Nail Salon Permit Requirements in Chicago, IL

1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

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

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online application)

   Free

   Immediate (online application)

2. OSHA Hazard Communication Standard Compliance

   Nail salons handle hazardous chemicals. OSHA requires Safety Data Sheets, employee training, and adequate ventilation (29 CFR 1910.1200).

   Official government source

   Free (compliance requirement)·Implement before opening

   Free (compliance requirement)

   Implement before opening

1. Illinois Division of Professional Regulation — Cosmetology Salon License

   All nail salons in Illinois must be licensed by the Illinois Division of Professional Regulation (under the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation — IDFPR). The cosmetology salon license requires an application, payment of fees, and an on-site inspection to verify compliance with the Illinois Cosmetology Act (225 ILCS 410). Salons must meet ventilation, sanitation, and equipment standards.

   Official government source

   $40 application fee·4–8 weeks (includes application processing and inspection)

   $40 application fee

   4–8 weeks (includes application processing and inspection)

2. Individual Nail Technician License (per employee)

   Every nail technician working in the salon must hold a valid Illinois Nail Technician License issued by IDFPR. This requires completing an approved cosmetology/nail technology program, passing a written exam, and paying a license fee.

   Official government source

   $40 application fee per technician·4–8 weeks (after completing required education and passing exam)

   $40 application fee per technician

   4–8 weeks (after completing required education and passing exam)

3. Illinois Retailer's Occupation Tax (Sales Tax) Registration

   Required if selling retail products in your salon. Register with the Illinois Department of Revenue (MyTax Illinois). The combined sales tax rate in Chicago is 10.25%.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online application)

   Free

   Immediate (online application)

1. City of Chicago — Limited Business License (Retail/Services)

   Nail salons in Chicago require a Limited Business License from the City of Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP). This is the standard business operating license for personal services establishments. Apply online through the Chicago Business Direct portal or in person at a City Hall business center.

   Official government source

   $250–$330 biennial (every 2 years, depending on square footage)·2–4 weeks

   $250–$330 biennial (every 2 years, depending on square footage)

   2–4 weeks

2. Chicago Department of Buildings — Certificate of Occupancy

   A Certificate of Occupancy (CO) from the Chicago Department of Buildings is required to confirm the space is approved for personal services use. New build-outs or change-of-use require a building permit, a zoning review, and an inspection. Contact at 312-744-3449.

   Official government source

   $150–$800 (varies by scope of work)·2–8 weeks

   $150–$800 (varies by scope of work)

   2–8 weeks

3. Chicago Department of Public Health — Body Establishments License

   Nail salons in Chicago require a Nail Salon License (Body Establishments category) from the Chicago Department of Public Health. This involves a health and sanitation inspection to verify compliance with Chicago Board of Health regulations, including ventilation, sterilization, and chemical storage requirements.

   Official government source

   $375/year (approximately)·2–4 weeks

   $375/year (approximately)

   2–4 weeks

Official Sources

• Illinois IDFPR — Cosmetology
• City of Chicago — BACP Business Licenses
• City of Chicago — Department of Buildings
• City of Chicago — Department of Public Health
• Illinois Department of Revenue — MyTax Illinois

Related Guides