6 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 3 cities in Lake County, Illinois.
Verified from official government sources
Home occupations in unincorporated Lake County are regulated under the Unified Development Ordinance (Chapter 151). Contact Planning, Building and Development at 847-377-2600 for specific home occupation standards.
Signage in unincorporated Lake County is regulated under the UDO sign regulations. Home-based businesses are generally restricted from commercial signage to maintain residential character.
Home occupations in unincorporated Lake County must not generate excessive traffic or other impacts incompatible with residential neighborhoods. UDO zoning provisions apply.
Illinois Home-to-Market Act (410 ILCS 625/4) greatly expanded cottage food operations statewide in 2022. Lake County Health Department oversees registration for most non-potentially hazardous home-produced foods.
Home daycares in Lake County must be licensed by Illinois DCFS and comply with local zoning. Family daycare (up to 8 children) generally allowed in residential districts; group day care home (up to 16) needs special use permit.
Customary home occupations in unincorporated Lake County require a zoning certificate from Lake County Planning, Building and Development under Subsection 151.113(E) of the Unified Development Ordinance. The home occupation must be subordinate to the residential use, conducted by residents of the dwelling, and meet performance standards on employees, signage, parking, traffic, and outdoor activity. Bed and breakfasts may not exceed 50% of the floor area, are capped at five guest rooms, and require Lake County Health Department approval. Rural home occupations (greater intensity) are limited to lots of 80,000 sq ft or larger. Statewide, every business entity must register with the Illinois Secretary of State and the Illinois Department of Revenue (MyTax Illinois / REG-1) and collect 6.25% Retailers' Occupation Tax on taxable goods (35 ILCS 120).
3 cities in Lake County have their own home business rules. Each link goes to that city's dedicated page with code citations.
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Lake County Ordinance Hub →