Catering Business Permit Requirements in Chicago, IL

Complete permit and license guide for starting a catering business in Chicago, Cook County, Illinois.

Updated 2026-03-13 5 stops $700–$1,500 est. 4–10 weeks to obtain all permits, pass inspections, and complete certifications
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Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. This guide was compiled from public and official sources (last updated ) and has not yet been independently source-verified — confirm each requirement before acting on it.

Federal — start here

1 stop

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

    Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of Illinois

2 stops

  1. Illinois Food Service Sanitation Manager Certification (FSSMC)

    Illinois requires all food service establishments to employ a Certified Food Service Sanitation Manager. The certification is obtained by passing an ANSI-accredited exam (ServSafe, Prometric, National Registry, etc.). The certificate must be posted at the establishment. Required under Illinois food-service sanitation regulations (Food Handling Regulation Enforcement Act); verify the current administrative code section with IDPH.

    Official government source

    $80–$150 (course + exam)1–2 days

  2. Illinois Sales Tax Registration

    Catering services are taxable in Illinois. Register with the Illinois Department of Revenue for a Retailer's Occupation Tax license. The combined rate in Chicago is 10.25% (6.25% state + county + city). Apply online through MyTax Illinois.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online)

City of Chicago / Cook County

2 stops

  1. Chicago Dept of Public Health — Food Service Sanitation License

    All food establishments in Chicago, including catering operations, must obtain a Retail Food Establishment Sanitation License from the Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP), administered in coordination with the Chicago Dept of Public Health (CDPH). A pre-opening inspection is required. Caterers must operate from a licensed commercial kitchen. Contact Chicago BACP at 312-744-2400.

    Official government source

    $330–$660 annually (based on seating; $330 for mobile/catering; varies by category)3–8 weeks (application, pre-opening inspection)

  2. Chicago Regulated Business License

    Catering businesses in Chicago may require a Regulated Business License from BACP in addition to the food service license. This covers the general operation of the business. Apply online through the Chicago Business License Portal.

    Official government source

    $250–$500 every 2 years2–4 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $700–$1,500 · 4–10 weeks to obtain all permits, pass inspections, and complete certifications

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Official Sources

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