Hair Salon Permit Requirements in Chicago, IL

Complete permit and license guide for starting a hair salon in Chicago, Cook County, Illinois.

$400 -- $1200 6–12 weeks to obtain all permits and licenses 6 requirements

Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .

Chicago / Cook County Requirements

2 requirements
1

City of Chicago Business License (Cosmetology / Personal Services)

Required for all hair salons and cosmetology establishments operating in the City of Chicago. Issued by the Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP). A Chicago business license is required in addition to the state establishment license. License must be displayed in the salon and renewed every 2 years.

$250 every 2 years2–4 weeks
Official government source
2

City of Chicago Building Permit (for salon buildout)

Any construction, renovation, or change of use for a hair salon in Chicago requires permits from the Chicago Department of Buildings. This includes plumbing for shampoo bowls, electrical upgrades, and ventilation work.

Varies by scope (typically $500–$10,000+)4–12 weeks
Official government source

Illinois State Requirements

3 requirements
1

Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) — Cosmetology Salon License

Required by Illinois law (225 ILCS 410) before any cosmetology services (hair cutting, coloring, chemical treatments, styling) can be performed for compensation. The salon must be inspected by IDFPR before the license is issued. License is location-specific and must be renewed every 2 years.

$40 (initial salon license fee); $40 (renewal every 2 years)4–8 weeks after application and IDFPR inspection
Official government source
2

Illinois IDFPR Cosmetologist License (per cosmetologist)

Each cosmetologist working in the salon must hold a valid Illinois Cosmetologist license from IDFPR. Requires completion of a 1,500-hour cosmetology program and passing the state board exam. Renewed every 2 years.

$40 (initial license); $40 (renewal every 2 years)4–8 weeks after passing state board exam
Official government source
3

Illinois Department of Revenue — Sales Tax Registration

Required to collect and remit Illinois sales tax on retail product sales in the salon. Hair services are generally not taxable in Illinois; retail product sales are subject to the combined 10.25% Chicago sales tax rate. Register free with the Illinois DOR.

FreeImmediate (online via MyTax Illinois)
Official government source

Federal Requirements

1 requirement
1

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

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

FreeImmediate (online application)
Official government source

Official Sources

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