Zoning Restrictions: Des Plaines vs Evanston
How do zoning restrictions rules compare between Des Plaines, IL and Evanston, IL?
Des Plaines and Evanston have similar restriction levels.
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 →Evanston, IL
Cook County
Evanston allows home occupations in residential zoning districts under Title 6 (Zoning) of the City Code, subject to conditions designed to preserve neighborhood character. Home businesses must be incidental to the residential use, operated by residents of the dwelling, and not generate noticeable traffic, noise, or visible signage. Prohibited home businesses include auto repair, manufacturing, and retail sales with walk-in customers.
View full Evanston rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Des Plaines | Evanston |
|---|---|---|
| Allowed Zones | R-1 through R-4 | - |
| Employees | Household residents only | - |
| Outdoor Storage | Prohibited | - |
| Signage | Not permitted | No visible business signs |
| Enforcement | (847) 391-5300 | - |
| Allowed Districts | - | All residential zones (R1-R6) |
| Max Area | - | 25% of floor area or 200 sq ft |
| Outside Employees | - | Not permitted |
| Client Visits | - | Minimal (2-3/day typical) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Evanston FAQ
Can I run a business from my home in Evanston?
Yes, if it qualifies as a home occupation under the Zoning Ordinance. The business must be operated by household members, use no more than 25% of your floor area or 200 square feet, and not be visible or audible from outside the home.
Can I have employees come to my home to work?
No. Only members of the household residing at the address may work in the home business. Outside employees working at the residence would violate the home occupation provisions.
What businesses are prohibited as home occupations?
Auto repair, welding, manufacturing, animal grooming with outdoor kenneling, medical/dental offices, and any business requiring walk-in retail traffic or food service licensing are prohibited. Contact the Community Development Department at (847) 448-4311 with questions about specific business types.
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