Plumbing Contractor Permit Requirements in Chicago, IL
Complete permit and license guide for starting a plumbing contractor in Chicago, Cook County, Illinois.
Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .
Chicago / Cook County Requirements
3 requirementsCity of Chicago Plumbing Contractor License
Chicago requires a separate City of Chicago Plumbing Contractor License issued by the Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP). This is distinct from any state license. The qualifying plumber must hold a City of Chicago Master Plumber License. Apply through the city's eBusiness portal. A $10,000 surety bond is required.
City of Chicago Master Plumber License
Chicago has its own Master Plumber exam and license, separate from any state license. To qualify as the responsible party for a plumbing contracting business, one owner or employee must hold a City of Chicago Master Plumber License. This requires passing a Chicago-specific exam, 5 years of plumbing experience, and a criminal background check.
Chicago Business License (General)
All businesses operating in Chicago must obtain a general business license from BACP in addition to any specialty licenses.
Illinois State Requirements
2 requirementsIllinois Plumbing License (Outside Chicago)
Illinois requires a state plumbing license issued by the Illinois Department of Public Health for plumbing work outside the City of Chicago. However, Chicago operates under a home-rule system and has its own licensing requirements that supersede the state license for work within city limits. Contractors working both inside and outside Chicago must hold both licenses.
Illinois Business Entity Registration (if applicable)
LLCs and corporations must register with the Illinois Secretary of State.
Federal Requirements
1 requirementEIN (Employer Identification Number)
Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS.
Official Sources
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