 |
| Outdoor Storage | - | Prohibited |
| Enforcement | - | (847) 391-5300 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington Heights FAQ
Can I run a business from my home in Arlington Heights?
Yes, home occupations are permitted as accessory uses in residential zones. The business must be conducted entirely within the dwelling, limited to 25% of floor area, and may not change the residential character of the property.
Can clients visit my home office?
Generally no. Arlington Heights home occupation rules restrict or prohibit customer, client, and patient visits to prevent non-residential traffic in neighborhoods.
Do I need a license for my home business?
Depending on the type of business, the Village may require a business license. Contact the Village's Community Development Department to determine licensing requirements for your specific business.
Des Plaines FAQ
Can I run a business from my home in Des Plaines?
Yes. Home occupations are allowed in residential zones provided the business is entirely inside the dwelling, conducted by household members, and does not change the residential character of the property.
Do I need a permit for a home occupation?
Most home-based businesses in Des Plaines require a home occupation registration with the Department of Community and Economic Development. Contact (847) 391-5300 to confirm requirements for your specific business type.
What types of home businesses are prohibited?
Auto repair, beauty shops with multiple stations, kennels, restaurants, manufacturing, and medical practices with patient visits are typically prohibited as home occupations under the City's zoning ordinance.
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