Des Plaines, IL Home Business: Home Occupation Permits (2026)

Most home-based businesses in Des Plaines must register their home occupation with the Department of Community and Economic Development. The registration process typically involves a brief application identifying the property, the resident operating the business, the type of business activity, expected employees (which must be limited to household members), expected customer or client visits, parking impact, and any anticipated deliveries. The application is reviewed for compliance with the City's home occupation provisions in the zoning ordinance. There is generally a modest filing fee. The registration is non-transferable and tied to the resident and address. Operators should also confirm whether their business requires a separate Illinois Department of Revenue sales tax registration, professional licensing, DCFS license (for childcare), or other state-level approvals. Renewal may be required periodically. Operating without the required home occupation registration is itself a code violation, separate from any other zoning violation.