Business Services

Businesses occupying commercial space in Oak Park, including those licensed by the state or other entities, must register with Business Services. Licenses must be renewed annually by March 31. Late fees and citations may apply to late payments. 

• Click here(PDF, 224KB) to see a list of businesses that have received a business license from the Village and opened in 2021-2025.
• (PDF, 171KB)

The Business Services office is responsible for registering home occupations and the Zoning Officer ensures compliance with code standards.

Home occupations are permitted in any dwelling unit as an accessory use within the limits of standards found in the Zoning Ordinance. Home occupations standards allow only one non-family member employee and only if off-street parking is provided for that employee. No home occupation can occupy more than 25 percent of the total heated floor area in the dwelling unit where it is located.

Some types of uses do not qualify as a home occupation due to the potential impact on a residential area. Prohibited home occupations include manufacturing, animal hospitals, barber shops and beauty salons, clinics, repair shops and restaurants. There is no charge to obtain a Village home occupation business license. 

Under Illinois law, liquor is a controlled substance and its distribution is strictly regulated. A license is required to sell or serve liquor in Oak Park. Special events also require licenses to serve liquor.

All license applications are considered by the Liquor Control Review Board and the Village Board. Detailed information on licensing process, which can take up to four months, is available from Business Services.

In addition to the standard general business license, the Business Services office issues a number of miscellaneous types of licenses, including for chauffeurs and cab drivers.

Anyone engaging in peddling, commercial soliciting or itinerant vending must obtain a license through Business Services. In addition to business licensing information required by Village Code, the applicant also must provide specific, detailed information to ensure the legitimacy of the operation, preclude deceptive practices and information for follow-up if there is a problem.

These regulations are in place to protect the community. If you are suspicious about persons soliciting or peddling, contact the Police Department or the Business Services office to verify that the person is engaging in a licensed activity.

You also may request no-soliciting stickers from Business Services to place on or near the main entrance of your property.