Small Business Development Center

Get a Business License or Permit

What is the Illinois Law?

You must register your business with the state of Illinois if conduct business or have Illinois customers. Visit the Illinois Department of Revenue’s web site for more information.

Obtain a local business license

If your business is located within city limits, a license is obtained from the city; if outside the city limits, then from the county. For special occupations, the business needs to be registered with the department of Professional Regulations. Some businesses require extra permits in order to operate. These permits are needed based business industry and type

Visit your local County Clerk's Office to obtain information on:

• Zoning
• Special building permits
• City licenses
• Registration of business name

You can visit the Secretary of State's Web site to search for registered business names. To find our what business permits are needed to operate your business with the State of Illinois, visit the Illinois Department of Professional Regulations to access rules, regulations and permits.