Landscaping Permit Requirements in Chicago, IL

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

$300 -- $800 3–8 weeks depending on services offered 7 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

Required for all landscaping businesses operating in the City of Chicago. Issued by the Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP). License must be posted at the place of business and renewed every 2 years.

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

City of Chicago Tree Trimming License (if trimming trees on public property)

Contractors who trim or remove trees on City of Chicago property, in the public right-of-way, or on parkways must obtain a Tree Trimming License from the Chicago Department of Streets and Sanitation, Bureau of Forestry.

$150/year2–4 weeks
Official government source

Illinois State Requirements

3 requirements
1

Illinois Department of Agriculture — Pesticide Operator License (if applying pesticides)

Landscaping businesses in Illinois that apply pesticides for hire must obtain a Commercial Pesticide Operator License from the Illinois Department of Agriculture. Requires passing a core exam and a specific category exam (e.g., Category 6 for Ornamental and Turf).

$100/year (license fee) + exam fees4–8 weeks
Official government source
2

Illinois Department of Revenue — Sales Tax Registration

Landscaping services in Illinois may be subject to the Retailers' Occupation Tax depending on the nature of services (particularly services involving materials/installation). You must register with the Illinois DOR to be prepared to collect and remit tax. Chicago's combined sales tax rate is 10.25%.

FreeImmediate (online via MyTax Illinois)
Official government source
3

Illinois Secretary of State — Business Entity Registration

If operating as an LLC or corporation, register with the Illinois Secretary of State. Sole proprietors using a trade name should file an Assumed Business Name with the Cook County Clerk.

$150 (LLC Articles of Organization); $30 (Assumed Business Name, Cook County)5–10 business days (online for LLC)
Official government source

Federal Requirements

2 requirements
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
2

EPA Pesticide Compliance (if using regulated chemicals)

Landscaping businesses using EPA-registered pesticides must comply with FIFRA requirements and EPA Worker Protection Standards.

Free (compliance requirement, no permit fee)Ongoing compliance
Official government source

Official Sources

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