Cook County requires a simple affidavit (no fee) to establish a home occupation in unincorporated areas. The affidavit is sent to the Zoning Administrator by email. No formal permit application or inspection is required.
Cook County has a streamlined process for establishing home occupations in unincorporated areas. Homeowners submit an affidavit to the Zoning Administrator to register their home-based business. There is no fee required for this filing. The affidavit can be sent by email, making the process simple and accessible. No formal permit application, site inspection, or hearing is required. The home occupation must remain incidental and secondary to the residential use of the dwelling, meaning it must not alter the residential character, generate excessive traffic, or create noise beyond residential norms. The business must be conducted by a family member residing on the premises. The Zoning Administrator retains the affidavit for compliance monitoring and may follow up if complaints are received.
Home occupation violating conditions: zoning enforcement, $100–$1,000 fine. May be ordered to cease if residential character is altered.
Chicago, IL
Chicago Building Code Chapter 13-196 requires approved smoke alarms in every residential unit: at least one on each story (including basement), within 15 fee...
Chicago, IL
Chicago has no ordinance specific to residential lawn ornaments, statuary, or year-round decorations. Landmark Commission approval is required only for perma...
Chicago, IL
Chicago has no ordinance specific to residential holiday inflatables. Inflator-motor noise after hours is enforced under MCC Section 8-32 (noise), and sidewa...
Chicago, IL
Chicago has no ordinance regulating residential holiday light display windows or brightness. Property maintenance complaints are handled under MCC Section 13...
Chicago, IL
Chicago requires Department of Buildings permits for outdoor kitchens with gas piping, electrical wiring, or plumbing under MCC Chapter 14A. Trade work must ...
Chicago, IL
Chicago has no ordinance specifically regulating residential smokers or wood-fired ovens. Smoke nuisance is enforced under Chicago Municipal Code Section 11-...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Cook County.
See how other cities in Cook County handle home occupation permits.
See how Chicago's home occupation permits rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.